After reports this summer that it was moving to Saskatoon, the hosts of the Canadian Finals Rodeo since 1974 say the event is staying in Edmonton.
With what was expected to be the last go-round for the rodeo in Edmonton just days away, Northlands and the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association announced Wednesday they’ve reached a deal to stay at the Northlands Coliseum for two more years.
“Northlands has a rich history with rodeo,” said Tim Reid, President and CEO for Northlands, in a statement. “To ensure we keep that history alive for Edmontonians and Northern Alberta it is key to our organization and we are immensely proud to see the CFR in Edmonton through to 2018.”
“The economic impact when you combine CFR and Farmfair International is $50 million to our city. These two events put heads in beds; seats in restaurants and action in our streets. It is a great time to be in the Capital region and we look forward to showcasing the western lifestyle to all of our guests,” he continued.
After rejecting what was described as a final offer to keep it in Edmonton in March, the rodeo association signed a memorandum of understanding with the City of Saskatoon in July. Given Wednesday’s announcement, that deal has obviously fallen apart.
“Northlands has been our partner in the CFR for 43 years and we are proud to continue the tradition,” said the CPRA’s Jeff Robson. “This partnership allows us the opportunity to build a bigger, better CFR and surrounding events for the city.”
The 43rd Canadian Finals Rodeo will be held November 9-13.
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