Lloyd Ex Fair Wraps Up Another Successful Year Despite Rain Challenges

Four days of unpredictable weather couldn’t dampen the spirit of one of Lloydminster’s longest-running summer traditions as the 121st 2026 Lloyd Ex Fair wrapped up Saturday evening after welcoming thousands of visitors through the gates.

While periods of heavy rain and thunderstorms created challenges throughout the week, organizers adapted quickly to ensure the majority of scheduled events continued with only a handful of changes.

Temporary midway closures occurred during the fair as severe rain showers moved through the area, but carnival rides reopened as conditions improved. The largest weather-related casualty came Friday when the scheduled Team Roping event had to be cancelled after the rodeo arena became too waterlogged for competition.

Heavy horse events were relocated elsewhere on the exhibition grounds to provide safer footing for competitors and animals, while one of the fair’s newest attractions, the inaugural World Class Gym (WCG) Farmer Games, was moved indoors to keep the competition running.

Originally scheduled for the outdoor exhibition grounds Friday afternoon, the Farmer Games featured athletes competing in four strength-based events including the Tractor Pull, Axle Clean & Press, Odd Object Carry and Wagon Wheel Deadlift. Moving the event indoors allowed competitors and spectators to enjoy the competition without interruption from the weather.

Saturday evening’s headline rock performance by Canadian band Toque also found a new home inside the WLS Convention Centre after organizers made the decision to move the concert indoors because of weather concerns. The venue change ensured fans were still able to enjoy the show in comfort while providing protection for performers and equipment.

Despite the rain, the fairgrounds remained busy throughout the four-day event with a packed schedule of entertainment.

The WLS Convention Centre once again served as a hub of activity with performances from Dolly Parton tribute artist Daphne Moens (who will be returning to the stage at the Lloydminster Vic Juba in October), hypnotist/mentalist Dale K, lounge entertainment throughout the week, and the popular beer gardens.

The Dick Jones Sales Pavilion hosted the always-popular Country Lane exhibit, while visitors also enjoyed the Tradeshow, Extreme Dogs demonstrations, horse pull competitions, sheep show, cattle dog trials, gymkhana events and the daily Mural Fest.

Families filled the grounds to experience midway rides, agricultural displays, livestock competitions, children’s activities and live entertainment, making the most of the fair despite occasional delays caused by the weather.

Leading this year’s parade was Jarrod Russell, who was named the 2026 Lloyd Ex Fair Parade Marshal.

Throughout the four days, volunteers, exhibitors, entertainers, competitors and staff demonstrated remarkable flexibility as changing weather conditions required adjustments to schedules and venues. Their efforts ensured visitors still experienced the traditions that have made the Lloyd Ex Fair a summer favourite for generations.

While umbrellas became common sights across the grounds, the 2026 Lloyd Ex Fair proved that even Mother Nature couldn’t overshadow the community spirit that continues to make the annual event one of Lloydminster’s signature celebrations.