[6] The most numerous exhibits are traction engines, tractors and farm machinery, but there are also sections for classic cars and commercial vehicles, working shire horses, rustic crafts, 'bygones' displays, and more.

The funfair has traditional rides such as gallopers and steam boats, as well as modern ones like the "World Fair Wheel" which was sited in Manchester for the millennium.

[citation needed] The show regularly attracts around 200,000 visitors,[7] and there can be 30,000 people on site, making the fair the fifth largest population centre in Dorset, after Bournemouth, Poole, Weymouth and Christchurch (the population of the historic town of Dorchester being only half that number).

[8] A speciality of the show is the display of traction engines and steam rollers performing the work for which they were designed.

The main arena of the show is purposely sited on the slope of a hill to allow both steam- and internal combustion-powered machinery to demonstrate their capacity for heavy load hauling.

The station, which is also streamed on the internet, covers show news and views, weather and other relevant information with plenty of listener dedications and a format of "Vintage Hits".

2009 saw the start of a new event called Steam Sounds that showcases acts from around the local area on the outdoor stage.

A roster of participating individuals taken from the first event's souvenir program and guide in September 1969 includes: The list is as follows; President; Mr G. J. Romanes, M.A, M.R.C.S, D.O.M.S.