Are you ready to experience the world’s largest indoor agricultural event?

From November 1 to 10, head to Toronto’s Exhibition Place for The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, lovingly referred to as “The Royal.” For close to a century, this event has allowed farmers, growers, producers and homesteaders from across the country have exhibited their very best agricultural products and livestock at The Royal. Take in The Royal Horse Show; up your culinary skills as you learn to cook alongside some of Toronto’s top chefs in daily hands-on cooking sessions; catch the RCMP Musical Ride (from November 1 to 3); or visit the many exhibitors, activity centres, demonstrations and shows taking place throughout the fair.

Stop by the York Durham Headwaters booth at the Enercare Centre's Heritage Court and get to know all the agri-tourism experiences available in the region and meet some local farmers and producers! Learn about agri-tourism’s connections to health, education, the people who make it shine, and what makes the regions, people, and terroir of York, Durham and Headwaters so special! We hope to see you there. Check out The Royal’s website for a schedule and admission fees.

Check out this video to get a taste of the Durham “aggies” who will be at the fair!

Spectra, operators of the Tribute Communities Centre, is helping guests with autism, dementia or traumatic brain injuries to enjoy events in greater comfort with the creation of Sensory Kits to be distributed during all events at the venue. The visual or auditory environment at the arena can be overwhelming for these guests, due to the bright lights and loud noises. Each kit contains: a small drawstring bag; a pair of noise reducing earmuffs and ear plugs; a pair of anti-glare glasses; a “fidget” toy; communication cards that allow nonverbal guests to communicate their mood and needs; an identification wristband (this can note the family’s location and contact number in the case of confusion or separation); a venue map outlining the main gates, family restrooms and elevators; and an event schedule (as available).

“Sensory Kits are important as it allows families to make memories and have experiences like everyone else,” stated Gail Smith, Spectra’s Assistant Ticketing Manager and Accessibility Coordinator at the Tribute Communities Centre. “Our Sensory Kits will make attending our events easier if guests know in advance a kit is ready and waiting for them to use.”

The sensory kits will help to provide guests with the best fan experience in Oshawa, and come on the heels of other recent accessibility projects: including the reconstruction of Red Tilson Lane; the new antenna for Hearing Assistance Devices; and Tribute Community Centre’s new website, scheduled to launch in 2020. The free Sensory Kits can be reserved online.