Agribition to open its doors for the first time in two years

The largest livestock show in Canada will open again Monday morning after being put on hold for a year because of COVID-19.

This year is also the 50th show for Agribition, something the show’s CEO, Chris Lane, said they’re all excited for.

“We’ve got two years of pent-up excitement and demand here at Agribition, and I think within our exhibitor community,” Lane said. “In the farming and ranching world, these events play a pretty important role.

“Not only are they important for business and promoting Canadian agricultural products around the world, but they’re also a pretty big social event. There’s lots of catching up, It feels like one big family has come to town when Agribition is on.”

Normally there are a lot of international visitors at the show, and while some couldn’t come this year because of travel restrictions, Lane said there are still well over 100 international buyers registered for the show.

“It probably won’t be as much as it has been in other years but it’s still a strong showing and obviously we’ll be ready to welcome those folks,” said Lane.

The week starts off with a pancake breakfast on Monday followed by free admission all day.

In honour of the 50th show, all of the national breed shows are at Agribition, but Lane said it is a big deal for the cattle world.

“It means the quality of cattle that you’ll see in the show ring at Agribition is unprecedented and unparalleled,” explained Lane.

He said there’s also a lot in terms of entertainment, including having a free skate for people at one of the hockey rinks, jousting and sword fighting, and the rodeo. Lane said there will also be a barbecue competition on Friday and Saturday.

“I expect it’ll be a pretty tasty Agribition,” said Lane.

The show will be operating under the province’s public health orders, so masks will be required in public spaces and proof of vaccination or proof of a negative test in the last 72 hours will be required for entry.