DAWSON CREEK, B.C. - The Dawson Creek Exhibition and Stampede is gearing up for what organizers expect will be its busiest stretch of the week, with attendance already tracking ahead of last year’s pace following a strong start to the event.
While rainy weather on opening night may have kept some fairgoers at home, organizers say turnout rebounded quickly as conditions improved.
“We did get a little bit of rain on Wednesday night that maybe kept some of the crowd away,” said Murray Pratt, President of the Dawson Creek Exhibition Association. “But yesterday we had just a beautiful day and a good show all the way around. Lots of people.”
With Friday marking the beginning of the traditional Stampede weekend rush, organizers say they are now entering the busiest period of the event.
“The weekend is where it starts for real,” Pratt said. “This is our time to shine.”
The weekend lineup features professional rodeo action, including the Professional Massey Ferguson Tour and what organizers describe as the “ultimate rodeo weekend.”
Beyond the rodeo arena, visitors can expect a full slate of attractions and family-friendly entertainment.
Pratt said the grounds feature a variety of events, trick riders, activities for children and other attractions designed to keep guests entertained throughout the weekend.
Behind the scenes, organizers are also highlighting the efforts of the volunteers who help keep the event running smoothly.
“This is a big, big operation,” Pratt said. “We have a great group of volunteers that have been here many years. We rely on them to make this whole operation run.”
Despite the possibility of some unsettled weather, organizers remain optimistic and are encouraging residents from across the Peace Region to take part.
“We’ve got some clouds, maybe a shower or two, but we have cover under the grandstand and everything runs,” Pratt said. “I’d hope to see everybody come out for the weekend.”
Attendance numbers have also given organizers reason for optimism. Pratt said the first part of this year’s event appears to be outperforming last year’s turnout.
“Attendance-wise, we probably are ahead of last year for the first two days,” he said.
With rodeo action, midway attractions and a packed schedule of events still ahead, organizers are hoping the strong momentum carries through what is traditionally the busiest and most anticipated weekend of the Dawson Creek Exhibition and Stampede.