The Saskatoon Prairieland Park Corporation is excited to announce transformative updates to the flagship event, the Saskatoon EX. As the summer fair gears up to celebrate its 140th anniversary in 2025, it will mark this significant milestone with a historic change in scheduling. For the first time in decades, the festival will extend its duration, returning to an eight-day format. The 2025 Saskatoon EX will take place from Thursday, July 31, to Thursday, August 7, offering an expanded celebration for attendees.

The good news doesn’t stop there; Prairieland CEO Dan Kemppainen has another big announcement to make. “Prairieland has signed an exciting new five-year contract with North American Midway Entertainment (NAME). This means the Saskatoon EX will now get a full A-circuit midway with increased ridership capacity. Fairgoers that love the rides will see the benefits of this with an increase of over 33% capacity compared to the previous years,” says Kemppainen. Ultimately, this means guests of the Saskatoon EX will be able to go on more rides with shorter lineups
and enjoy larger thrill rides. “Over the next few years, Prairieland will be making improvements to the park to enhance the experience of fairgoers and year-round patrons alike, as we develop a master plan for the development of our property.”

The enthusiasm is mutual. “North American Midway Entertainment is proud to celebrate 20 incredible years with the Saskatoon EX, during which we’ve had the pleasure of entertaining over 4 million guests,” says Gregg “Scooter” Korek, Vice President – Client Relations at NAME. “We are excited about this new five-year contract and we look forward to bringing even more thrilling rides, exciting games, and unforgettable entertainment to the Saskatoon EX for many years to come.”

Longtime Signature Events Manager Susan Kuzma sees these changes as opportunities for everyone involved. “We are excited about the new exhibitors and food concessionaires that will become part of the Saskatoon EX as a result of this shift,” says Kuzma. “We are thrilled to welcome fans of the EX, loyal vendors, and dedicated staff to join us for ‘the 8 best days of summer’ in Saskatoon.”

Over the last several years, the Saskatoon EX has invested in upgraded security protocols to ensure safety for everyone. “Patrons are already familiar with the safety measures we’ve implemented in recent years to ensure a secure environment for everyone,” says Funmi Oyatogun, Director of Signature Events. “As we celebrate our 140th anniversary in 2025, we’re excited to enhance these efforts even further, ensuring a family-friendly experience where you can enjoy the event safely while navigating lines quickly and efficiently.”

Saskatoon, get ready to sparkle and shine this holiday season! Prairieland is excited to unveil the dates and theme for the much-anticipated 2024 Glow Saskatoon Holiday Light Festival, Merry Makers Market & Food Fair. From November 28 to December 28, 2024, Halls D & E at Prairieland will transform into a magical winter wonderland, inviting attendees to experience the enchantment of “Santa’s Lost Presents.”

This year’s theme promises a captivating adventure as guests help Santa save Christmas by uncovering the mystery of his missing presents amidst the dazzling light gardens. With endless  Instagrammable moments, families can enjoy a variety of attractions, including LED swings, colour-changing hopscotch, and an indoor playground for the little ones. Don’t miss the chance to ride  Glen the Glow-comotive, snap photos with roaming princesses, and meet the jolly man himself – Santa Claus!

Special theme nights add an extra dash of excitement and live holiday music by local artists will set the festive mood at the Dakota Dunes Entertainment Stage. The Merry Maker’s Market is the perfect place to browse for unique gifts from local artisans while the food fair offers a selection of delicious treats. Adults can indulge in festive cocktails at the Mistletoe Mini Bar, served in souvenir Glow Cups, perfect for sipping and strolling through the light gardens.

Glow Saskatoon offers Flex Tickets, ideal for gifting, allowing entry on any show date and time, providing ultimate flexibility for a personalized festive experience. The Family Pass offers a discounted rate for up to 2 adults and a combination of 3 children (4-12 yrs) or seniors (65+), with kids 3 and under admitted free. Take advantage of admission promotions for
family passes!

A portion of our tickets sales will be donated to the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation. Tickets are sold online by date and time or at the door. Once guests arrive, they can stay as long as they like to enjoy the festival. For tickets and more details, visit www.GlowYXE.com.

Saskatchewan Equine Expo to Return in 2026 with New Format and Focus on Community and Training

Prairieland Agriculture is thrilled to announce the return of the Saskatchewan Equine Expo. Set to take place over the Family Day weekend in February 2026, the expo will offer a unique three-day experience dedicated to equine skills development and training.

Building on the success of previous years, the 2026 show will introduce a fresh format that reflects the feedback from over 400 members of Saskatchewan’s equine community. The committee-supported event has listened to the voices of horse enthusiasts across the province and is excited to bring back the expo as a social and gathering time for all horse lovers.

With a focus on youth, the expo will offer a variety of activities and workshops designed to engage and educate the next generation of equestrians. However, the event will not overlook the needs of seasoned professionals. There will be ample professional development opportunities for all ages, ensuring that everyone from beginners to experienced riders and
horse owners can benefit from the wealth of knowledge on display.

The new format will feature an industry marketplace, providing a one-stop-shop for equine-related products, boutiques, and services. Visitors can expect to find everything from the latest in equine health and nutrition to innovative equipment and gear. Details will roll out in early-2025.

“We are excited to make this announcement and to bring the Saskatchewan Equine Expo back in a format that truly reflects the desires of our community,” said Leigh Ann Hurlburt, Ag Manager at Prairieland. “Our goal is to create an inclusive and educational environment where horse lovers of all ages can come together, share their passion, and learn from each other.”

The Saskatchewan Equine Expo is more than just a showcase of equine talent; it’s a celebration
of the equestrian culture and a testament to the strength and vibrancy of the equine
community in Saskatchewan.

About Prairieland Agriculture:
Prairieland Agriculture is a leading organization dedicated to promoting and supporting the
agricultural industry in Saskatchewan. Through events like the Saskatchewan Equine Expo,
Prairieland Agriculture aims to foster education, community, and innovation within the equine
sector.

The 2024 Prairieland Junior Ag Showcase was a huge success for 4-H members of the North West region of Saskatchewan

The Prairieland Ag Center was host to over 200 participants and spectators as the Prairieland Junior Ag Showcase was held for five full days.

This year’s event categories featured Light Horse, Dairy, Sheep, Beef Female, Team Grooming, Showmanship and Finished Beef competitions. The Showcase of Arts, where youth had the option to showcase their artistic skills outside of the show ring, was another great success!

The event concluded on Monday, July 8, with lots of excitement surrounding the annual 4-H Steer Sale.

Overall, the Junior Ag Showcase provides an opportunity to acknowledge the achievements and the successes of the 4-H Saskatchewan members, while commemorating their hard work and commitment to the program.

Prairieland remains committed to participating in the agricultural education of today’s youth.

Steer Sale Results:

Price: $6.00
Purchased By: Simplot

Reserve Grand Champion Steer: Haydyn. W, Monarch Multiple 4-H Club

Price: $4.25
Purchased By: FMC Canada
Sale Average: $4.37

A new era of entertainment unveiled

Saskatoon’s beloved entertainment extravaganza, the Saskatoon Entertainment Expo, has transformed into Pop Con YXE. This exciting change comes as part of a strategic rebranding effort led by Prairieland, the show’s owner and producer.

In 2020, Prairieland acquired the Saskatoon stop of the Saskatchewan Entertainment Expo, orchestrating a successful debut in the spring of 2022. As the owner, Prairieland is proudly committed to the growth of the con community and has sustained the show post-pandemic. Now, as we approach the 2025 season, the show is set to captivate audiences under its fresh identity, Pop Con YXE.

Retaining ownership, Prairieland’s Signature Events department will continue to spearhead the production, ensuring a seamless transition into this exhilarating new chapter of entertainment. Pop Con YXE promises to deliver the same magic and excitement that fans have come to expect, this time with a renewed spirit and energy. Stay tuned for bigger, better, and an unforgettable experience as we unveil a whole new world of entertainment at Pop Con YXE.

We look forward to welcoming you to the inaugural Pop Con YXE event!

The 10th Annual Saskatchewan Beef Expo is set to take place at the Prairieland Ag Center from April 2 – 4, 2024. This milestone event continues to uphold Prairieland’s commitment to supporting the growth and development of youth in agriculture. The Saskatchewan Beef Expo offers a unique opportunity for young cattle producers to enhance their knowledge and skills in various aspects of the industry.

Kirk Stierwalt, a long-time cattle operator and clinician from Leedey, Oklahoma, is this year’s featured clinician. Stierwalt will kick off the event with a series of demonstrations: Basics and Equipment, Clipping, and Grooming. On day two, he’s back to lead the hands-on clinic, where participants take what they learned from the demonstrations and put it into practice with Stierwalt’s guidance. Following the clinic, there will be a showmanship demonstration and show. These activities provide exhibitors with the opportunity to enhance their ability to present
an animal in the show ring.

Day Three features the Heifer and Steer Shows, where participants showcase their 2023 born heifer and market steer. The event will conclude by awarding the Grand Champion and Reserve
Grand Champion of each show. New this year, both Grand Champions will each receive a $250 scholarship that will go towards their post-secondary education.

Prairieland is proud to host this family-friendly event, shaping the future of the cattle industry and fostering a passion for agriculture among the next generation.

The annual Prairieland Youth Leadership Conference, held on February 3 and 4, 2024, was a huge success, with over 30 aspiring young leaders in agriculture competing for scholarships and developing their leadership skills throughout the weekend.

The conference was held at the World Trade Center Saskatoon at Prairieland and was packed with interactive activities, competitions, and workshops. The event started on Saturday, February 3, and came to an end on Sunday, February 4, with an awards banquet, where parents joined for dinner and scholarship presentation. The conference included a presentation from Jolene Watson of Clarity Coaching & Development. She provided participants with valuable insight on charismatic leadership focusing on communication style, leadership strategies, and effective listening.

Participants were divided into groups and tasked with formulating a debate on topics relevant to their lives, including voting age in Canada and grass-fed versus grain-fed beef. On Sunday morning, the groups went head-to-head while presenting their supporting evidence on their appointed topic and displayed rebuttals that exemplified the effective listening skills discussed
in their Saturday presentation.

Four judges were challenged to mark participants’ assignments and activities by observing them in a team situation as they worked. Here are the results:

First place and a $4,500 scholarship: Katelynn T., West PA 4-H Beef Club
Second place and a $3,000 scholarship: Shelby P., Saskatoon 4-H Beef Club
Third place and a $2,500 scholarship: Mara V., Springside 4-H Beef Club
Fourth place and a $1000 scholarship: Nicole W., Old Bone Trail Multiple 4-H Club
Fifth place and a $1,000 scholarhsip: Aiva B., Candiac 4-H Beef Club

Prairieland is proud to support youth in agriculture, and we extend our thanks to volunteers, staff, and sponsors who made the event possible.

Prairieland Junior Ag Showcase, in conjunction with the University of Saskatchewan Judging Team, presented the first-ever Dare To Judge youth agriculture competition on January 26-28, 2024. The Prairieland Ag Center was host to over 75 participants and spectators over the weekend.

Dare To Judge began on Friday, January 26, with the Judging Clinic, followed by the Saskatoon Regional 4-H Judging Competition qualifying event and the University of Saskatchewan Judging Team’s Annual Collegiate Judging Competition on Saturday, January 27. “Prairieland Agriculture was pleased to launch Dare To Judge and co-host this new competition with the University of Saskatchewan Judging Team,” said Prairieland Park Agriculture Manager, Leigh-Ann Hurlburt. “Merging the Saskatoon Regional 4-H Judging Competition with the Collegiate Judging Competition was an excellent way to bring together youth in agriculture and produce a great event.”

The event concluded on Sunday, January 28 with the Show Judging Competition, where competitors judged a class of four beef animals and delivered oral reasons in front of an audience. “Gaining experience behind the microphone provides our up-and-coming judges with helpful feedback and opportunities to improve their skills,” said Hurlburt.

Event Results

4-H Senior Division – 1st place: Hunter Reid, Rockin H Multiple Club
4-H Intermediate Division – 1st place: Heidi Zoerb, Vanscoy Multiple 4-H Club
4-H Junior Division – 1st place: Carsyn Pochipinski, Saskatoon 4-H Beef Club

Collegiate Competition Top 5
1st place: Chase Bruynooghe, University of Saskatchewan
2nd place: Quinten Albrecht, University of Saskatchewan
3rd place: Carmen White, University of Guelph
4th place: Kylie Willms, University of Saskatchewan
5th place: Cache Schiller, University of Saskatchewan

Show Judging Competition
4-H Division Winner: Tanner Lowe, Viscount 4-H Club
Collegiate Division Winner: Chase Bruynooghe, University of Saskatchewan

The recently concluded Western Canadian Crop Production Show, presented by Farm Credit Canada, showcased its unwavering leadership in the industry during its new 3-day format from January 9 to 11, 2024, at Prairieland in Saskatoon. In true Saskatchewan fashion, the prairies witnessed heavy snowfalls and frigid temperatures. However, efficient snow clearance by the City of Saskatoon and Prairieland equipment operators ensured seamless access for patrons attending the show.

The decision to transition to a 3-day format for the 2024 show stemmed from valuable feedback from past exhibitors. Prairieland Ag Manager Leigh Ann Hurlburt noted, “Dropping the half day at the start makes a big difference for many businesses involved. A number of them will be moving on Monday instead of the weekend.” This adjustment is expected to result in cost savings for businesses, with less staffing required over the weekend and throughout the week. Positive feedback received from exhibitors prompted the organizers to proceed with the new 3-day format.

The success of the event hinges on the meticulous curation of the trade show, boasting over 1,000 booth spaces across 250,000 square feet of sold-out trade show space. This year, 338 exhibitors, a slight increase from the previous year, engaged in numerous face-to-face interactions with current and potential clients, facilitating key buying decisions for the upcoming growing season.

The show recorded an impressive turnout of 15,500 patrons, offering the opportunity to delve into various topics at the Nufarm Information Theatre. This year saw an increased number of sessions, with industry-experts from the Ministry of Agriculture, Nufarm, the University of Saskatchewan, Corteva Agriscience, and the Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation, covering subjects such as remotely sense imagery, grasshoppers, weed management, and sustainability advances.

We also welcomed back the Saskatchewan Agricultural Hall of Fame as they announced the six inductees for 2024. A formal induction ceremony will take place at Prairieland on Saturday, April 13, 2024. For more information regarding the inductees, visit https://www.sahf.ca/inductees

New this year, show organizers introduced a competition to reward exhibitors who bring their creativity and ingenuity to the marketplace. A panel of real farmers evaluated nearly 20 applications, with the top three finalists presenting their innovations at the Nufarm Information Theatre Thursday morning. Results, announced Tuesday evening at the Barley Bash Exhibitor Mixer, can be seen here: cropproductionshow.com/innovation-award/

The winning didn’t stop there. A progressive 50/50 lottery was held during the show by members of 4-H Saskatchewan. The draw, held on Thursday at 3:30PM, saw a lucky winner claiming over $11,000 in winnings. The remainder of the proceeds will benefit Saskatchewan 4-H and Prairieland Agriculture youth-in-ag programs.

For over 40 years, the show has solidified its status as the must-attend event for prairie grain producers, showcasing leadership in crop science and cutting-edge technology. As farmers seek the latest information and products to help enhance yields and crop value, exhibitors from Western Canada and the United States provide solutions, enabling producers to make informed decisions for the upcoming growing season.

Prairieland’s commitment to agriculture and the grain sector remains steadfast. Organizers extend heartfelt thanks to sponsors, presenters, exhibitors, attendees, volunteers, and dedicated staff, all of whom contributed to the success of the 41st annual show. Anticipation is high for next year’s event, scheduled for January 14-16, 2025, as we look forward to a promising future in crop production.

In 1983, a visionary idea took root and has since flourished into an annual pilgrimage to Saskatoon for prairie grain producers. The Western Canadian Crop Production Show, now spanning over four decades, has not only captivated local farmers but has also become a beacon for global agricultural experts keen on cutting-edge technology.

Written by Traycee Martens, Marketing Manager

The Western Canadian Crop Production Show hit the mark in its inaugural year. Prairieland’s then agriculture manager, Michael Fleury, aimed to attract 75 exhibitors to a new show that would focus on every aspect of grain production, including information on seeding, soil types, input requirements, and equipment. The response surpassed expectations, selling out the 40,000 sq ft Jubilee Building with 12 more companies waiting on a cancellation list.

Market conditions ripe for growth

The show’s fortuitous timing, bringing producers and manufacturers together early in the year, proved beneficial for both parties. Farmers sought concrete answers to their questions, while businesses came armed with solutions, allowing producers to make informed decisions for the upcoming season. The show doubled in size to 80,000 sq ft by its third year, drawing some 7,000 visitors. The Crop Production Show soon became a testament to Saskatchewan’s ingenuity, showcasing products born not only from engineering expertise but also from the sheer determination to address industry needs.

Beyond the traditional tools of the trade, attendees sought to network, gather market information, and explore the latest agriculture technologies. The show’s themes evolved with industry trends, addressing topics like diversification in response to bumper crops, grain marketing, and precision farming. In 2020, supply chain demand and mental health on the farm took center stage.

The changing prairie landscape

The show’s success prompted the expansion of Prairieland’s facilities. By 1994, the show had outgrown the buildings prompting the enclosure of the space between the Wheatland A and Wheatland B buildings, creating center hall. In 1997, the new trade center was constructed and Hall D increased capacity even more — show organizers had no trouble filling the space. Less than 10 years later, the old Jubilee building was demolished and replaced with Hall E, adding yet another 58,000 sq ft. bringing the total trade show area in the complex to over 200,000 sq ft. all of which was easily filled by the demand.

Despite the decline in the overall number of producers that tend to Saskatchewan’s 45 million acres of farmland, the demand for creative solutions to manage expansive operations remained steady, positioning the show as a catalyst for technological advances.

A ground-breaking effect on the local economy

Not only has the Crop Production Show had a long-term effect on Saskatchewan’s reputation as a leader in the industry, it has also had an economic impact on Saskatoon. As far back as 1998, the show attracted enough visitors to garner $5 million in direct and immediate benefits to the city. Hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls all register massive revenue increases during Crop Production Week, starting each new year off in the right fiscal direction.

Taking the pulse of the patrons

Maintaining its success relies on the meticulous curation of the trade show, with every display chosen to help grain growers optimize their yields. Exhibitors value the face-to-face interactions with the show’s highly qualified audience, understanding the importance of connecting with potential customers. The show has become a professional development event for growers, offering a prime opportunity for businesses to showcase their products when buyers are ready to make capital purchase decisions.

Looking beyond the horizon

As the Western Canadian Crop Production Show continues to help shape Saskatchewan’s farming history, Prairieland’s commitment to the grain sector remains unwavering. This flagship event not only celebrates past successes but also anticipates a future where agriculture and technology converge to drive innovation and prosperity even higher. The story is still being written, with each passing year another chapter in the legacy of the Western Canadian Crop Production Show.

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The Western Canadian Crop Production Show runs every January at Prairieland. You can follow the show on Twitter or Facebook to learn more about this year’s show and to find information about upcoming events. To view the website, click here: www.cropproductionshow.com.