International Plowing Match: Sept. 16–20

August 20, 2014 · 0 Comments

The 2014 International Plowing Match and Rural Expo (2014 IPM) is an annual five day event that celebrates agriculture and rural living throughout Ontario. This year it is being held in Ivy, just minutes south of Barrie, September 16th to 20th. This year’s theme is “Good Old Days… Modern New Ways!” The last time it was held in Simcoe County was in 1997. Simcoe County has hosted the IPM five times within its 101 year history. The IPM is the only event of its kind in the province. Antique plowing, Horse Plowing and Conventional Plowing competitions will be featured at the Match!
Special Features of this year’s IPM will include an appearance by Olympic Gold Medalist Jennifer Jones and the OPP Golden Helmets, in the Opening Day Parade. Throughout the Match, entertainment will include the Square Dancing Tractors, the Canadian Cowgirls, the Ram Rodeo Tour, the Martels Rock & Roll Show, as well as local Simcoe County Musicians and Talent. Don’t miss Jason McCoy’s concert on Main Stage in Tented City on Saturday afternoon!
The special guest of honour for this year’s event is Keith Robinson. Keith will be celebrating 65 consecutive years of plowing the straight and narrow! Keith plowed in his first International Plowing Match when he was just nine years old! Keith is a very dedicated and accomplished plowman.
On Sunday, September 14th, an Old-Time Gospel Worship Service will take place at the Essa Agriplex. The service will start at 3 p.m. Proceeds from the Service will go to the Canadian Foodgrains Bank. Everyone is invited to join for a time of Refreshments and Fellowship, following the service!
The Simcoe County Quilt and Rug Show is being held this year, in Tented City. This area will contain many of the heritage crafts and guilds that are a proud part of Simcoe County. “The Barn Raising Project” is another featured exhibit with a Juried selection of 40 original, traditionally hooked rugs with the theme of “Rural Barns across Canada.” Talented artisans from Newfoundland to British Columbia have submitted entries to this project. The 2014 IPM is its first stop on the tour across Canada over the next three years. Watch for the Food and Lifestyles Tents where cooking demonstrations and fashion shows will be featured. The Farm Comes to Town program for schoolchildren will be featured in the Education area. A large farm Antique Display area in Tented City are also a must see for everyone!
Thirty young girls from across the province of Ontario will be competing for the Ontario Queen of the Furrow Title. Speeches, Interviews and Plowing are all part of their competition, throughout the Match.
The 2014 IPM offers something for everyone and the net proceeds of this event will be distributed to charities and organizations in Simcoe County.
An RV Park is conveniently located on the Match Site. Be Sure to Mark September 16th to 20th on your calendar!
For more information, contact Denise Brown, Media, Marketing, and Office Coordinator at 705 220-0389 or ipm2014office@gmail.com