The Keystone Centre has been the hotspot for a chilly spring break for thousands of families this week at the annual Royal Manitoba Winter Fair. Today, Friday, is Multicultural Day at the Fair!
Between horse competitions and cattle shows, family entertainment and kids' rides, dog shows and the favorite foods at the Fair it's been a bustling week for visitors!
The annual event is hosted by the Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba and takes place each year during Spring Break. The Fair dates back to 1906 when it was known as the Brandon Fair. The name change came in 1970 when a visit from Queen Elizabeth II deemed the Brandon Fair with Royal Patronage, renaming the event the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair. There is only one other Fair in Canada with Royal designation, and that is the Toronto Royal.
Provincial Ex President and Co-chair of the Fair, Clint Swain, says every year they look at how they can diversity the event, to bring in new entertainment and activities.
"We look at all the different avenues to bring more families in. Not everyone may have an Ag background and so if there is a little bit for everyone at our event, while showcasing agriculture it's a win-win situation for us," shares Swain.
The diverse culture of Westman and the province as a whole brings a unique opportunity for the organizing committee.
"As our community evolved culturally it's really fantastic to see families new to Brandon and come to the Fair," explains Swain. "You know, this might be their first time seeing the heavy horses or the jumping horses. So, it's really phenomenal and if we can see the smile on their faces, then we know we're doing our job right!"
Some highlights to today and tomorrow's evening shows will be the Manitoba Mounted Shooters, and so much more. "As the week goes on the events get bigger and we expect to see the stands full!"
Operations Manager and interim General Manager, Kristen Laing agrees. Each day features new activities and performances with the grand finale taking place on Saturday.
"We experience people from all across Canada, whether they're exhibitors, or patrons that come through the gates to take in any part of our event," shares Laing. "We have world class show jumping that takes place across the entire week and then we end of the week with our Grand Prix, which ends off a huge week of jumping!"
There are only 2 days left of Fair, today and tomorrow, with evening shows starting at 7:00 pm at the Westoba Place Arena. Opening Ceremonies begin at 6:30 pm.
For more on the schedule of events, please visit the Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba website and go to the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair page under the Events tab ... or click HERE!
Please listen to what's in store on Saturday with Kristen Laing below!