REGINA – With temperatures climbing into the low 30s over the next several days, Queen City Ex organizers want fairgoers to know they can stay cool, hydrated and comfortable while still making the most of one of Saskatchewan's biggest summer traditions.
The Queen City Ex kicked off Wednesday and continues through Sunday at the REAL District, bringing five days of midway rides, concerts, family entertainment, food and attractions. Organizers say a little planning can go a long way toward beating the heat while enjoying everything the fair has to offer.
"We've got two large shade tents on the midway with picnic tables as a rest area," said Cat Betker, Director of Signature Events for the REAL District.
"We're standing in front of the Culligan hydration station. Wonderful partner. They've provided us with all kinds of water accessible for the public, so that you can fill up your water bottle, stay hydrated."
Betker said visitors will find another water refill station along the midway, water fountains throughout the grounds and several air-conditioned buildings where they can escape the afternoon heat.
"We've got another refill station on the midway. And then, of course, you can head indoors where we've got some air conditioning, help cool down. We've got water fountains on the property. We're trying to keep everybody safe in this heat. Come on down and enjoy everything that Queen City X has to offer."
One of the smartest ways to enjoy the fair is to schedule your day around the weather. During the hottest part of the afternoon, visitors can cool off inside air-conditioned facilities such as the Brandt Centre, the Viterra International Trade Centre and the AffinityPlex before heading back outside later in the day when temperatures begin to ease. The Queen City Ex also features indoor exhibits, vendors and family attractions, making it easy to stay entertained while avoiding the strongest sunshine.
Hydration is just as important as finding shade. While drinking plenty of water is essential, experts also recommend replacing electrolytes lost through sweating during prolonged heat. That makes some of the midway's classic foods surprisingly helpful after spending hours walking the grounds. A salty pretzel, pickle-on-a-stick, corn dog or sports drink can help replenish sodium and potassium while giving your body the fuel it needs to keep going.
It's also worth remembering that the pavement and midway can feel significantly hotter than the official air temperature. Wearing light-coloured clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen, while taking regular breaks in the shade, can help prevent heat exhaustion. Families with young children, older adults and anyone with underlying health conditions should be especially mindful of the heat.
As the sun begins to set, many of the fair's biggest attractions become even more enjoyable. The midway lights come alive, temperatures become far more comfortable and the nightly entertainment at the Original 16 Grandstand Stage gets underway, making the evening one of the best times to experience the excitement of the Queen City Ex. Admission also includes access to that evening's Grandstand concert.
Running daily from noon until midnight through Sunday, the Queen City Ex offers everything from thrilling rides and live music to family entertainment, agricultural exhibits, interactive attractions and classic fair food, giving visitors plenty of reasons to spend an entire day making summer memories.
Betker says the goal is simple: make sure everyone has a safe, enjoyable visit no matter how hot it gets.
"We've got another refill station on the midway. And then, of course, you can head indoors where we've got some air conditioning, help cool down. We've got water fountains on the property. We're trying to keep everybody safe in this heat. Come on down and enjoy everything that Queen City X has to offer."
