Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Convention a ‘don’t-miss event’ for horticultural growers

The Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Convention returns to Niagara Falls next month, with a large trade show, dozens of presentations, and plenty of extras to do. ~ OFVC photo

By Luke Edwards

The most important place for a horticultural farmer to spend their time is in the fields and orchards. But a close second might be the annual Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Convention.

Returning this February to the Niagara Falls Convention Centre, the OFVC offers a large trade show, dozens of expert presentations and networking opportunities throughout the two-day event.

“This is really a campus event. If you’re a grower, this is a don’t-miss event for sure because we have it all,” said Glenna Cairnie, general manager of the OFVC.

There are more than 200 exhibitors signed up for the trade show, which will offer visitors a chance to learn about new technology, equipment, and services, speaking with reps from the various companies and organizations.

“The trade show is off the charts, it’s very full,” Cairnie said.

Attendees can also take in a wide variety of presentations on several themes, from tender fruit and oenology, to legume vegetables, agritourism and flower production.

“The program’s powerful,” Cairnie said.

“There’s a big emphasis on technology…it’s not just one tech session, it’s embedded.”

That means attendees can expect to learn about the latest technology throughout the trade show, and in many of the sessions.

Beyond that, the convention is hosting a variety of extra events. These include a farmers and friends reception on Wednesday from 5 to 7 p.m. where visitors can enjoy some beverages and entertainment while meeting with other growers and experts.

There’s also a rise-and-shine breakfast on Thursday from 7:45 to 9:15 a.m. and a kickoff party on Tuesday evening before the convention gets started in earnest.

In fact, it’s some of those events that lead to Cairnie’s favourite aspect of the annual convention. While there was a time when people questioned the value of in-person events, she said that’s no longer the case, as most seem to realize the importance of face-to-face conversations.

And the convention gives visitors, and Cairnie herself, a chance to do just that.

“My favourite part always is meeting the people I email throughout the year,” she said.

The convention runs Wednesday, Feb. 18 and Thursday, Feb. 19 at the Niagara Falls Convention Centre. Tickets are on sale and early bird pricing is available until Feb. 11. For more information or to register, visit ofvc.ca.