LLOYDMINSTER, AB/SK – Feb 9, 2026 — The Lloydminster Agricultural Exhibition Association (LAEA) is proud to announce that it has received the Innovation Award for Regional
Agricultural Societies at the 2026 Alberta Agricultural Societies Convention, recognizing the success of Mural Fest 2025, held during the Lloyd Ex Fair.
This marks the third Innovation Award earned by the Association, highlighting its ongoing commitment to creativity, community engagement, and forward-thinking programming.
Mural Fest 2025 transformed the Lloyd Ex Fairgrounds into a vibrant outdoor art gallery, featuring live mural creation by regional and provincial artists. The initiative brought together
agriculture, arts, and culture in a unique way, attracting new audiences, supporting local talent, and enhancing the overall fair experience.
“This award reflects the passion and dedication of our staff, volunteers, artists, and community partners,” said Jackie Tomayer, General Manager. “Mural Fest showcased how agricultural
societies can evolve, collaborate, and create meaningful experiences that connect people to our facilities and our community in new ways.”
Launched in 2025 with local artist Brandi Hofer, Mural Fest was designed to celebrate creativity while revitalizing public spaces at the Lloyd Ex and in the community of Lloydminster. The event encouraged community pride, increased foot traffic during the fair, and established a lasting visual legacy on the grounds and in our community.
The Alberta Agricultural Societies Innovation Award recognizes organizations that demonstrate leadership through innovative programming, partnerships, and community impact. Receiving
this award for the third time reinforces LAEA’s role as a provincial leader in agricultural society development.
“Thank you to the Government of Alberta for recognizing the importance of agricultural societies in our communities and the work they do that meaningfully impacts our
communities,” added Jackie Tomayer. “This support helps organizations like ours continue delivering innovative, inclusive, and impactful programming.”
“Our goal has always been to serve our community in fresh and meaningful ways,” added Jackie Tomayer. “This recognition motivates us to continue building programs that celebrate
agriculture while embracing new ideas.”
The Lloydminster Agricultural Exhibition Association extends its sincere thanks to Brandi Hofer for bringing the idea and hard work to this initiative, without Brandi’s vision, leadership and
willingness to collaborate this event wouldn’t have happened. Also, thanks to Mural Fest sponsors, partners, artists, volunteers, and community members who helped make Mural Fest
2025 a success.
Public art transforms spaces, it represents the heartbeat of our community!
“Last year’s Lloyd Mural Fest brought our community together in ways words can’t capture, walls, barriers, and streets became galleries, and residents and visitors alike paused to
experience creativity in one of our biggest local outdoor events! From bold murals to interactive installations, the festival showcased the power of art to connect people, spark joy,
and inspire wonder. Looking ahead to Lloyd Mural Fest 2026, we’re inviting artists, sponsors, and community members to be a part of the magic once again. Join us as we continue to
transform our city into a living, breathing gallery where creativity knows no bounds and imagination captures your hearts. Let’s make 2026 unforgettable.” Brandi Hofer
For more information about upcoming events and initiatives at the Lloyd Ex, visit www.lloydex.com or follow @LloydEx on social media
Image supplied by the Lloydminster Agricultural Exhibition Association
