The Manitoba Agricultural Museum is celebrating a proud moment as its cornerstone summer event, the Manitoba Thresherman’s Reunion and Stampede, has been nominated for Festival or Event of the Year at the 2025 Manitoba Country Music Awards. Executive Director Elliot Sims says the recognition meant a great deal to the organization and its dedicated team. “We’re very honoured to be nominated for this prestigious award,” says Sims. “We always try to put on a great event and bring in excellent entertainment from across the province, and it’s just really flattering to be recognized for that.” Each year, the Manitoba Thresherman’s Reunion and Stampede draws visitors from across the province to the museum grounds in Austin, blending agricultural history with live music, local food, and family-friendly activities. The event has become a summer staple, celebrating both Manitoba’s rural roots and its vibrant arts scene. Sims says part of what makes the event special is its focus on homegrown talent. “For us as a summer festival, having local entertainment and having the opportunity to highlight it is really important. Whether you’re from MacGregor, Morden, or Winnipeg, we love to showcase individuals from Manitoba whose talent stands out anywhere.” While the Reunion and Stampede is best known for its vintage farm machinery displays and old-time demonstrations, it’s also earned a strong reputation as a music and entertainment destination. They have three stages running from late morning until the early hours of the next day, with country music, cultural performances, and family shows. The upcoming years hold even more to celebrate, as the Museum gears up for a major milestone. “In 2026, we’ll be celebrating the 70th Manitoba Thresherman’s Reunion and Stampede. While our roots are primarily in highlighting agricultural machinery and the people who use it, we’ve also developed a strong focus on entertainment. There’s a little bit of something for everyone,” he adds. Sims shares that it wouldn't be possible without the volunteers and performers who bring the Reunion and Stampede to life each summer. “We just can’t say enough to our volunteers for putting together such a great lineup and ensuring everything runs smoothly. And, of course, a huge thank you to all the entertainers who come to the Thresherman’s Reunion and Stampede every year. They make the show what it is.” The Manitoba Country Music Awards will take place at the Club Regent Casino and Event Centre on November 8. Whether or not the event takes home the top prize, it’s clear that the Manitoba Thresherman’s Reunion and Stampede has already earned a special place in the hearts of Manitobans and continues to grow with every summer gathering on the museum grounds. Sign up to get the latest local news headlines delivered directly to your inbox every afternoon. Send your news tips, story ideas, pictures, and videos to news@portageonline.com. PortageOnline encourages you to get your news directly from your trusted source by bookmarking this page and downloading the PortageOnline app.