Slow start, strong finish for winter fair

The 2026 Royal Manitoba Winter Fair wrapped up in Brandon with organizers calling it a success.

The assessment comes despite early challenges and slightly lower overall attendance.

Fair co-chair Clint Swain, who is also past-president of the Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba, said the week began slowly after a Monday snowstorm dampened turnout.

“Attendance rebounded as the week progressed, with the fair seeing record crowds over the holiday weekend,” he told the Sun. “By the end of the week, we were really happy with how things turned out.”

While final numbers are still being compiled, attendance is expected to be slightly lower than in 2025.

Swain said rising living costs and higher fuel prices were contributing factors, especially for visitors travelling from rural communities.

“Increased gasoline and diesel costs may have added an extra $30 to $40 to a family’s trip,” he said.

The fair saw growth in several key areas. The trade show was sold out and expanded by about 20 per cent, with an influx of new vendors who reported strong sales and positive experiences.

On the agricultural and equestrian side, participation surged. Organizers reported full capacity in livestock stalls, along with increases in both cattle entries and competitors in the hunter-jumper division, highlighting sustained interest in the fair’s core programming.

New and expanded programming also helped draw crowds.

The return of the Trick Riders, a larger multicultural showcase featuring diverse performances, and continued growth of Indigenous Celebration Day reflected efforts to broaden the fair’s appeal and strengthen community ties with surrounding First Nations, Swain said.

In the show ring, competition remained a major highlight. Femke Courchaine claimed the Grand Prix title, adding to a long history of success at the Brandon event. The Red Deer, Alta., rider said the win was less about competition and more about her connection with her horse.

“I just wanted to come and ride and enjoy it,” she said. “It was my first time back in two years while balancing family life with two young children. It’s really about the companionship.”

Meanwhile, the next generation of riders was also celebrated. Sophie Vodon, 13, was awarded a $2,500 scholarship after earning the highest points in equitation and medal classes for riders aged 12 to 18.

“I’m very excited and very proud of my horse and me,” Vodon said. “The scholarship will help support my education and future goals in competitive riding.”

Looking ahead, Swain said the focus will be on growth.

“With exhibitor demand already exceeding available space, planning is underway to expand facilities and accommodate more participants in future editions,” he said.

» aodutola@brandonsun.com

» X: @AbiolaOdutola