One year it was flashing light jewellery, another it was a giant blow up hammer, and inflatable barbarian swords appear to be the article of choice this time around, judging from sideshow alley.

But today, umbrellas would have been the hot seller as damp conditions returned to the Ballarat Show Day.

If the patrons were a trifle soggy, the numbers remained pretty solid according to Ballarat Show director Gerard Ballinger.

"They're down on last year but last year was a bumper year due to the weather," Mr Ballinger said.

"We plan for these things because you can't have perfect weather every year. We've made provisions for indoor activities such as the animal pavilion, youth pavilion and entertainment in the marquee. 

"It's really good that it is the public holiday. Even with the weather the numbers show we've still got the support of the community with the holiday.  

"There are challenges with any big event. We've had to reschedule some events but the Ballarat Show always comes up really well." 

The wood chop demonstration has been delayed until today due to safety reason associated with the damp conditions, but elsewhere everyone got on with the job of enjoying the show. Cattle were judged, rides were ridden and the cats in the animal pavilion did a lot of sleeping. 

Judging by some of the children on the giant inflatable slide there might have been a few that preferred the slippery conditions. 

The show is open again on Saturday, with the popular fireworks display in the evening. The final day of the show is Sunday.