The Penzance and District Agricultural Association was formed in 1798. The show was held at various locations in the Penzance area including the Recreation ground in Penzance in 1905 and Nancealverne in 1923.

There was a report in the Cornish Telegraph dated 25th May 1927 following a successful show again at Nancealverne when the sun shone brightly on the event. There were classes for cattle, horses, donkeys, pigs, poultry, pigeons and cage birds. The “Hurdle” jumping caused great excitement and was worthy of several column inches! There were also classes for butter and cream.

In those days the show was a big social occasion with a lunch served at 1pm in the marquee with guest speakers giving their judgment of the day's events and the future of the agricultural industry.

With the foot and mouth outbreak in 2001 and bad weather in 2002 the annual event was not held and the committee disbanded. However, a new committee was formed under the banner of Penzance & District Agricultural Society with Tim Le Grice as President and Debbie Tresidder as Chairman early in 2003. A small show was held at Treriefe Park in late summer which helped to gain the funds and momentum to stage a full schedule of events at Badgers Cross in 2004.

From 2005 the show has remained at Badgers Cross by kind permission of Ivor Phillips who has been a great supporter. The schedule has evolved, having to drop some classes which were not so well supported in favour of others. The committee has endeavoured to include events for all standards and ages which has proved successful. There has also been a very successful fun dog show since 2004 and a children's art competition.

The committee is always grateful for the help and support from the local community that ensures the show continues. Anyone who wishes to help should contact any member of the committee.