Minnedosa holds spring market & tack sale

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This article was published 12/05/2025 (318 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

MINNEDOSA — The Minnedosa Agricultural Complex hosted its Agricultural Society’s Spring Market & Tack Sale Saturday morning as families, horse lovers and local vendors gathered at the complex.

The event was designed as a fundraiser, a celebration of local rural life and a platform to showcase a wide variety of wares, educational presentations, and a strong sense of community spirit, co-organizer Ellen Pass told the Sun.

The event, she said, was conceived from brainstorming sessions about how to raise funds for the upcoming Minnedosa Fair, scheduled for July 19 and 20.

“We were brainstorming some fundraising ideas, and this one came up,” Pass said. “It’s been a great way to get the community involved and raise awareness for what we’re doing this summer.”

Inside the Ag Complex, visitors were welcomed by an inviting market full of unique items and activities. The venue featured everything from donated tack and saddles to charming Mother’s Day gifts and homemade baked goods. Volunteers ran a busy canteen offering lunches and snacks, and a lively bake sale table added a sweet touch to the day’s offerings.

One of the highlights was the “Guess the Weight” contest, where attendees tried to guess the combined weight of Ginger the goat and her baby.

“Prizes included candy bundles, and winners were revealed from a sealed weight envelope prepared by the Minnedosa Vet Clinic,” she added. “To help boost fundraising efforts, 50/50 draw tickets were sold throughout the day and attendees purchased golf balls for additional games and giveaways. The proceeds will directly support this summer’s fair.”

The market wasn’t just about shopping — it was an opportunity for learning and engagement, particularly for younger visitors. Kate MacDonald led a session titled ‘Horse and Pony Essentials and Safety,’ guiding children through the basics of pony care, including brushing, bridling, tacking up, and safely mounting a pony.

“She took a group of children through everything they need to know,” Pass said. “It was incredibly informative and hands-on.”

In the arena, Danny Siwaluk and his “Small But Mighty” 40-inch pony chore team wowed spectators with a live demonstration. Siwaluk explained how to harness both a single pony and a team, emphasizing proper harness fit and practical safety tips. He also shared how he uses his ponies in everyday tasks, giving attendees a glimpse into the working world of these pint-sized powerhouses.

The day also included a special presentation by the Minnedosa Multi-Purpose 4-H group, who revisited a provincial speech for the audience.

The spring market was not only a success in terms of turnout and funds raised, but also as a prelude to the much-anticipated Minnedosa Fair this summer. “We’re advertising our fair, which is going to be on the July 19 and 20 weekend,” she said.

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