Olds Agricultural Society

The Olds Agricultural Society, operating under the business registration number 119248359RR0001 and currently known as the Olds Regional Exhibition, is a longstanding Canadian nonprofit organization based in Olds, Alberta. It acts as a pivotal community hub and event venue celebrating the rich agricultural heritage of the region.

History

Established in 1899 by a group of local farmers and ranchers, the organization has served for over a century as the heartbeat of agricultural tradition and community engagement in Olds. It marked its 125th anniversary in 2024, highlighting its enduring role in fostering agriculture and rural lifestyle celebrations[2].

Mission and Activities

The society's mission centers on providing venues and facilitating events that support agricultural education, youth involvement, and rural community enhancement. This includes hosting livestock shows, competitions, and other signature events such as their annual Summer Synergy event, which awards $50,000 in scholarships to support young people passionate about agriculture[1].

Facilities

The Olds Agricultural Society manages several event facilities including the Cow Palace, Megadome, and Pavilion. These venues are used for a variety of events ranging from agricultural fairs and livestock exhibitions to community gatherings and private events. The facilities are designed to blend historical significance with modern convenience, accommodating diverse needs including event hosting and versatile storage for vehicles such as RVs and boats[1][4].

Community Impact

The organization is recognized as one of the essential pillar organizations within Olds, contributing significantly to the local economy and community identity. It serves a population of approximately 9,200 people in Olds and surrounding central Alberta, a region known for its agricultural productivity as well as industries in oil & gas and business[4].

Governance

The society is overseen by a leadership team including a president; as of the latest information, James Carpenter serves as president. It operates with the support of volunteers, community partners, and local businesses to fulfill its objectives and maintain its facilities[4].

This overview of the Olds Agricultural Society reflects its historical significance, ongoing community role, and dedication to agriculture and rural life in Alberta.

[1] https://oldsregionalexhibition.com [2] https://www.thealbertan.com/olds-news/olds-regional-exhibition-marking-125th-birthday-9529244 [3] https://oldsregionalexhibition.com/home [4] https://www.albertaagsocieties.ca/agsocieties/olds/olds-regional-exhibition/ [5] https://high.org/exhibition/hear-me-now/