Edmonton (Rural Roots Canada) – From international livestock competitions to calf cuddling and cultural celebrations, Farmfair International is bringing together agricultural traditions, emerging leaders and families for its 52nd year.
The annual Edmonton event continues to showcase the livestock industry while introducing urban audiences to agriculture through interactive experiences and family-friendly activities.
Kimberly Zagar, an agriculture specialist with Farmfair International, says one of the biggest highlights this year is the expansion of the Battle of Emerging Elite Farmers (BEEF) competition.
The competition brings together young agricultural leaders between the ages of 18 and 25 from around the world to test their skills, share knowledge and build connections.
“I believe there’s 12 teams this year,” says Zagar, noting participants are coming from countries including Australia, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina and the United Kingdom, along with a Canadian team.
Competitors take part in livestock judging, grooming, showmanship, social media challenges and herdsman competitions.
Zagar says the program is designed to help young participants learn more about the future of agriculture while developing international relationships.
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Argentina is also taking centre stage as Farmfair’s featured country for 2026.
Visitors can experience Argentine culture through tango performances, traditional folk dancing and Latin music, along with food tastings featuring Argentine sausage, yerba mate and dulce de leche.
Beyond the international attractions, Farmfair offers plenty for families.
Popular activities include cuddling Highland calves, visiting the petting zoo, watching rabbit shows and cheering on wiener dogs during the weiner dog races.
Visitors can also learn about Ned’s Wish, an organization supporting retired police and military dogs.
For those interested in the business of agriculture, Farmfair features more than 50 livestock shows and competitions, alongside AgTech & Innovation Alley, where visitors can explore emerging agricultural technologies.
However, Zagar says one of Farmfair’s most important roles is connecting people with agriculture, particularly those who may have little experience with farming.
“It’s a real introduction to agriculture,” she says. “We deliberately develop programs that are a soft entry into agriculture because I think cattle shows can be intimidating for people who haven’t had that experience.”
For agricultural families, Farmfair also serves as an annual reunion, bringing together producers and friends who may only see each other once a year.
Farmfair International runs November 5–8 at the Edmonton EXPO Centre.
General admission is free.
More information and event schedules are available at farmfairinternational.com
