Pandemic forces postponement of Agribition

For the first time in its history, the Canadian Western Agribition (CWA) will miss a year as it postpones its 50th anniversary show until 2021 because of the COVID -19 pandemic.

The announcement was made on Wednesday as show organizers said the event would not be able to happen with the anticipated continuation of COVID -19 restrictions in the province.

“This was a difficult decision to make, but the health and safety of our exhibitors, sponsors, volunteers, partners, and guests is priority,” CWA president Chris Lees said in a news release.

“We owe it to everyone connected to Agribition to make the best decisions we can, even when they’re the hardest ones to make,” he added.

The special 50th anniversary show and celebration was scheduled to take place on Nov. 30 to Dec. 5 this year and has now been bumped back to Nov. 22 to 27, 2021.

The dates this year, announced at the end of last year’s show, held a special meaning as the event was set to celebrate its 50th year on the exact same day it all began back in 1971.

“Agribition has never missed (a) show in 49 years so this is tough,” says CWA CEO Chris Lane. “But we have already started making sure that CWA’S year-round work continues and we showcase Canadian agriculture to the community and to the world.”

For those still hoping for a taste of Agribition this year, organizers are working to create a digital experience for exhibitors, international buyers and students this year.

They also hope to continue the organization’s work on mentorship, international market development, education and scholarships.