Virtual format Frontier Days 2020 will be celebrated in Swift Current

The Swift Current Agriculture and Exhibition Association has unveiled an innovative virtual way to celebrate Frontier Days 2020.

For the first time in the 82 year history of Frontier Days, participants will have an opportunity to remotely participate in contests, competitions, entertainment and food as a unique fashion necessitated by the realities of the COVID-19 pandemic.

While the gates of the fair will not be open to livestock, participants, bands or visitors, Frontier Days 2020 on June 22 to 27 will boast an extensive online presence during the first ever summer of social distancing.

“As producers of the annual fair, we know that it is a beloved and important event for the whole community, and we want to make sure that this year’s virtual event is fun as well as safe. You may not see Frontier Days up close and in person like previous years, but there are contests galore, prizes to win, and so much fun to be had!” a press release announcing the Frontier Days line-up explains. THE BARBERING CO - BRING’N BACK THE

BEARD CONTEST In the early days of Frontier Days, starting in 1938, a beard growing contest was held each year to boost community spirits. Swift Current then became known as the “Bearded City” and contestants came from all over the great Southwest to attend and compete. The annual Beard Contest continued for several decades and put Swift Current on the map when it was discussed in Parliament in Ottawa as an example of a city working to boost moral. In its hay day, the competition required contestants carry a “Beard Permit”, with the winners being awarded huge prizes.

The Swift Current Ag & Ex & The Barbering Co has brought back the beard contest for 2020 to uplift community spirits in this tough time, much as our predecessors did during the 1930’s.

be part of the fun. well as a sponsored gift card from the winning restaurant.

With many parents and children practicing social distancing and staying at home, you may be looking for activities to keep kids occupied. We’re here to help, and we’re also including a chance for you to enter for a chance to win I Ride Passes to Frontier Days 2021 contest is open for age Categories 9 & under, 10 to 14 and 15 to 18. For entry form and colouring sheet downloads, visit our website.

Show us your artistic side, design a poster that best symbolizes “Spirit of the West: Past & Present” as it refers to the annual Frontier Days celebration, the Swift Current Agriculture and Exhibition Association, and/ or life in Southwest Saskatchewan. All subject matter must be in good taste. Open for age Categories 9 & under, 10 to 14 and 15 to 18. For rules and guidelines visit out website. Each winner will be presented with a voucher for an iride Pass for Frontier Days 2021.