Frontier Spirit Alive and Well at Battleford Northwest Territorial Days

Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
When the years add on to an event like Battleford’s Northwest Territorial Days, to the point where it is actually celebrating its 118th edition, one can truly affirm that traditions run deep.
Since 1887, this gathering—just a stone’s throw away from the former territorial seat of government—has entertained visitors and confirmed agriculture’s impact on the surrounding land and the people who inhabit it.

Once more, from August 16th to 19th, the Battlefords Agricultural Society has an opportunity to host a population inclined to make history and community perpetuate themselves.
Jocelyn Ritchie is one of the event organizers. 

“We just want to provide a week of entertainment. So much of what we do and what we are is rooted in agriculture that it just cannot be ignored. We have draft horse shows, and team driving competitions. This is not a skill that one just picks up. The drivers have to work with those hitches for quite some time to be able to handle these animals with such precision.”
There are obstacle courses for them to go through; hitches from two to eight horses; and many fans to encourage their local champions.

“Our four days of celebration are heralded with a parade through town the day before on the 15th. The parade runs in the evening, which makes it easier for local businesses that are open during the day. There is something for everybody at the Territorial Days,” Ritchie says.
What better way to get a taste of the essence of Saskatchewan than to come out and experience the livestock shows with sheep and light and heavy horses, and to see the exhibits around horticulture, arts and crafts, and needlework.

Even photography is featured, as well as beer and wine-making competitions. The Territorial Days have changed with the times in the hope of attracting as many as possible.
“Our grandstand entertainment has been trying to focus more on local talents in recent years – especially this year because it is Saskatchewan’s Centennial,” says Ritchie. “Leading up to the event, six juniors and six seniors have been selected for the talent final during our fair.”

The Northwest Territorial Days’ theme this year is “100 Years of Progress – 100 Years of Pride.” There is much to be proud of, and no doubt that the 20,000 or so visitors who are expected to attend will concur.

For more information, contact:

Jocelyn Ritchie
Battlefords Agricultural Society
(306) 445-2024
http://agsociety.com/

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