Queen City Ex announces more additions for 2023

Flo Rida is coming to Saskatchewan.

The rapper was announced Tuesday as another headliner at the Queen City Ex, Aug. 2-6 at REAL District.

REAL District president and CEO Tim Reid said he’s looking forward to the Flo Rida concert on Aug. 3.

“It’s not easy to find top-tier entertainment particularly that meets the routing schedule, so when we were able to secure Flo Rida, I think it’s going to be a phenomenal Thursday night,” Reid said during a media conference.

The entertainment lineup for the week now includes:

Aug. 2: Regina Symphony Orchestra and fireworks.

Aug. 3: Flo Rida.

Aug. 4: Boyz II Men.

Aug. 5: James Barker Band.

Aug. 6: Finger 11 and Sebastian Bach from Skid Row.

The Queen City Ex will be bringing back some fan favourites, like an eating competition featuring world champion Joey Chestnut, as well as the rodeo and the food.

Reid also announced five new rides will be at the fairgrounds this year. Three will be on the main midway and two will be in the kids’ area.

“Every year, people ask us if there’s going to be any new rides and for too many years, we’ve (had) to say no. We haven’t (added new rides) for a variety of reasons,” Reid said.

One of the new rides will be X-Drive.

Reid said while he’s not a fan of rides, he’s still going to give them a whirl.

“I’m excited to try them but I won’t enjoy it like some other people,” he said.

The CFL’s Saskatchewan Roughriders are once again partnering with the fair. Anyone who has a ticket to the Roughriders’ game against the Ottawa Redblacks on Aug. 6 will get into the Ex for free.

Reid says the important thing about the Queen City Ex is that it’s for all ages.

“It’s just one of those events that for gate admission you can have incredible value, and so I think people should go because it’s a perfect way to spend a day,” he said.

Advanced tickets for the Ex are to go on sale May 16, and advance gate passes will be available on June 20.