The memories of the 2019 fair and exhibition season are filled with local harvests, culinary specialties, 4-H BC livestock events, entertainment and connections made with the people who grow British Columbia’s food.

This fair season, the Ministry of Agriculture partnered with the BC Association of Agricultural Fairs and Exhibitions (BC Fairs) to promote Buy BC at select fairs and exhibitions throughout the province. A contest was held for fairs to create Buy BC displays to showcase local products in a fun, creative way so fairgoers could learn more about the importance of supporting local producers and farmers. Attendees were encouraged to take photos and post them to social media.

“Fairs and exhibitions bring out the best in B.C. agriculture and give the public a chance to meet B.C.'s farmers, as well as discover and share the amazing food being grown and produced where we live,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture. “A trip to a B.C. fair offers a day of fun with family and friends, and I'm proud that local food, farmers, fair organizers and volunteers, and the community all come together to make those days special.”

To celebrate the end of the season, members of BC Fairs gathered in Sun Peaks for the 109th Annual BC Fairs Conference. The winning fairs of the best Buy BC-themed display and social media message contest will be announced at a banquet on the final night. Winners will be announced in three categories – small, medium and large fairs. Winners will receive a cash prize of $1,000 and an achievement plaque.

“The BC Association of Agricultural Fairs and Exhibitions, which is comprised of 47 agricultural societies, is appreciative of the invaluable support that was provided by the Ministry of Agriculture and the Investment Agriculture Foundation,” said Tom Harter, president, BC Association of Agricultural Fairs and Exhibitions. “The successful partnerships that we are building by working with Minister Popham and the market development team of the Ministry of Agriculture in delivering the Buy BC message over the last two years have made a positive impact on public awareness of the diverse agriculture industry in British Columbia.”

The B.C. government provided BC Fairs with $40,000 to support organizers and members at the conference. The annual B.C. Fairs Conference is a celebration of more than 50 fairs and exhibitions, as well as the people and volunteers behind them. The conference offers informational sessions and workshops to support future events that will be enjoyed by British Columbian families around the province.

Quick Facts:

• The Buy BC promotion reached over 270,000 fairgoers this summer.
• 16 fairs participated in creating a Buy BC display exhibit.
• The winners for the best Buy BC display and social media message were based on:
  • creativity of the exhibit or activity;
  • the post event report; and
  • overall social media exposure.

Learn More:

For more information on Buy BC, visit: https://buybc.gov.bc.ca/

Read more about BC Fairs: https://bcfairs.ca/