Taber Cornfest 2024 ready to rock Confederation Park

Posted on August 22, 2024 by Ryan Dahlman

By Heather Cameron
Southern Alberta Newspapers
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Taber Cornfest 2024 will run from August 22 to 24 at both Confederation Park in Taber and throughout town.

“From exciting activities and competitions to delicious food and lively performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy,” said Matthew Peleskey, co-chair of Taber Cornfest 2024 alongside Dave Klassen and Chase DeSchover. “This event showcases the best of our community, and we are grateful for the continued support that makes it all possible.”

Peleskey says that the events on Thursday, August 22 will include the ‘Kick off to Cornfest’ Saunders Insurance Barbecue, the Cornfest Parade 2024, the Opening Ceremonies and Live entertainment, an exciting Midway, and Beer Gardens and vendors.

The events on Friday, August 23, Peleskey says, will include the Western Tractor Pancake Breakfast, 1st Choice Savings Barbecue, stage entertainment, the MNP Cornfest Bull-a-rama, Pure Power Wrestling, Cornfest Market, Chili Cook-off, Cornbread Contest, Full Send BMX Stunt Show, Chinook Equipment Mighty Jump, New West Trucks Cirque Works, the Express Overhead Door Gaming Center FunZone, Kleen Slate Double Vision Twin Magic and Comedy, Home Hardware Bylsma Go-Karts, Wildrose Shows Midway, and the Taber Kinsmen Beer Gardens.

Peleskey says that events on Saturday, August 24 will include the IGA and Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast, the Gear Lords Car Club Show ‘n Shine, Home Hardware Bylsma Go-Karts, the Cornfest Market, the Lethbridge Polytechnic Corn Eating Competition, the Rogers Sugar Corn Tasting Event, the Pinnacle Corn Stuffing event hosted by D.A. Ferguson Horizon Christian Program, Kleen Slate Double Vision Twin Magic and Comedy, New West Trucks Cirque Works, the Full Send BMX Stunt Show, the Express Overhead Door Gaming Center Fun Zone, the Chinook Equipment Mighty Jump, the Brehaut Insurance Cornhole Competition, the Eagle Spirit Nest Community Tipi, the Wild Rose Shows Midway, the Taber Kinsmen Beer Gardens, stage entertainment, and fireworks.

On Sunday, August 25, Peleskey says, there will be a morning church service in the park. 

Peleskey says that more specific information about the events can be found by visiting the Taber Chamber website: taberchamber.ca or the Taber Chamber Facebook page Taber Cornfest – Facebook.

Peleskey says that Taber and District Chamber of Commerce directors and staff, along with volunteers and sponsors, provided all planning and supplies needed to make Cornfest 2024 a reality.

“Organizing Cornfest has allowed us to bring the community together, celebrate our local culture, and create lasting traditions,” said Peleskey. “Our fun, free event wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support from our community partners. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Town of Taber and the Municipal District of Taber, as well as the many volunteers and community groups who generously contribute their time and resources. Their dedication and collaboration are essential in making this event a success, and we deeply appreciate their ongoing support. We are deeply grateful for the support and participation of everyone involved, and we look forward to continuing this cherished event for many more years to come.”

Peleskey says that Cornfest originally began in 1985 as Hootenanny Days and ran as that for 10 years. Next year, Peleskey says, Taber Cornfest will celebrate its 40th year.

“We are immensely proud to host a free, family-friendly event of this caliber, which has been a cherished tradition for the past 39 years,” said Peleskey. “Our event brings together residents and visitors for three days filled with fun, entertainment, and community spirit. Join us as we celebrate 39 years of coming together to create lasting memories and strengthen our bonds.”