Fans of summer tradition get fill of rides, food, fun at Ex

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This article was published 18/06/2024 (845 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Every year, the Red River Exhibition offers a mix of fun, food and the chance to make memories, and this year is no different.

The event familiarly known as the Ex officially opened on Friday at Red River Exhibition Park, 3977 Portage Ave., offering thrilling rides and magical performances for all ages.

Despite the chilly winds on Sunday, Winnipeggers thronged into the fairgrounds, with even the littlest ones braving the water rides (although strong winds meant some of the rides weren’t in operation).

Children’s laughter and shouts of excitement filled the air as carnival rides spun and buzzed. This year, the exhibition features about 60 rides on the midway — from classics such as the Tilt-A-Whirl and Giant Wheel to the extreme-thrill-rated Star Dancer and X-Drive — multiple live stages and more than 40 food vendors.

A notable addition is the emphasis on food trucks, each showcasing their most prized offerings known as “featured foods.”

One of the standout trucks is Kalesa Korner, where visitors can enjoy not only an array of Filipino dishes but also live performances by Via Vitug, a host at the restaurant located at 675 Jefferson Rd.

Vitug and standing manager John Matthew Rarboleda encouraged visitors to sing along while ordering their food, as classic tunes by ABBA blasted out over the speakers; some visitors even danced while placing their orders.

“We want people to have fun,” Rarboleda says. “Via came and we just gave her the mic and told her to sing. We both sing at the restaurant every other weekend.

“There’s a spirit of joy here that we want to continue throughout the week.”

Kalesa Korner’s featured food is sisig.

“It’s pork that’s boiled, then charred and grilled,” says Christina Flores, who owns the restaurant and food truck with her husband, Raul, who makes the bestselling dish.

Guests can vote for their favourite featured food on the Ex’s website, redriverex.com.

The exhibition also features a children’s corner with rides such as the Tea Cups and Dizzy Dragon, as well as a live stage. Three performances run throughout the day, including interactive shows by Team T&J that engage both kids and adults.

Throughout the fairgrounds, visitors may encounter various characters from films and video games, from Dino the dinosaur to Princess Peach.

One of those magical characters is Princess Elsa from animated film Frozen (the performer prefers to keep her real name private).

“It’s been just like a fairy tale. I’ve seen so many kiddos rush up to me, saying hello,” she says. “I love the performances at Kitty Corner with T&J, and seeing all the princesses; it’s been absolutely magical.”

Guests are invited to chat and take pictures with Elsa and other characters, which has been a highlight for many children, she says.

“Throughout the week, there will be more characters to come. So far, we’ve had Buzz Lightyear, Sonic, Belle and even Spider-Man in the parade today,” the princess says.

“Elsa” says she’s loved every minute of interacting with people.

“I love spreading joy and happiness. It’s an absolute dream being here.”

A market within the fairgrounds boasts diverse booths, offering everything from one-minute caricature drawings to henna applications, and a mini art gallery.

Cake-ology’s pastry chef and co-owner, Austin Granados, showcases an array of delectable pastries at his booth.

“It’s been really fun interacting with everyone and seeing people enjoy themselves, especially on the rides,” he says.

This is the second time at the exhibition for Cake-ology, which has a permanent location at 85 Albert St.

“The reception has been good so far. We’ve been doing long hours, waking up early, baking with my team, and then bringing everything over, setting up and staying until the end,” says the Kostuch Media Ltd. Top 30 Under 30 award winner for 2022.

Granados, who is featured in this year’s second season of the Food Network’s Summer Baking Championship, offers the flaky Breton pastry kouign-amann at his booth.

“It’s a staple in our bakery and a fan favourite,” he says.

Gate admission is $15, or visitors can purchase an event package, which includes all-day ride access, for $59.

The Ex runs through Sunday.

thandi.vera@freepress.mb.ca