The first half of October signals the real start of spring on the Fleurieu, with school holidays and the country agricultural shows making it a fun fortnight for everyone.

First to kick off is the Yankalilla Show on Saturday 5 October, from 9am to 5pm at the corner of Jervois Road and South Road.

Special attractions for 2019 include Radicool Reptiles – a hands on experience with a range of reptile friends at the Normanville Natural Resource Centre marquee; performer Katie Wright Dynamite; and James’ Travelling Magic Show.

Old favourites returning include draught horses, Yalkin Spanish dancing horses and the Fleurieu antique machinery display.

Make it a great long weekend at the Strathalbyn Show on 6 and 7 October.

The Horses in Action event is on Sunday at the Polo and Recreation Grounds on the Callington Road, while the main show is on Monday between 10am and 4.30pm at the Strathalbyn Sporting Oval on Coronation Road.

This year’s show features two new sections - Home Brew & Beverages and Pygmy/Miniature Goats – as well as Mickster the Trickster Roving Magic, Stilt Walkers, Circus Sessions Acts, Wilbur’s Wildlife native animals, Ubute Marquees Childrens Games on the oval, Cool 4Kids fun and the Grand Parade at 3pm.

The iconic Port Elliot Show rounds out the Fleurieu show experience on 12 and 13 October. It’s open from 9am to 5pm on Saturday and 9am to 4pm on Sunday on Cameron Street, off Tottenham Court Road.

Saturday sees the Cowgirl with Wings trick riding show appear for the first time – Why Ride When You Can Fly?, as well as James’ Travelling Magic Show. Wood craftsman Stan Ceglinski returns, along with bands, dance displays and stilt walkers.

Saturday also features a Ute Muster and the inaugural Dog Show. The main attraction on Sunday is Horses in Action and there is also Circus Elements with the Griffini Show and a kids’ workshop.

For more information on the Fleurieu Country Agricultural Shows, visit their websites – Yankalilla Show, Strathalbyn Show and Port Elliot Show.