Queen City Ex offering free entry Aug. 1 to Riders ticket holders

Those planning to attend Queen City Ex should circle Aug. 1 on their calendars.

Organizers are promising a jam-packed day of entertainment thanks to a partnership with the Saskatchewan Roughriders.

That day, a ticket to the CFL game against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats will also include free admission into exhibition the grounds.

“Three concerts — Tom Cochrane, half-time show and then we’ve got April Wine at the end of it. In terms of music, it might be one of the best days of music and value you can have,” said Tim Reid, CEO of Regina Exhibition Association Limited (REAL).

Other performers at this year’s fair include Nelly, Paul Brandt, O-Town and 98 Degrees.

The attractions will also include professional rodeo and an eSports tournament.

During a kickoff event at Confederation Park outside Mosaic Stadium on Wednesday morning, Reid spoke about needing to renew the sense that Queen City Ex is Saskatchewan’s fair.

He said the event needed reinvestment, so the board of directors was asked for more money for artists and entertainment.

The result was a loaded schedule with something for everybody, he said.

“Between rodeo and entertainment and partnership with the Riders and eSports, I think we’ve made a real shift in the value proposition around this and that’s what the fair’s always been about. Something for everybody, great value for money,” Reid said.

Beforehand, the opening day admission was set at $3 after Regina mayor Michael Fougere was asked to play Plinko, a game featured on The Price is Right to determine the price.

The Queen City Ex runs from July 31 to Aug. 4.