The 102nd edition of the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair took place November 1st to 10th, 2024. Held at the Enercare Centre at Exhibition Place,Toronto the RWF was amazing as always. Something for everyone.
The many breeds of sheep and cattle – seeing them in their pens all together at the back of the Enercare Centre and seeing the farmers work with the animals is always one highlight. We learn to appreciate all the hard work, dedication and love these very hard workers have for their career, their animals and the agricultural industry. Many of the animals are there to compete and win prizes in The Semex Ring of Excellence.
The Royal Horse Shows and competitions are also a very important part of the RWF and they attract many horse-lovers. It is North America’s premier indoor equestrian event, offering world class competitions and entertainment for horse enthusiasts of all levels. Olympians and elite athletes compete at the highest level in Show Jumping, Indoor Eventing and Dressage.
There was a full schedule of horse activities and sheep and cattle competitions. Plus Birds of Prey, Farmers vs First Responders, Toronto Mounted Police Q&A Horseshoeing competition, sheep herding, sheep shearing.
For the kids and big kids (i.e. adults!) the Royal Horse Show also showcases fun entertainment, with the K9-Equine Challenge featuring the Global Pet Foods Superdogs, and a real Western Rodeo. We enjoyed seeing border collies herding sheep with precision and athleticism of the Global Pet Foods Superdogs. The Small Animal Pavilion was a favourite with young ones with The Royal Petting Farm with farm favourites – goats, sheep, alpacas, rabbits and pigs – hands-on activities.
Detailed butter sculptures being made in front of your eyes was fascinating. The AG-Tivity Stage was located in the farm and playzone. So there’s lots for kids to do and learn. Lots. A perfect school excursion for all ages of students. Growth Hub Stage – sessions on mental health, future careers, Education symposiums on Your future in food. Dairy Education Centre. The OLG stage had a full schedule of excellent entertainers singing and playing guitar – including Jade Hilton and Kelly Davies who were magnificent. Tables and chairs were set up and visitors had the opportunity to buy drinks and food.
The RWF also has many vendors with clothing, food, boots, leather goods and equipment for horses. One large area included vendors from Northern Ontario – Wawa, Sault Ste Marie, Bracebridge, Dryden, Manitoulin Island, Thunder Bay to name a few. Wine and beer samples and the opportunity to buy them, too.
The cooking demo area called The Chef’s Table is sponsored by Milk overall but then sponsored by either turkey farmers, beef industry or eggs depending on the recipe being made. Tickets can be purchased online to reserve a spot for the daily cooking classes offered. Well known chefs give demos of the cooking while participants follow along cooking their own samples to eat together after. A wonderful opportunity to learn a new dish.
The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair is like a breath of fresh air… always something new, exciting, fun and educational. Looking forward to next year’s 2025 RWF!
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