Organisers of the new “Ag Show” were ecstatic at the turnout for day two, with the grounds at the Botanical Gardens packed to capacity for the revived event.

While it has evolved from the Agricultural Exhibitions of yesteryear, new generations got acquainted with the usual farmyard favourites, and home-grown entertainment was a prominent feature, with plenty of music from local artists.

“The participation by young people is phenomenal, and we’ve had hundreds of volunteers,” enthused Kim White, a member of the organisation team who called attendance “unbelievable”.

David Lopes, chairman of the AG Show Ltd, conceded that the public-private partnership that made the show possible had aroused scepticism from some quarters.

With the Bermuda Government teamed up with the operating charity, there were even suggestions that the show — which was skipped last year for financial reasons — should be boycotted.

“We’ve got a few naysayers, but as you can see today, the population is very happy that it’s back,” Mr Lopes said, ascribing any negativity over the show’s financing to the island’s political divide.

He recalled the opening comments for the three-day show by Craig Cannonier, the Minister of Public Works.

“He said that we have come to a point in Bermuda where we need to put differences aside, and do what’s best for Bermudians,” Mr Lopes said. “This is a prime example.”

The show resumes today at 8am, including beloved fixtures such as show jumping and the goat show. It closes with a free soca concert, from 6pm to 8pm.

“One of the greatest successes has been the entertainment,” Mr White noted. “The show has come back with a bang.”

About the only category that was slightly down was the flowers, he said — “but that’s because of the weather”.

Both organisers acknowledged that a great deal of hard work went into restoring the show, as well as sponsorship, including from anonymous supporters, along with the army of volunteers. Mr Lopes said not all the same backers would be on board for the 2017 show, but the group was determined to keep the show going.

“We’re always looking for ways to improve it,” added Mr White. “We need to make sure that this doesn’t fail to happen again.”

• Today’s visitors can expect a lot of company and should plan for potential poor cellular telephone reception.