The Baler Challenge is Back in the Free State - 28 January

Get ready for some serious farm action, because FarmSpace is bringing back the popular Baler Challenge for 2026. This is where speed, power, and precision meet for an agricultural showdown to see which baler truly takes the crown. If you've ever argued about which brand is the best, now is the time to find out.

The big day is Wednesday, 28 January 2026.

Where the Action Is

The event is taking place at Valtrac Parys, in the Free State. The location is right there on the R59, so it’s easy enough to find. The challenge is scheduled to run from 07:30 in the morning until 13:30. That’s a good few hours of watching the machines get put through their paces.

What to Expect on the Day

It’s not just about watching hay get compressed; the organisers have sorted out a whole lekker day of entertainment:

• The main event is, of course, seeing which baler performs the best.

• There will be exhibitors and demonstrations to check out.

• For the punters, there’s live entertainment.

And no agricultural event is complete without proper catering: food and drinks will be available, including a beer tent. So, you can grab a bite and a cold one while you watch the balers battle it out.

Tickets and Contact Details

If you're planning on going, it is far more sensible to buy your ticket online. You can get in for only R100.00 if you buy your ticket ahead of time. Online ticket available on FarmSpace website. If you decide to chance it on the day, the price jumps to R300.00 at the gate.

For any questions about the event, you can contact Angeliqa. She can be reached on her mobile at

078-381-5298 or via email at angeliqa@farmspace.co.za.

It sounds like a proper boere showdown in Parys, so “save the date”.