Aggie Days is Fun for the Whole Family

Did you know a one-year sheep produces enough wool to make a man's three-piece suit? Have you ever wondered how much milk a dairy cow can produce or how many days it takes a chick to hatch? Aggie Days, a celebration of agriculture and farm life, provides an "all senses, hands on" learning opportunity for urban families, in March at Stampede Park.

Targeted at ECS to Grade 6 students, Aggie Days is designed to increase children’s appreciation for and understanding of agriculture in Alberta. "Many students are unaware of the original source of their food products or the role that agriculture plays in their daily lives," notes Teri McKinnon, volunteer on the Calgary Stampede Agriculture Education Committee. "Aggie Days helps them make that connection between the producers and what they see in the supermarket."

With the help of more than 200 Calgary Stampede volunteers and 85 4-H Club members, students participate in a multi-sensory, interactive, educational fun-fest where they learn how fast a professional sheep shearer can harvest wool, what an ostrich egg feels like and how professional stock dogs can herd everything from cattle to ducks.

In 2002 more than 6,000 students participated in the Aggie Days school program, which takes place during the first three days, Wednesday through Friday.

On the last two days, Saturday and Sunday, Aggie Days is open to the public. "Whether you’re 9 or 90, there’s something for everyone," notes McKinnon.

More than 20,000 people will attend Aggie Days on the final two days, also known as Family Fun Days.

"Aggie Days is a vital part of our commitment to agriculture education in our community," says McKinnon, who adds, "Calgarians can look forward to more school programs held at Stampede Park thanks to newly established partnerships with Campus Calgary and Olds College."

To experience agriculture from the ground up, visit Aggie Days and learn the role and impact agriculture.