March 20, 2015
Manitobans Invited to Connect with Farmers During Two Upcoming Agricultural Fairs
This spring, rural and urban Manitoba families are invited to explore the vibrant and innovative world of agriculture first-hand by attending the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair in Brandon, and the Discover Agriculture in the City Fair in Winnipeg, Agriculture, Food and Rural Development Minister Ron Kostyshyn announced today.
“The Royal Manitoba Winter Fair and Discover Agriculture in the City are annual traditions for many families because of the exciting and educational events, competitions, displays and other interactive activities,” said Minister Kostyshyn. “These two fairs are a great opportunity to learn about agriculture and rural Manitoba, to discover the many employment opportunities in the agricultural sector and to see first-hand why Manitoba is a world leader in agricultural innovation.”
The Royal Manitoba Winter Fair is presented by the Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba and is the only fair in Western Canada designated as royal by Queen Elizabeth II. It takes place from March 30 to April 4 at the Keystone Centre in Brandon.
“At the Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba, we are proud to produce the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair, which alone has an economic impact of $10.7 million in the city and province every year,” said Ron Kristjansson, general manager of the Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba. “We are grateful for the commitment to signature events like the Manitoba Cup that allow us to continue to be successful.”
The Manitoba government is proud to support the Manitoba Cup, a horse-jumping competition that takes place on March 31, by providing a $20,000 annual grant.
Discover Agriculture in the City is a free two-day event at The Forks Market that offers numerous activities for the entire family. Kids can see where their food comes from, and adults can meet local farmers, find new recipes, learn about food safety and much more. Visitors are also encouraged to learn how science and research helps make our food safe, healthy and delicious.
“The Discover Agriculture in the City committee is dedicated to increasing awareness of agriculture to all Manitobans and this event is a perfect example of this,” stated Johanne Ross, committee member. “This is important as agriculture is such an integral part of Manitoba’s culture and an important part of everyday life. Agriculture in the City truly engages visitors through interactive, hands-on displays and presentations that get them up close and personal with agriculture. We look forward to interacting with hundreds of visitors over the two days.”
Minister Kostyshyn noted that now more than ever, Manitobans are interested in providing their families with healthy, locally sourced food. These two popular events are a perfect way to learn more.
The Manitoba government supports other annual events presented by the Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba including the Manitoba Summer Fair and the Manitoba Ag Ex. The provincial government also supports 59 agricultural societies in rural communities throughout Manitoba.
Last year, more than 108,000 people attended the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair. For a schedule of events and more information, visit www.royalmanitobawinterfair.com.
For more information about Agriculture in the City and a schedule of events, visit www.aginthecity.ca.
For more information about initiatives relating to local food, visit www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture.
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