Organizers term 2025 Ag Days ‘amazing’ success

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This article was published 25/01/2025 (228 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The 48th edition of Manitoba Ag Days concluded on Thursday, with organizers declaring it an “amazing” success that saw an impressive turnout of attendees.

Held at the Keystone Centre in Brandon, the three-day event celebrated the start of the agricultural calendar, with a focus on innovation, education, and collaboration, general manager Kristen Phillips told the Sun on Friday.

“It was an amazing event because Ag Days is where the ag year begins. People are happy to start fresh,” Phillips said. “This year’s event attracted approximately 37,120 attendees, keeping attendance in line with the last three years.

Despite facing weather challenges during the move-in process, she said, the team worked hard to ensure a smooth show, adding Thursday saw above-average attendance, making up for slower days earlier in the week.

With 67 speakers presenting on agronomy, sustainability, livestock, and marketing topics, attendees had access to a wealth of industry insights. One of the highlights, she added, was a session by Dickson Delorme, better known as Quick Dick McDick — a farmer and comedian — whose discussion on geopolitics drew an impressive 750 attendees.

“The optimism in the industry was palpable,” Phillips said. “It was fantastic to see so many engaged participants.”

The event featured a new addition this year — a “Produce on the Prairies” farmers’ market and 32 food and beverage vendors joined the show, contributing to the event’s diversity, the general manager said.

The show also saw an increase in exhibitors from the previous year, with 585 participating, surpassing the previous year’s 550 — and one of them stood out.

AGI — a global leader in equipment for farmers, processors, and commercial clients — received the prestigious “Best in Show” award, with Phillips explaining the award goes beyond aesthetics, considering qualities like being a good neighbour, working well with the organizing committee, and creating a pure farm display.

“AGI brought all those components together brilliantly,” she said. “Exhibitors are the heart of Manitoba Ag Days. Our show is made up of incredible exhibitors, and everything we do is to enhance their experience.”

This year’s Ag Days showcased 34 innovations across seven categories, with 15 companies crowned champions. Seven companies took first place, while eight secured second place. The competition in the Ag Equipment category was so fierce that it ended in a tie.

Phillips praised the innovation committee’s efforts, stating that the event remains “100 per cent farmer-focused.”

The participants in the Innovation Showcase were extremely grateful for the opportunity, as it highlighted the latest and most innovative products and services in agriculture, offering excellent visibility for the companies involved, Manitoba Ag Days Innovation Showcase committee chair Mike Cousins said.

“It’s crucial for companies to showcase new products and for entrepreneurs to present their innovations to potential customers,” Cousins said.

The varied lineup of speakers offered something for everyone, and the sessions were well-attended, program committee chair Hannah Minshull said.

“Farmers understand that ongoing education is crucial for making the best management decisions,” Minshull said. “While there are factors beyond our control, like the weather and markets, staying current on the things we can control is the key — and that’s the valuable learning that takes place at Manitoba Ag Days.”

While weather presented logistical hurdles during the move-in, the team managed to overcome them quickly, ensuring a seamless experience for exhibitors. Phillips credited the Keystone Centre’s staff and central display team for their support.

As for what could be done differently, Phillips said it was too early to assess, as the debrief was still ongoing. However, she credited the event’s success to the dedication of her team and board of directors, noting their passion and connection to farming.

She added Manitoba Ag Days continues to stand out as Canada’s only not-for-profit agricultural trade show, driven by a farmer-focused board.

“The 49th edition is already scheduled for Jan. 20-22, 2026, with promises of being bigger and better,” she said. “You can always expect something new. We don’t seem to know what status quo means.”

Ag Days has a $350-million economic impact and saw $55,000 in community grants and scholarships awarded in 2025, the general manager added.

“In 2025, we surpassed half a million dollars invested in community grants and Ag education through Ag Days Gives Back,” she said.

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