Armidale and New England Show Society president Kelso Looker says hundreds of people are tipped to pass through the turnstiles.

Fruit and vegetables displays fill the pavilions, along with arts and craft. Outside, there are equestrian events, a tug-o-war, demolition derby and food stalls.

A bar returns to the show, for the first time in 15 years.

Flick through the photos taken on the show's opening day.