The Airdrie and District Agricultural Society’s annual Art of the Harvest takes place Saturday, Sept.16 at the Ag Society’s land located on Range Road 14 just west of Airdrie on Big Springs Road. The event officially goes from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., but get there at 9 a.m. if you want to catch the start of the popular tractor pull event.
Art of the Harvest was created to help Airdronians connect with the area’s history and to showcase operating antique equipment, as well as some old farming techniques like threshing grain, horse drawn plowing and digging of vegetables. Vegetables grown in the site’s garden are sold during the event, with any leftovers and all funds raised going to the Airdrie Food Bank.
There’s a blacksmith shop and farm school to explore – and even an ice cream-making opportunity.
“Yup. Molly the Mule takes to the treadmill to show people how it’s done!”, says Ag Society board director Kevin Fletcher. “We’re turning what was everyday work into fun activities for everyone involved.”
There will be horse-drawn wagon rides, fun games for kids, food trucks and musical performances by Pure Country. There’s no cost to attend the event, but donations to the Airdrie Food Bank or ADAS are welcomed.
Founded in 1909, the Airdrie and District Agricultural Society (ADAS) has weathered two pandemics, two world wars and they’re still on track with their purpose – to promote community awareness of agriculture, recreation and the environment.
Accomplishments include the creation of the now Ron Ebbesen Arena, acquiring lands for the Chinook Winds Ball Diamonds and launching the Annual Seed and Machinery Show, which has morphed into the Airdrie Home and Lifestyle Show.
This not-for-profit is particularly proud of its 4-H program, which awards two scholarships per year for those students wanting to combine their rural interest with their education. One of those is given primarily for agricultural studies, and one for students in other academic pursuits.
4-H students also participate in the National 4-H Exchange Program with funding and expenses. The ADAS also supports the Rural Education and Development Association, sponsoring youth to attend their annual camp, keeping a proud agricultural heritage alive and kicking.
To learn more about ADAS and their upcoming events,
check out airdrieagsociety.com
