Why You Should Visit The Royal Winter Fair

This is about going to the country – in the city. The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair is the “largest combined indoor agricultural fair and international equestrian competition in the world.” That’s right, more people come to our horse and pony show than any other in the world. Simply put, it’s got pedigree.

This is your local small town fair on steroids. Displays include everything from food and drink to live animals, and world-class competition facilities to cover over a million square feet of space – every inch of which offers unique and entertaining insight into the future world of agriculture, the current state of local food, and all things equestrian. If you want a taste of where your food comes from, this is the place to get it.

Let’s talk awards. How about giving one to everything from cheese, honey, and maple syrup to apples, potatoes, and corn – all made right in our very own backyard. At The Royal you can stroll down the Harvest Path and check out the best food our country has produced this calendar year. Of course, if that doesn’t float your boat you can always just stare in awe at a 1000-pound pumpkin, hang out with 500 beef cows, or say what’s up to 250 chickens.

After visiting the petting zoo (don’t pretend it’s just for kids), taking in a sheep fleecing show, or watching the world’s fastest omelet maker teach you how to make a perfect one in less than a minute (seriously, this guy’s in the Guinness Book of World Records), you might find yourself a bit peckish or in want of a well-earned beverage. Luckily, The Royal has everything you could ever want to fill your belly and slake your thirst. There’s a pub, a club, a saloon, a hitching ring Cafe, a royal vineyard and brewhouse, and a food court filled with select vendors offering everything from traditional fair favourites to new and exciting dishes. We just got hungry thinking about the options.

There are several horse shows to choose from, including the International Show Jumpers and the Canadian Championships for Hunters. Whether you’re a first timer or you are in fact sitting on a horse while you’re reading this, The Royal provides an atmosphere that all current and future hippophiles will enjoy.    

The Royal is offering you the chance to get out and do something different with your weekend. After all, Calgarians aren’t the only ones who can wear cowboy hats and get away with it.

Cover Image by: Ben Radvanyi