Armstrong IPE starts tomorrow

The Armstrong IPE kicks off tomorrow.

After a two-year hiatus because of the pandemic, the five-day event is back, running from Aug. 31 to Sept. 4.

This year celebrates the Interior Provincial Exhibition's 121st year, with the first IPE being held in 1899.

Armstrong Interior Provincial Exhibition and Stampede manager Heather King said she thinks the fair's longevity comes down to one reason.

"We've stayed true to our community, we've stayed true to our agricultural roots," King said. "Our theme this year is 'Our roots run deep'… not only in the community but also in the agricultural world."

This year's IPE will hold all the usual favourites, with new fairground rides, music from an array of local bands, a rodeo, barn dance, and a parade.

There's mini chuckwagon racing, lumberjack shows, and a blacksmith demo. There are also hands-on agricultural demonstrations from goat milking and sheep shearing to honey extraction and wagon wheel building.

For the first time, there's a local artisan market happening Wednesday and Thursday and mini-golf throughout the event.

There are plenty of animals on display from horse pulls to piglets born just a day or two earlier.

There is also plenty of food and drink options.

"The highlights are as soon as you walk in the gate," King said.

An adult day pass is $22, with reduced prices for children, youth, and seniors.

For the full schedule of events and to buy tickets go here.

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