Every summer, Debrecen (Debrecen) transforms into Hungary’s agricultural capital, welcoming thousands to the Farmer Expo – the country’s leading international agriculture and food industry fair. From August 28-30, 2025, the University of Debrecen (Debreceni Egyetem) Campus on Böszörményi Avenue becomes the epicenter of innovation, tradition, and rural spectacle.
A Meeting Place for Innovators and Tradition
The Farmer Expo is not just a giant trade show – it is the premier forum where Hungarian and international companies, family farms, artisans, and professional organizations gather to showcase their products and share expertise. Alongside state-of-the-art agricultural machinery and breeding innovations, the expo is a haven for visitors seeking unique, locally crafted food products. Rows of handmade cheeses, smoked meats, jams, and homegrown fruits invite tasting – all with the assurance of quality and authenticity.
A Storied Venue with Deep Roots
Since 1993, the University of Debrecen (Debreceni Egyetem) Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences – now known simply as the Böszörményi Campus – has hosted this event. With more than 140 years of history, it has become one of Hungary’s foremost scientific centers for agriculture and rural development. In addition, the campus is surrounded by parklands and green spaces, making every stroll between the animal pavilions and conference halls a pleasant escape into nature.
Highlight: HORTICO and Breeding Shows
Launched in 2006, the HORTICO Vegetable-Fruit-Horticultural Fair became an instant success, providing an important platform for the gardening sector. Now it runs simultaneously with the main event, highlighting the latest innovations and research in horticulture each year.
Livestock enthusiasts will not be disappointed. The Farmer Expo is an official breeding animal showcase accredited by the Hungarian Livestock Breeders Association (Magyar Állattenyésztők Szövetsége), and the European-standard shows of cattle, horses, pigs, and sheep have become crowd favorites. Judges assess Limousin, Blonde d’Aquitaine, and Charolais breeds, while horse presentations and pony competitions keep the exhibition ring lively.
Conferences, Challenges, and Practical Demonstrations
Each year, the Farmer Expo addresses an important agricultural topic with its signature conference, bringing together Hungarian experts and international authorities. From climate change adaptation for fruit growers, to stress management in dairy production, to the future of pig farming, specialists discuss the issues shaping the industry’s future.
The event goes far beyond lectures. It is filled with live demonstrations, business networking events, and hands-on displays. Horses leap barriers in show jumping competitions, sheep and goat breeders compete in rigorous judging, and crowds gather for cow-milking and shearing demonstrations. Horse-drawn parade finales, called Fogatparade (Fogatparádé), close each evening with a flourish.
Gourmet Corner: Handmade and Homegrown
Visitors don’t just watch or listen – they taste. Family farms and small producers from across Hungary bring artisan goods that are often unavailable elsewhere. Expect to fill your basket with trustworthy products, each with its own story and a familiar face behind it.
Event Timetable: An Unmissable Lineup
**Thursday, August 28** opens with an official ceremony led by the Minister of Agriculture, followed by forums on the current state and future of Hungarian farming. From mid-morning until late afternoon, show jumping, livestock judging (including Limousin, Charolais, sheep, and goats), and horticultural conferences take center stage, with special events addressing challenges in the sheep sector and coping with climatic stress.
**Friday, August 29** begins with awards for cattle, sheep, goats, poultry, rabbits, and horses. Themed roundtables explore the future of pig farming in a changing world and adaptive management in dairy. Horse skill competitions and breed showcases continue, while practical demonstrations in cattle and sheep assessment provide insight into industry best practices. The day concludes with a dog show, milking demonstrations, and the ever-popular horse parade.
**Saturday, August 30** is filled with excitement and competition: Debrecen’s Grand Prix features show jumping at 41 inches (105 cm) and 43 inches (110 cm), highlights women in animal husbandry, showcases beef and dairy breeds, and includes a lively series of horse and pony parades. The final events feature cow hoof care tutorials and the spectacular “Stallion Parade” (Ménparádé).
Tickets, Pricing, and Practical Information
Admission is $11 for adults, $5.50 for students and pensioners, and free for children under 14. Car parking is also $11 per day. The organizers reserve the right to change program details and timings.
If you love farming, food, or simply want a taste of country life – with a hearty serving of innovation and world-class livestock – put the Farmer Expo Debrecen 2025 on your calendar.
