The London Farm Show has been cancelled once again in 2022. Though the government announced on Jan. 20, 2022, that public health measures and restrictions would begin to be cautiously and gradually eased over the next few months if Omicron infections continued to trend downward, current restrictions still pose a very tight timeline to host a successful show of this size. With feedback from our valued show exhibitors, sponsors, and attendees, and the extended operation of the Agriplex as a vaccination centre, the decision to cancel this year’s event was necessary, the Western Fair Association (WFA) said in a release.
The WFA said the planning and coordination of the 2022 show season got under way last summer and management eagerly anticipated getting back to business in 2022, with the London Farm Show kicking off the show season.
“A strong roster of returning exhibitors were booked for 2022, with many new products, demonstrations, and competitions planned,” said Bridget Mahon, agriculture events manager for WFA. All exhibitors for the 2022 Farm Show will receive a full refund of their booth fees, along with the Association’s sincere thanks for everyone’s continued support.
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“It is never easy to make these decisions, and we appreciate the understanding of our exhibitors, sponsors, and attendees as we navigate yet another year inside a pandemic.” said Reg Ash, CEO, Western Fair Association. “We thank our staff for the time committed to prepare for this much anticipated show and for the continued loyalty, kindness and understanding, during these times, of all who participate and support the event.”
Mahon said in the release, “there are no plans for a virtual show, but to stay connected with our industry we will be launching a #Plant22 Snack Box featuring local businesses and packed with locally-sourced treats to keep producers fueled as they head into the fields this spring.” The boxes will feature snack items such as nuts, cookies, craft beer, and beef jerky and will go on sale in early March at www.londonfarmshow.com.
The London Farm Show plans to return March 8-10, 2023, with continued emphasis on agricultural technology, education, and farm improvement. “We are so disappointed to be in the same situation as last year, but we are eagerly anticipating next year for good reason,” said Mahon, “so many we spoke to as we evaluated our options, expressed how excited they had been for the show’s return and in the same breath, their disappointment that they would not be able to attend this year. We hope with that same anticipation we see every farmer in Southwestern Ontario at the show in 2023.”
