The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair or the Royal is held during two weeks of November in Toronto. The fair's royal patron is Elizabeth II, as Queen of Canada and members of the Royal Family have been guests at the event multiple times. The fair gathers farmers, growers, and producers from all over Canada to show their best products and livestock. The highlight of the fair is The Royal Horse Show, one of the world’s best equestrian events. The fair also features The Country Music Culinary Festival, butter sculptures, animal theater, and square dancing. Royal Winter Fair admission ticket is $27.50.
The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair first came into existence in 1922 when, after World War I, farmers and horsemen, led by W. A. Dryden, got together to launch an exhibition. It was granted the Royal moniker by King George V of England. The exhibition was held in Royal Coliseum—an iconic structure that was built for this occasion and is a part of the Exhibition Place grounds.
About 300,000 annual visitors come to the Royal Fair to celebrate Canada's natural resources, try the best food, and watch the best horsemanship. In addition, over 6,000 animals are brought to Toronto, including cows, sheep, pigs, goats, rabbits, horses and ponies. The Burnbrae Food & Lifestyle Stage hosts local and international chef challenges, food tastings and plenty of entertainment. Visitors can feed and touch over 60 animals in the Pizza Pizza Petting Farm, and learn about farming at 13 educational centers.
