The Carman Country Fair has been named as a Manitoba Star Celebration. The designation is an off-shoot of the long running Star Attraction program in the province and focuses on recurring festivals, events or gatherings that exemplify the provincial tourism brand.

Economic Development Officer Tyler King says this recognition is a great achievement for the Country Fair.

"(It) is a signature event in the province that has experiences that people will enjoy, (is) good for the family and that have been long-standing events that take place."

Already recognized as Star Celebrations in the region are the Corn and Apple Festival in Morden and the Thresherman's Reunion in Austin.

"It showcases that we're a very large festival. It is a three day event and it is fun for the whole family."

King adds this designation should help to promote this year's edition of the Country Fair, noting with the recognition comes additional marketing through Travel Manitoba.

"Travel Manitoba has it in their new vacation planner that's out now, there's a whole page that's dedicated to all of the Star Celebrations."

He describes another added benefit.

Another prerequisite in obtaining Star Celebration status is that the event must be described as experiential in nature.

"Trying to create immersive experiences that people will remember and want to come and explore and understand," explains King.

He says this means getting the audience and fair-goers out of the stands and becoming involved and interactive.

"We as a community have bought into experiential tourism because it is something that the province and Travel Manitoba do and strive for."

King adds work is underway to create additional new experiences for the 2016 Country Fair and is excited to see what the Secretary Manager comes up with.