Lethbridge Exhibition Announces Major Overhaul, Splitting into Two New Organizations

A foundational shift is underway for one of the city's most storied institutions.

 

The  Lethbridge and District Exhibition is undergoing a complete transformation, splitting into two distinct entities to better serve the region's cultural and agricultural future.

 

This restructuring closes one chapter and opens another, creating a municipally-controlled corporation named Excite Lethbridge and the newly independent Lethbridge and District Agricultural Society.

 

The move is designed to inject new energy and focus into how major events are managed and promoted in the city.

 

Excite Lethbridge will now operate the massive Agri-Food Hub and Trade Centre, which has been officially renamed the Lethbridge Trade and Convention Centre.

 

Its core mission will be to attract a diverse range of events, concerts, and conventions, driving economic activity and community engagement.

 

Meanwhile, the Lethbridge and District Agricultural Society is returning to its historical roots, reviving the original 1897 name.

 

This organization will be run by a new board of community shareholders, championing the deep agricultural heritage of Southern Alberta.

 

Mayor Blaine Hyggen expressed his excitement for the new direction, emphasizing the goal of running the convention centre as efficiently as possible to benefit taxpayers.

 

He noted that keeping the state-of-the-art facility busy is crucial for the city's financial health and community spirit.

 

The two groups will not operate in isolation.

 

They will partner on legacy events that define our community, including the iconic Whoop-Up Days, farmers' markets, and the vital Ag Expo.

 

This partnership aims to blend commercial events with the grassroots agricultural spirit that is so important to Lethbridge.

 

RJ Sigurdson, the provincial Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, praised the collaboration, highlighting the immense opportunity to showcase Southern Alberta's world-class farmers and ranchers.

 

It’s a strategic pivot that officials believe will benefit the entire province.

 

To ensure a smooth transition, all current employees of the Lethbridge Exhibition will be moved under the Excite Lethbridge banner.

 

Leading the new events corporation will be a familiar face, as interim CEO Kim Gallucci has been appointed to the permanent role, providing stability and experienced leadership for this new venture.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

What is Excite Lethbridge?

 

Excite Lethbridge is a new municipally-controlled corporation responsible for operating the Lethbridge Trade and Convention Centre and attracting major events, trade shows, and conventions to the city.

 

Will Whoop-Up Days still happen?

 

Yes, Whoop-Up Days will continue. It will be co-hosted through a partnership between Excite Lethbridge and the new Lethbridge and District Agricultural Society, ensuring the beloved tradition carries on.

 

What is the new name for the Agri-Food Hub and Trade Centre?

 

The facility formerly known as the Agri-Food Hub and Trade Centre is now officially named the Lethbridge Trade and Convention Centre.