Provincial Ex takes over home show

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 04/03/2025 (248 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba has taken the reins of the Brandon Home and Leisure Show, adding the well-known event to its roster following the dissolution of Display Manitoba.

The exhibition’s first year under new leadership will take place from April 11-13 at the Keystone Centre, with a focus on enhancing the show while maintaining its longstanding tradition of showcasing home improvement, innovation, and lifestyle solutions, Provincial Exhibition president Clint Swain told the Sun.

“We are excited and proud to carry on the tradition of the Brandon Home and Leisure Show and bring a fresh perspective to this community-loved event,” Swain said in an interview. “Our goal is to enhance the show while maintaining its core values and providing a high-quality experience for exhibitors and attendees.”

With the takeover, the Provincial Exhibition aims to improve accessibility by significantly reducing admission prices, cutting entry fees in half from the previous year to $5, with free admission for children 14 and under. Organizers believe this change will make the event more inviting for families and individuals eager to explore the diverse range of home and leisure exhibitors.

The addition of the Home and Leisure Show marks the fifth annual event on the Provincial Exhibition’s calendar. Despite the growing portfolio, Swain expressed confidence in the organization’s ability to manage the event effectively.

“Currently, our organization is running at almost full staff with the addition of three new employees. As this event is primarily a trade show, it is being managed by Kaila Lapointe, our new trade show and bookings co-ordinator,” he said. “This is a natural progression for us, as many vendors at the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair also attend the Brandon Home and Leisure Show, making it a great fit.”

The transition to the Provincial Exhibition’s oversight brings operational enhancements, including increased staff support and an ad hoc committee of experienced vendors to provide industry insights.

“Previously, only one or two staff members managed the event, but now we can utilize our full team and the support of 39 dedicated directors,” Swain explained. Additionally, Kristen Laing Breemersch has been promoted to manager of operations and acting general manager, bringing extensive experience to ensure the event runs smoothly.

The organization is committed to maintaining the show’s reputation while refining its approach to align with existing Provincial Exhibition events.

“The show fits well within our calendar and runs just weeks after the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair,” Swain said. “We’re focused on providing a great trade show not only for the community, but also for the vendors who invest time and resources to be part of it.”

Swain said exhibitor applications are still being accepted, and businesses interested in participating are encouraged to apply at brandonhomeshow.ca.

» aodutola@brandonsun.com

» X: @AbiolaOdutola