Weather swings, big crowds mark 2025 summer fair

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This article was published 09/06/2025 (290 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Despite rain and wind, the 2025 edition of the Manitoba Summer Fair wrapped up on Sunday with strong attendance, an event organizer says.

The fair received positive feedback from visitors regarding how the week-long event unfolded, fair co-chair Tim Rowan told the Sun on Sunday.

“We had rain, we had wind, we had sun, and most importantly, we had fun,” Rowan said. “That really sums it up.”

Rowan estimated that between 35,000 and 40,000 people passed through the gates throughout the fair, slightly fewer than about 50,000 recorded in 2024, but still robust. “Saturday was decent, and to our surprise, about 2,500 still showed up on a rainy Sunday,” Rowan added.

The weather was the main factor behind the slight dip in attendance compared to last year.

“Last year had fewer disruptions,” Rowan said, noting how changing weather patterns affected certain rides, particularly on windy days. Still, he emphasized that all major attractions remained operational and that guests adapted enthusiastically. “In Brandon, we have some of the most hearty people on the planet. They come out, no matter the forecast.”

The fair, which began on Wednesday, drew crowds early in the week, perhaps encouraged by forecasts predicting weekend rain, Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba president Clint Swain said.

“We were up a few hundred each night compared to last year,” Swain said. “The early part of the week helped boost our numbers.”

One of this year’s major new additions was the return of the horse show, which featured more than 80 exhibitors. “That brought a new group of people, some who might not usually attend the fair,” Swain added. “It’s good for the industry and the fair’s diversity.”

Organizers also introduced advanced smart-tech walkthrough scanners, which significantly improved the speed and efficiency of the entry process. “We didn’t see the same long lines as last year,” Rowan noted. “It allowed for faster, safer access, and people noticed.”

The upgraded security measures, including co-operation from the Brandon Police Service, First Nations safety officers, and community cadets, helped prevent major incidents and reinforced a sense of safety.

“No weapons, no contraband, no major issues,” Swain said. “That’s something we’re proud of.”

Fence-jumpers remained a persistent nuisance, Rowan admitted, but emphasized that additional security helped limit their impact. “We know that’s where the trouble can come from, so we stay vigilant,” he said.

The fair’s signature fireworks show, held Friday night, went off without a hitch, thanks to co-ordination with local fire officials. According to Swain, the midway was buzzing with activity, although some popular rides saw wait times of 30 to 40 minutes, prompting some guests to opt for fast passes.

“We continue to evolve,” Rowan said. “We’re focused on safety, family fun and making sure every year is better than the last. This year, we battled all kinds of weather, but the fun won.”

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