The Racing Pigeon International Event will return to Doncaster Racecourse this autumn, bringing fanciers, exhibitors and visitors from across Britain and Europe to the city.

The event will take place on Saturday 31 October 2026, opening at 9.15am and continuing until 4pm.

Organised by The Racing Pigeon, the gathering is expected to feature trade stands, specialist exhibitors, champion birds, auctions and demonstrations for experienced fanciers and people who are new to the hobby.

What visitors can expect

Organisers say businesses and exhibitors from the UK and continental Europe will attend, giving visitors an opportunity to see new products, equipment and services used in the care, training and racing of pigeons.

Successful fanciers will also be present, while displays of racing pigeons and auctions of selected birds are planned during the day. The programme is intended to cover the practical side of the sport as well as its long-established community and competitive traditions.

The Doncaster event regularly attracts visitors from across the UK and Ireland, as well as countries including Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany. Its location at the racecourse gives the show space for both the exhibition and the large number of people expected to attend.

A hobby with a long history

Racing pigeons have been bred for generations for their ability to return home over long distances. Modern fanciers combine that tradition with careful animal husbandry, training schedules and timing technology.

Clubs and shows remain an important meeting point for people involved in the sport. Alongside competition, they give members a place to exchange advice, compare methods and introduce younger or newer participants to the hobby.

The Racing Pigeon, which is organising the Doncaster event, says it has served the pigeon-fancying community for more than 125 years.

Event details

  • Event: The Racing Pigeon International Event
  • Date: Saturday 31 October 2026
  • Time: 9.15am to 4pm
  • Venue: Doncaster Racecourse

Anyone considering attending should check the organiser’s official website for the latest visitor information before travelling.

The event information and photographs were supplied by The Racing Pigeon. Photographs are published with the organiser’s permission.