Drayton Kinsmen Farm Show draws large crowds to see latest in agriculture

DRAYTON – The Drayton Kinsmen Farm Show made a successful return to the PMD arena complex after a three-year pandemic-related absence.

“Attendance was high … all in all, it went pretty well,” said Kinsmen Club member and farm show chair Ray Kuper.

He estimated around 2,500 people came through the doors for the two-day event on April 12 and 13.

It might have been more if not for the beautiful spring weather making it tough to lure farmers from their fields.

“We might have had a few more if it was raining – the weather was probably a bit of a factor,” Kuper said.

The complex was packed with exhibitors, filling the arena floor, auditorium and lobby area.

Drayton Kinsmen Farm Show chair Ray Kuper, left and Kinsman Chad Mackey man the club’s booth at the show, held April 12 and 13 at the PMD arena. Photo by Patrick Raftis

 

The massive show is organized by a club with a current membership of about 18.

However, Kuper pointed out, “This year we had some help from the Drayton Kinettes and the Legion, which is a huge benefit.”

The Kinsmen continued their practice of donating half the admission proceeds to the fight against Cystic Fibrosis, while the balance of the funds raised go toward the club’s many community betterment projects.

“Our purpose is ‘Serving the community’s greatest needs’ – so that’s basically what it’s going to be going to,” said Kuper.

The Kappers family of Moorefield were among those checking out the latest in farm equipment and technology at the The Drayton Kinsmen Farm Show held at the PMD arena on April 12 and 13. the show attracted an estimated 2,5000 visitors.

 

Township CAO Manny Baron and economic development and marketing coordaintor Aly Hill greeted visitors to the Mapleton booth at the Drayton Kinsmen Farm Show April 12 and 13 at the PMD arena.

 

Sarah Kiar was busy serving popcorn at the Hensall Co-op booth at the Drayton Kinsmen Farm Show on April 12.

The latest in farming technology was on display at the 2023 Drayton Kinsmen Farm Show.

Reporter