Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter
One of the biggest events in Northern Alberta is taking place this week in Falher, as the SARDA Ag Research Trade Show makes its comeback.
The event is widely noted as one of the most successful shows in Alberta, with over 100 different exhibitors, equipment displays and a large crowd of avid agricultural producers.
“We have 154 booths sold, making it a sold-out show,” says SARDA executive director Vance Yaremko.
“This is our main fundraiser for agricultural research that benefits local agriculture businesses and also businesses province and nationwide.”
The show will begin Thursday at noon and will run until 6 p.m. Friday hours are 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Seminars will also be hosted by a number of businesses, with a complete listing of times and businesses listed on the website at www.sarda.ca.
Making a comeback this year is the ever-popular pancake breakfast sponsored by NAPA Auto Parts (Falher) on Saturday morning from 8-10 a.m.
Also happening during the weekend is a Farm-Her Market hosted by the Northern Rural Chicks on Saturday, March 29 at the Smoky River Community Hall (formerly known as Centre Chevaliers) on Main Street in Falher. This event will have dozens of homemade, homegrown and home-crafted products for purchase through the vendors.
“This year we are welcoming unique vendors from all over the Peace Country as well as High Prairie, Grande Prairie, Valleyview, Edmonton and beyond,” Northern Rural Chicks president and founder Alex Brochu explains.
“From wine vendors to home decor and from chocolate delicacies to baking goods, we will have on site, vendors for everyone. We will also have a concession on site operated by Bobo Simard.”
Brochu says the Farm-Her Artisan Market is a great occasion to support local and Canadian-made products, with the Northern Rual Chicks hoping to host a very unique market.
Friday will boast a fundraiser for the Smoky River Outdoor Community Multisport Court called the Trade Show Hoedown. This will be a dinner with entertainment, auctions and prizes.
“Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and dinner will be served by Simard Butchers at 6:30 p.m. with a band to follow at 9 p.m.,” committee chair Christine Aubin says.
“There will be a variety of games available throughout the hall, giving attendees the option to participate at their own pace. Whether you’re looking to join in on the fun or simply enjoy the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”
Yaremko says he anticipates people from around the region and across the province will venture to the Falher Regional Recreation Complex to enjoy the show and plan their spring and fall wish lists.
Sponsorships are still being accepted and can be communicated through the trade show coordinator at smokyriveragtradeshow@gmail.com.