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Open Skies: Expo & Awards

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Celebrating the best of rural living! 
 
Open Skies Expo & Awards is a signature event by the County of Barrhead, and your chance to discover the services, businesses & opportunities that make our County such a great place to call home. 
 
Whether you're a young family dreaming of country life, a retiree planning your next chapter, or a longtime resident eager to see what's new, there's something for everyone! Come connect, explore, and celebrate everything that makes life in our County so special.
 
Our 2026 expo was held on Saturday, April 11, 2026. Learn more about this event with the 2026 Open Skies Summary Report! 

 
Vendors & Exhibitors
The Expo features a hall filled with exhibitors & service providers that can help you thrive in rural life! 
 
Are you a County-based business or service provider interested in becoming an exhibitor next year? This can be a great opportunity to promote your services, get face-to-face interaction with a rural audience, increase visibility, and showcase new products.
 
There's no charge for exhibitors to participate, but space is limited! Tradeshow tables are first-come, first-serve, so make sure to express your interest early. Call us at 780-674-3331 or email info@countybarrhead.ab.ca to sign up as a vendor or exhibitor.  
 
Check out the 2026 Open Skies Summary Report to learn which vendors attended last year!
 
Workshops & Presentations
Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed FREE presentations on special topics of interest to rural landowners, including "Soil Testing at Home", presented by Gateway Research Organization.

Appreciation & Awards Dinner
Open Skies concludes with our annual Appreciation Dinner. This is our chance to give back to residents, recognize impactful individuals, organizations, & community leaders, present local awards, and showcase farms & businesses that make a difference in our community. The event will include a delicious catered dinner, followed by award presentations & guest speakers.

2026 Award Recipients & Speakers:
  • Borealis Acres, Farm Spotlight 
    • Enjoy a special presentation on Shire Horses!
  • Van Loon Family, Farm Family Award Recipient
    • Recognized by Alberta Association of Ag Societies
  • Calvin & Robin Young, Honor Roll Recipient
    • Recognized by Alberta Association of Ag Societies
  • Joanne Wallace, Certificate of Achievement
    • Prime Minister's Teaching Excellence Award
  • Rural Beautification Awards
    • Presented by County of Barrhead