Livestock & Poultry Events in Canada

PALSA - Advancing sustainable agriculture and food research

PALSA Conference: Advancing Sustainable Agriculture and Food Research Through Synchrotron Science

The PALSA Conference—officially titled Advancing Sustainable Agriculture and Food Research—is more than just a scientific gathering. It represents a significant milestone in the intersection of agricultural innovation, environmental responsibility, and advanced imaging science. Held in Saskatoon, Canada, and organized by AgWest Bio Inc., the conference draws attention to one of the most cutting-edge tools in agricultural research today: synchrotron light sources.

This unique event brings together researchers, industry leaders, policymakers, and technology developers to explore how synchrotron-based imaging can solve some of agriculture’s most pressing challenges—from soil health and plant productivity to food safety and processing efficiency.

A Powerful Collaboration Backed by Canadian Innovation

The PALSA Conference is made possible thanks to strong collaboration between public and private entities. It receives vital support through funding from the Government of Canada and the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture, as part of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (SCAP).

This strategic funding initiative reflects a clear national commitment to:

Driving sustainable agricultural practices

Encouraging the adoption of high-impact technologies

Enhancing Canada’s role as a global leader in agri-food innovation

By supporting the PALSA Conference, these agencies help ensure that academic research translates into real-world applications, strengthening both industry performance and environmental resilience.

Why Synchrotron Research Matters to Agriculture and Food Science

For those unfamiliar with synchrotrons, they are powerful particle accelerators that produce intense beams of light—millions of times brighter than the sun. This light is used to probe the molecular and atomic structure of materials, making it an ideal tool for detailed analysis of biological, chemical, and physical properties in agricultural contexts.

Key applications of synchrotron science in agriculture include:

Analyzing soil nutrient distribution for precision farming

Mapping trace minerals in plants to improve yield and resilience

Examining food microstructures to enhance processing and shelf life

Studying plant-pathogen interactions at the cellular level

Characterizing contaminants and residues in food products

Such imaging capabilities allow researchers and industry professionals to see what was once invisible, leading to smarter decisions and more sustainable outcomes.

Who Should Attend the PALSA Conference?

The PALSA Conference is designed to bridge science with industry, and therefore welcomes a wide spectrum of participants—from technical experts to business strategists.

Ideal attendees include:

Agricultural researchers and scientists

Food industry professionals and R&D teams

Synchrotron facility users and technical staff

Policy makers and funding organizations

Technology transfer specialists and incubators

Environmental and sustainability officers

Agri-tech startups and innovators

With carefully curated programming, PALSA ensures each stakeholder finds value, whether it’s discovering a new research technique, building partnerships, or exploring funding opportunities.

A Forum for Knowledge Sharing and Commercial Opportunity

One of PALSA's core missions is to increase awareness about the practical potential of synchrotron tools in agriculture. Through a robust mix of scientific presentations, case studies, and panel discussions, the conference showcases real-world success stories and encourages cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Common themes and discussion tracks include:

Sustainable crop production using synchrotron imaging

Improving food quality and shelf life with molecular analysis

Understanding soil and nutrient interactions at micro-levels

Advancing food packaging through materials science

Tracking environmental contaminants and ensuring food safety

By facilitating conversations between researchers and potential end users, PALSA helps ensure that science is translated into action—and not just in the lab.

A Spotlight on Canadian Synchrotron Leadership

Saskatoon is home to the Canadian Light Source (CLS), one of the world’s most advanced synchrotron facilities. The presence of the CLS gives the PALSA Conference a unique geographic and scientific advantage. Attendees benefit from direct access to world-class researchers, technical demonstrations, and site tours that bring the abstract world of high-energy light science to life.

Furthermore, the CLS is deeply involved in agriculture and food science research, making Saskatoon not just a host city—but an epicenter of synchrotron-driven agri-innovation.

Building Bridges: From Research to Industry Adoption

Despite its immense potential, synchrotron research remains underutilized in the mainstream agricultural industry. The PALSA Conference is helping to change that by acting as a matchmaking platform between:

Research institutions with deep technical expertise

Industry stakeholders seeking applied solutions

Government bodies offering support and incentives

Innovators and startups building new tools based on synchrotron insights

This collaborative approach ensures that the outcomes of research projects are aligned with industry needs and capable of delivering commercial and environmental returns.

Why PALSA Matters Now More Than Ever

Global agriculture is facing unprecedented challenges: climate variability, soil degradation, food insecurity, and supply chain instability. Addressing these complex issues requires precision tools and collaborative thinking.

The PALSA Conference arrives at a time when:

Producers are seeking efficiency gains without environmental trade-offs

Consumers demand higher food quality and safety

Governments are investing in climate-smart agriculture

Technological breakthroughs in agri-science are accelerating

PALSA connects these drivers through the lens of synchrotron innovation, helping agriculture move from traditional models to a future-ready, data-informed paradigm.

PALSA as a Launchpad for the Future of Agri-Food Innovation

The PALSA Conference stands as a bold statement that science and sustainability must go hand in hand. By placing synchrotron technology at the center of agricultural transformation, it inspires new ways of thinking, working, and innovating.

With support from national and regional institutions, the event lays the groundwork for:

Smarter food production systems

Advanced food safety protocols

Sustainable farming practices

Breakthrough research commercialization

Whether you're part of the agri-food industry, academic research, or public policy, attending PALSA offers a glimpse into how light can illuminate the path to agricultural resilience.

Manitoba AG EX

Manitoba AG EX: Celebrating Agriculture, Education, and Community in the Heart of the Prairies

Every autumn, the Keystone Centre in Brandon, Manitoba transforms into a vibrant celebration of Canadian agriculture. Manitoba AG EX, the province's largest all-breeds cattle show, offers much more than just livestock competitions—it bridges urban and rural communities, fosters agricultural education, and honors the deep-rooted connection to the land and Indigenous heritage.

From seasoned cattle breeders to curious schoolchildren, Manitoba AG EX invites everyone to experience the depth and diversity of agriculture in Manitoba. With events like the Little Lady Classic, Supreme Breed Extravaganza, and the educational Moo Mania and Ewe Mania programs, the event is a cornerstone of Manitoba's agricultural calendar.

A Showcase of Excellence: The Largest All-Breeds Cattle Show in Manitoba

One of the event's most defining features is its dedication to showcasing a wide range of cattle breeds. The Manitoba AG EX all-breeds cattle show brings together top breeders from across the region and beyond, competing in events that highlight both quality and care.

Among the major cattle events:

The Little Lady Classic: A youth showmanship event celebrating confidence and skills in young female handlers.

Supreme Breed Extravaganza: A prestigious contest where the finest champions from each breed compete for the overall title.

These events not only elevate the standard of livestock breeding in the province but also create a competitive, yet supportive, environment that promotes excellence in animal husbandry.
Bridging Urban and Rural: Agriculture for All Ages

While AG EX is rooted in agricultural tradition, one of its most important roles is creating connections between rural producers and urban visitors. The fair provides a firsthand look at where food comes from, how it’s produced, and the work that sustains Canadian farms.

This mission comes to life in programs like:

Moo Mania

Designed for students, Moo Mania is an educational journey into the world of dairy farming and cattle care. Children get to:

Interact with live animals

Learn about the lifecycle of dairy production

Understand the science behind feeding, milking, and breeding

Ewe Mania

Parallel to Moo Mania, Ewe Mania introduces students to the world of sheep farming, offering:

Hands-on learning about wool and meat production

Interactive stations about sheep breeds, care, and sustainable practices

These programs are instrumental in cultivating agricultural literacy among Manitoba’s youth, planting seeds of curiosity and respect for farming.

Recognizing Indigenous Heritage and Traditional Lands

An important element of Manitoba AG EX is its acknowledgment of the Indigenous peoples and the traditional lands on which the event takes place. Manitoba is home to a rich and diverse Indigenous culture, and recognizing these roots is key to ensuring the future of agriculture is inclusive and respectful.

Each year, AG EX opens with a land acknowledgment, and ongoing efforts are made to include Indigenous voices, practices, and perspectives. This commitment helps foster a stronger sense of community and shared responsibility toward the land and its stewardship.

More Than a Livestock Show: A Complete Agricultural Experience

While cattle and sheep are at the heart of Manitoba AG EX, the event also includes a range of experiences that appeal to the broader public and agricultural professionals alike.

Event Highlights

Youth Judging Competitions – Helping students build confidence, decision-making, and public speaking skills through livestock evaluation.

Breed Association Showcases – Providing breeders a platform to educate the public and connect with future buyers or collaborators.

Agricultural Exhibits – Featuring equipment, feed innovations, rural development strategies, and more.

These layers of activity turn the event into more than just a show—it becomes a hub for learning, trading, and celebrating shared agricultural values.

Educational Impact and Career Inspiration

For many students, Manitoba AG EX is their first immersive experience with agriculture. The hands-on opportunities, expert mentorship, and friendly atmosphere make it the perfect setting to inspire the next generation of agricultural professionals.

Benefits for Students:

Exposure to diverse livestock practices

Career exploration in agri-food industries

Development of public speaking and critical thinking skills

Direct engagement with farmers, breeders, and scientists

This educational element aligns with Manitoba’s broader strategy of building a resilient and innovative agricultural workforce.

Community, Culture, and Connection

At its core, Manitoba AG EX is about people. It's where urban families come to understand life on a farm, where young handlers take their first steps toward agricultural careers, and where communities gather to share in the tradition, culture, and future of Manitoba farming.

Community involvement is visible throughout:

Local volunteers assist with coordination and hosting

Small businesses provide food, crafts, and ag-related services

Schools and youth organizations collaborate in programming

These connections make Manitoba AG EX not just an event—but a living, breathing ecosystem of agricultural community and pride.

Why Manitoba AG EX Matters

In a time when the link between food producers and consumers is increasingly strained, events like Manitoba AG EX play a vital role. They humanize the face of agriculture, promote transparency, and build respect between urban and rural populations.

Through livestock excellence, interactive learning, and cultural recognition, AG EX remains one of Manitoba’s most impactful agricultural gatherings. It proves that farming is not just about fields and barns—it’s about people, legacy, and the future we build together.

WPC - WORLD POULTRY CONGRESS

The World Poultry Congress (WPC) is an essential international conference and exhibition dedicated to global poultry production, serving as a cornerstone event for various poultry science disciplines. This prestigious gathering brings together a diverse array of participants, including poultry scientists, industry professionals, stakeholders, academics, and students at all levels of their careers. The WPC is designed to foster the exchange of ideas and knowledge, enabling attendees to build valuable networks that can enhance collaboration and innovation within the poultry sector.

Taking place in Toronto, Canada, the congress situates itself at the economic, innovative, and cultural heart of the nation. This vibrant city, known for its multicultural roots, is a dynamic hub for local artists and innovators, providing a rich backdrop for the event. Toronto's ever-evolving landscape ensures that even those who have visited before will find new adventures and experiences to explore.

The WPC encompasses a broad range of research topics relevant to poultry science, offering insights into the latest advancements and trends in the industry. Attendees can expect to engage in thought-provoking discussions, attend informative sessions, and participate in workshops that cover cutting-edge research and practical applications. This collaborative environment not only enhances individual knowledge but also propels the industry forward, addressing challenges and opportunities in poultry production.

As participants gather in Toronto, they will have the unique opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals and thought leaders from around the globe. This exchange of expertise and experiences fosters a sense of community within the poultry industry, paving the way for future collaborations and innovations.

In summary, the World Poultry Congress is more than just an event; it is a vibrant meeting place for those passionate about poultry science. With its focus on knowledge sharing and networking, the congress plays a pivotal role in advancing the field and shaping the future of poultry production worldwide, all while immersing participants in the rich cultural tapestry of Toronto.

Cookshire Agricultural Fair

Cookshire Agricultural Fair: Honoring Tradition, Farming, and Community in the Cookshire-Eaton Region

Every summer, the heart of rural Quebec beats a little louder as the Cookshire Agricultural Fair returns to celebrate the rich farming traditions of the Cookshire-Eaton region. Held annually at the Exposition Agricole Cookshire, this beloved event offers more than just a display of agricultural excellence—it is a joyful gathering that embodies the values, hard work, and close-knit community spirit of Eastern Townships farming life.

With a history deeply rooted in Canada’s rural heritage, the Cookshire Agricultural Fair is a proud reflection of how agriculture continues to shape the identity and future of the region. Whether you're a lifelong farmer, an enthusiastic hobbyist, or a curious visitor, there's something for everyone at this vibrant celebration of land, livestock, and legacy.

A Vibrant Celebration of Agricultural Heritage

At its core, the Cookshire Agricultural Fair serves as a living tribute to the region’s farming roots. The event brings together farmers, artisans, families, and local businesses to celebrate not only their work, but the values of perseverance, stewardship, and collaboration that define rural life.

One of the fair’s most notable features is its livestock exhibitions, where animals are judged for quality, care, and breed standards. These exhibitions are a point of pride for both youth and experienced breeders alike, often representing months or years of dedicated effort.
Highlights of the livestock section include:

Dairy cow competitions showcasing top-quality breeds

Horse shows with traditional and performance-based judging

Small animal exhibits including rabbits, goats, and poultry

Interactive educational displays about animal husbandry

These exhibitions provide both entertainment and education, especially for urban visitors seeking to understand farm life firsthand.

Agricultural Competitions and Rural Excellence

Beyond livestock, the agricultural competitions are a true staple of the fair. These contests offer a friendly yet passionate stage for showcasing farming skills, produce, and craftsmanship.

Some of the most popular competitions include:

Produce and crop displays – Best vegetables, fruits, and grains judged by quality and presentation

Baking and preserves – Homemade pies, jams, breads, and pickled goods entered by locals of all ages

Handicrafts and needlework – Intricate quilts, knitting, and woodworking proudly presented by artisans

Tractor pulling and machinery showcases – Powerful demonstrations of farming equipment and operator skill

These contests are more than just entertainment—they represent a long-standing tradition of community pride, self-reliance, and friendly rivalry among neighbors.

Education Through Engagement: Workshops and Interactive Experiences

One of the defining features of the Cookshire Agricultural Fair is its strong emphasis on interactive learning. Far from being a passive experience, the fair encourages participation and offers hands-on activities that allow visitors to engage directly with farming practices and rural life.

Educational offerings often include:

Workshops for kids on planting, animal care, and food production

Demonstrations of traditional skills such as butter churning and wool spinning

Sustainability panels and talks led by local agricultural experts

Farm-to-table cooking classes featuring regional ingredients

By combining fun and learning, the fair helps promote awareness of food origins, responsible farming practices, and the importance of local agriculture—values that resonate with today’s environmentally conscious audience.

A True Family Event: Entertainment for All Ages

While agriculture is at the heart of the Cookshire Agricultural Fair, it’s the family-friendly atmosphere that makes the event especially memorable. The fairgrounds come alive with music, laughter, and the unmistakable buzz of a community gathered in celebration.

Favorite attractions for families include:

Petting zoos and pony rides

Midway games and carnival rides

Face painting and kids' zones

Live music performances featuring folk, country, and Quebecois artists

Evening fireworks and light displays

This balance of traditional agriculture and modern entertainment makes the fair ideal for multi-generational visits—where grandparents relive old memories and children create new ones.

Connecting the Community and Supporting the Local Economy

Events like the Cookshire Agricultural Fair play a crucial role in supporting regional identity and local businesses. The fair provides a highly visible platform for producers, artisans, food vendors, and service providers to share their offerings with both local and visiting audiences.

Economic and community benefits include:

Boosting tourism and local spending

Creating seasonal job opportunities

Offering exposure for emerging artisans and food entrepreneurs

Supporting regional pride and cultural preservation

Additionally, many fairgoers express appreciation for the way the event helps reconnect people to the origins of their food and the role of agriculture in society, especially in an increasingly urbanized world.

Tradition Meets Tomorrow: A Forward-Looking Fair

Though steeped in tradition, the Cookshire Agricultural Fair continues to evolve. Organizers have embraced modern concerns such as climate-conscious farming, sustainable food systems, and youth engagement. The fair isn’t just a snapshot of the past—it’s a conversation about the future of agriculture in Quebec and beyond.

In recent years, the fair has introduced:

Zero-waste initiatives and recycling programs

Green farming tech demonstrations

Youth-focused competitions and scholarships

Digital guides and event apps for easier navigation and scheduling

By combining legacy with progress, the fair ensures its continued relevance for future generations of farmers, citizens, and families.

Why the Cookshire Agricultural Fair Matters

The Cookshire Agricultural Fair is more than an event—it’s a powerful reminder of the resilience, creativity, and deep connection to the land that define rural communities in Quebec. Through livestock exhibitions, agricultural competitions, hands-on learning, and joyful celebration, the fair continues to honor its past while planting seeds for the future.

For anyone seeking to reconnect with rural life, support local producers, or simply enjoy a weekend of wholesome, community-driven fun, the Cookshire Agricultural Fair offers an experience that is both grounding and inspiring.

So mark your calendars and bring the whole family—it’s time to celebrate the pride of the Cookshire-Eaton region, where farming, heritage, and community come together in full bloom.

MeatEx Canada

MeatEx Canada is a dynamic event that revolves around one of the most valued food products in the world: meat. This specialized trade exhibition is poised to showcase the future of the meat industry, addressing crucial developments and innovations that will shape its trajectory. From high-tech processing facilities to cutting-edge trends in packaging and food safety, MeatEx is a platform where industry leaders come together to present their solutions to the evolving needs of meat processing and retail.

Taking place in Toronto, MeatEx will celebrate the quality and diversity of Canada’s meat industry, positioning itself as the foremost innovation hub for key players from around the globe. As the only specialized meat industry exhibition in the city, it offers a comprehensive showcase of meat products, machinery, equipment, and technologies that cater to various sectors, including meat retail, service, and processing.

The event is set to be a meeting point for B2B interactions across North America and beyond, welcoming esteemed international delegations and buyers. This unique gathering not only fosters connections but also highlights the shared commitment to advancing the standards of meat quality, encapsulated in the event's theme of #EatBetterMeat. Participants will explore the growing expectations surrounding meat quality, ensuring that both consumers and businesses can rely on the highest standards.

At MeatEx, attendees will witness first-hand the latest innovations in the industry, such as advancements in meat preservation techniques and state-of-the-art processing technologies that enhance efficiency and sustainability. The exhibition will also delve into packaging innovations that meet increasing demands for safety and environmental responsibility. By focusing on these critical areas, MeatEx is set to provide valuable insights into the meat industry’s future.

The event not only underscores the importance of quality but also reflects the shifting dynamics of consumer preferences and industry standards. With an emphasis on collaboration and knowledge sharing, MeatEx serves as an essential platform for discussing best practices and trends that will influence the global meat market.

In a world where food safety and quality are paramount, MeatEx Canada stands as a beacon of innovation and excellence. As the industry evolves, this exhibition promises to be an exciting glimpse into the future of meat production and trade, inviting all stakeholders to engage, learn, and connect in a vibrant marketplace dedicated to one of humanity’s most cherished food sources. Whether you're a producer, retailer, or simply passionate about quality meat, MeatEx is the event to attend for insights that will shape the future of the industry.

Ottawa Valley Farm Show

The Ottawa Valley Farm Show (OVFS) stands as a prominent event for farmers and industry professionals, offering a vital platform for networking, learning, and sharing knowledge within the agricultural community of the Ottawa Valley. With its rich history rooted in the seed show tradition, the OVFS continues to celebrate and honor the region's agricultural heritage while evolving to meet the needs of a modern farming audience. The show brings together hundreds of exhibitors who present a diverse range of agricultural products, equipment, and services, attracting attendees eager to discover the latest innovations and solutions for their operations.

A key highlight of the event is the Court of Honour, a dedicated space where the top entries from the Ottawa Valley Championship Seed, Feed, and Forage Show are proudly showcased. This prestigious segment of the OVFS allows participants to display their finest crops, products, and innovations, which are carefully evaluated by a team of expert judges. It serves not only as a celebration of the region's agricultural achievements but also as a reminder of the important role that quality seed, feed, and forage play in the success of farming operations. The show features nearly 200 exhibitors who enter upwards of 600 exhibits, ensuring a diverse and comprehensive representation of the best in the industry.

The OVFS is also a place of recognition, with the Ottawa Valley Seed Growers Association (OVSGA) hosting an annual Seed Show Awards Ceremony to honor the top-performing exhibitors. This recognition provides valuable exposure for those who demonstrate excellence in their field, encouraging continuous improvement and innovation in the region’s agricultural practices. For exhibitors, the OVFS is more than just an exhibition; it is an opportunity to gain well-deserved acknowledgment for their hard work and to foster connections that could lead to new business opportunities and collaborations.

Taking place at 4899 Uplands Drive in Ottawa, Ontario, the OVFS is a significant event for anyone involved in agriculture, whether they are farmers, service providers, or agricultural technology developers. The show provides an invaluable opportunity to stay up to date with industry trends, gain insights from experts, and discover the latest products that can enhance farming practices. For the Ottawa Valley's farming community, it remains a key annual gathering, one that continues to grow in importance and influence while remaining deeply connected to the region’s agricultural roots.

AG EXPO

AG Expo in Lethbridge, Canada, is a dynamic and highly anticipated event in the agricultural sector, drawing attention from industry professionals and enthusiasts alike. The event offers a diverse array of products and services that are integral to modern farming and agriculture. From agricultural machinery and equipment to natural fertilizers, animal husbandry materials, and seed cultivation technologies, AG Expo presents a comprehensive showcase of the latest innovations and trends in agriculture. 

One of the standout features of the Expo is its vast collection of agricultural products that cater to various facets of the industry. Visitors can explore a wide range of options, from advanced irrigation systems and chemical solutions to livestock products and farming services. The Expo also provides valuable insights into crop marketing and cultivation, making it an important event for farmers and agribusinesses looking to stay ahead of the curve. 

Throughout the event, there are dedicated sessions on seed growth and cultivation, offering both knowledge-sharing and hands-on demonstrations. These sessions provide practical advice on maximizing yield and improving farming techniques, addressing current challenges faced by the agricultural community. This focus on education and innovation is one of the reasons why AG Expo has become a highly recognized event in the agricultural world, attracting a large number of visitors each year. 

AG Expo is not just an exhibition; it's a vital meeting point for people passionate about agriculture. Whether you're a seasoned farmer, a new entrant in the industry, or simply someone interested in learning more about modern farming practices, the Expo offers a wealth of information, networking opportunities, and exposure to the cutting-edge technology that drives the agricultural sector forward. Its wide-ranging appeal and focus on both traditional and emerging farming methods make it an event that continues to grow in importance on the global agricultural calendar.

National Poultry Show

The National Poultry Show, held in partnership with the Poultry Industry Council, is returning to the Western Fair District – Agriplex in London, Ontario, bringing together the brightest minds and the latest advancements in the poultry industry. This renowned event, one of North America's premier poultry trade shows, provides a unique opportunity for industry professionals to come together and explore the newest technologies, innovations, and educational opportunities available in the field. Following the success of last year's strategic move to an earlier winter date, the show is set to welcome even more participants this year, as the timing helps to avoid the potential disruptions from spring migration seasons in Canada.

As always, the National Poultry Show serves as an important platform for showcasing cutting-edge developments in poultry farming, from new equipment and management techniques to innovative solutions for biosecurity, animal health, and sustainability. With a strong emphasis on education, the event offers a wealth of learning experiences for everyone involved, including farmers, producers, and suppliers. Whether it's through hands-on demonstrations, insightful seminars, or interactive exhibits, attendees can gain valuable insights that they can apply directly to their businesses and operations. 

The show is not only a showcase for technology but also an important networking opportunity. Bringing together experts, producers, and suppliers from across the continent, the National Poultry Show is a hub for collaboration and idea exchange, with attendees able to meet with leading industry figures, discuss current trends, and share experiences. The event also highlights the industry's ongoing commitment to improving poultry production standards and addressing the challenges faced by the sector.

This year’s edition promises to be another milestone in the continued growth and evolution of the poultry industry. With its combination of education, innovation, and networking, the National Poultry Show is an essential event for anyone involved in or interested in the future of poultry farming. As the show approaches, anticipation is building, and it is clear that this event will once again play a pivotal role in shaping the direction of the industry for years to come.