News release

Nova Scotia Provincial Exhibition Renovations Begin

Agriculture

Exhibitions, fairs and harness racing have been part of the traditional way of life in rural communities in the province for more than 100 years.

That is why government is making major improvements to the Nova Scotia Provincial Exhibition and Truro Raceway in Bible Hill, Colchester Co.

The $4.63 million project is one of more than 200 infrastructure projects that are part of the province’s $230 million investment to improve infrastructure, get Nova Scotians back to work and help get the economy moving again.

“Our exhibitions and fairs are amazing and unique events that show off the best of rural living and our agricultural heritage,” said Agriculture Minister Keith Colwell. “The improvements will rejuvenate the provincial exhibition site and make it a great place to hold events and see a race.”

Major renovations will be made to the structural, electrical, ventilation systems of the C.A. Douglas grandstand, which hosts harness racing and many community events. Other buildings on the exhibition site will also receive upgrades.

The renovations are underway and are expected to be completed by next March.

Quotes:

“The Nova Scotia Harness Racing Industry Association is excited to hear the announcement for the upgrades to the C.A. Douglas Grandstand at Truro Raceway. This is a positive investment for the harness racing industry, and we look forward to what other opportunities this could lead to.”

– Debbie Francis, president, Nova Scotia Harness Racing Industry Association

Quick Facts:

  • the Nova Scotia Provincial Exhibition is a 26 hectare site that hosts the largest annual provincial exhibition and is home to Truro Raceway
  • the first agricultural exhibition held in Truro was in 1876
  • the Truro Raceway is one of the oldest in the country, opening in 1865
  • other major harness racing sites in the province include Inverness Raceway and Northside Downs Raceway in Sydney

Additional Resources:

Nova Scotia Provincial Exhibition: https://www.nspe.ca/nspe

Province Invests $230 Million to Stimulate the Economy and Create Jobs: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20200527005