Let's face it. Times are tough for some of us right now, especially with the rising cost of living.
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So here's a guide to make the most out of spending Saturday at Maitland Show without forking out a cent - after you have paid the entry fee.
Now, on the entry fee, go online and buy your ticket because they are slightly cheaper. Even saving a buck or two is still a win when you're on a budget.
You'll save $5 if you buy a family pass - for two adults and two children - online through the Maitland Showground website.
An adult ticket is $18 each, saving $2, a pensioner or concession is $13.50, saving $1.50, and a child between 5 and 15 is $9, saving $1.
If you have a child under the age of 5 they will get in for free.
When you get there, save yourself the $5 fee to park in the grounds and park along the street.
Sideshow Alley will have you opening your wallet frequently, especially if you have kids, so bypass it for the pavilions.
Take in the photography, arts and craft, baking and horticulture.
Once you have done that head to the animal nursery and take some cute pics and then go into the poultry pavilion, where you'll also find the pigeons who are vying for a ribbon.
Then wander down to the cattle judging ring and spend some time watching the action.
After all of that you'll probably be ready for a bite to eat and a refreshing drink. And that's when you'll find a nice spot to sit and eat the lunch you have brought with you. Don't forget to take an ice brick as it's supposed to be warm on Saturday.
There are lots of free demonstrations to enjoy as well, including a reptile show between 10am and 10.30am, a bee demonstration from 11.30am until noon - and 3pm to 3.30pm - and you can pat a pig between 10.30am and 11.30am, and noon and 1pm.
The boer goat competition kicks off at noon and runs until 4pm, the woodchop runs between 1pm and 4pm and the goat milking demonstration is between 1pm and 1.30pm.
Then it's time to kick back in the grandstand and watch the action in the centre ring.
Depending on what time you arrive, the horse events might still be going or they may have already finished.
The RM Williams Australian Stock Horse Flag Display is the first event after the equestrian. It will take to the stage at 2.45pm and again at 6.45pm.
This event will be at the Sydney Royal Easter Show later this year, so why not see it here and save yourself the cost of going to see it in Sydney.
The grand parade will take place at 3pm, followed by the official opening at 3.30pm and the tentpegging at 3.45pm, 5.20pm, 6.10pm and 7.15pm.
At some stage during your time in the grandstand you'll snack on the rest of the food and drinks you have brought with you.
The Hotwheels will take to the ring at 4.30pm and again at 5.45pm and 8pm.
The lawn mower racing will give you some excitement at 5pm and 6.30pm and the Wheelie Bin racing will offer a thrill at 5.20pm, 7pm and 7.45pm.
The Demolition Derby will perform at 8.30pm, followed by the fireworks at 9pm.
Then it's time to depart before the show closes at 10pm.
Click here for the full show program.
Click here for the showground map.
In other Maitland Show news:
Belinda-Jane Davis
Passionate about community news
Passionate about community news
