The 33rd edition of the Drayton Kinsmen Farm Show is ready to open its doors to farmers, exhibitors and the entire community.
While the focus is on service, innovation and technology, it’s truly a show that provides something for everyone.
With snow still on the ground, keeping farmers from their fields, last years’s show drew over 2,100 people, and Kinsmen show chair Kevin Van Loo said the club is looking to match or exceed those numbers in 2014.
“I’m thinking the snow’s not going to be gone … so the turnout should be pretty decent this year,” said Van Loo.
The two-day event takes place at the PMD Arena in Drayton on April 2 and 3 from 11am to 10pm.
Organizers credit the success of the show to its roots and they remain focused on being rural Ontario’s agribusiness showcase. The impact on economic development within the community and surrounding areas encourages support for local businesses.
“The community includes a lot of farming and we have some pretty good exhibits. Everybody knows the exhibitors,” said Van Loo, commenting on the show’s ongoing popularity.
Over 100 exhibitors are slated to display at the event, including a wide range of products and services, bringing innovation and technology to the agricultural industry.
A working display of wood stoves for heating is among the interesting new displays expected at the 2014 show, said Van Loo.
He stressed the show is not just for farmers. There are displays, information booths and educational opportunities for everyone.
“There’s a variety (of exhibits) there for the town people … You can buy lawnmowers there, or you can buy anything,” he noted.
The family-friendly show welcomes all ages, making the event much like the family farm – an important agricultural tradition, with generations taking part.
Van Loo noted the show also provides opportunities for other local groups to raise funds. For example, the Drayton Minor Hockey Association runs the food booth and this year, the food court area is being expanded due to popular demand.
Local Girl Guide members will also be on hand at the show, selling their popular brand of cookies.
Perhaps the most unique show tradition is the collectible toy tractor – this year a customized White Field Boss 4-210.
The organizers, the Drayton Kinsmen, includes many farmers or members active in some aspect of agriculture, and thus, the show is run by community volunteers.
Admission to the show is $3 with $1 going to cystic fibrosis research, a cause the Kinsmen work to support nationally. The remainder is used to support the club’s local community betterment work.
“Obviously whatever we make goes back into the community,” said Van Loo.
He added club members have been working hard on advance preparation and the show is now “ready to go.
“We just need the people to show up now,” he said.
