Farmfair International is poised to return to Edmonton Nov. 8-11.
Organizers say the event has been Alberta’s largest beef cattle show for nearly 50 years, at which exhibitors from across Western Canada gather to show their top livestock genetics to purebred producers, local ranchers and international buyers.
Boasting the largest purse in Canada, Farmfair International offers more than $300,000 in prizes for beef programs alone. Cattle shows and sales, international buyers and a trade show attract producers from across the province.
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The event hosts 12 breed shows and more than 1,000 head of cattle.
Purebred beef shows:
- Black Angus
- Charolais
- Gelbvieh
- Hereford
- Limousin
- Maine Anjou
- Red Angus
- Salers
- Shorthorn
- Simmental
- Speckle Park
- All Other Breeds
The Ultimate Legends bracket show will continue this year after a strong showing in 2022. It’s open to any purebred calendar year heifer or bull calf that is also entered in a breed show.
The bracket divisions are organized by breed. Each breed champion will compete against the other breed champions to name the Ultimate Legend Champions. It will begin Nov. 8 at 3 p.m.
There will also be a junior futurity show featuring younger exhibitors in four age classes: pee wee (eight and under), junior (9 to 11), intermediate (12 to 14) and senior (15 to 21).
A prospect steer and heifer show, a bullpen show and commercial cattlemen’s luncheon are part of the event.
The show will host elementary students in grades four, five and six, through the Farmfair Field Trip. Students will learn about agriculture in Canada through a curriculum-linked program and will see demonstrations and educational stations.
Only registered schools can visit on Nov. 8 in two morning and afternoon slots. On Nov. 9-11, the experience will be opened to the public. Families and youth groups are invited to learn about agriculture through animal meet-and- greets, live demonstrations and educational stations.
They’ll also be able to browse the trade show, see cattle and cattle shows and view BBQ pit masters at work.
The Alberta Honey Show is part of the event, giving registered producers a chance to showcase their honey and honey products.
Discover Your Future in Ag aims to bring employers in the agriculture industry together with Alberta’s youth to discuss career opportunities. Employers are asked to register by Oct. 20. Youths who register before Oct. 27 will get a free lunch.
The event wraps up Nov. 11 with a concert featuring Tom Cochrane, Trooper, Sass Jordan and the Cam Student Band. Tickets are on sale now.
