The CAN-AM horses return Apple Blossom weekend

By Christy Marsters

The Hants Journal/NovaNewsNow.com

The CAN-AM All Breeds Equine Emporium and the Windsor Better Living Show will once again be teaming up in Windsor to host an extravaganza Apple Blossom weekend.

This extravaganza, sponsored by Home Hardware, will take place at the Exhibition Arena May 29-31. Advanced tickets are now available online at www.canamequine.ca.

President Paul Maguire said he’s excited to return to the Annapolis Valley, as last year the event was very popular in Windsor. “Tickets sold out two of three nights we performed.”

The equine opportunities in the Annapolis Valley might be one of the best-kept secrets of this beautiful area, Maguire said. “And, the enthusiasm of Maritimers is second to none.”

CAN-AM is planning to return despite a loss in profits last year, but both the Municipality of West Hants and the Town of Windsor are now considering offering $2,500 each to help compensate for losses in 2008 and this is expected to be an investment well returned.

Last year was not profitable and that was predictable because it does take a couple years to really get the word out, Maguire said. “But, this will be a better stop in years to come.”

Windsor tourism director VanEssa Roberts said to put on a show of this calibre and to bring it to a market place like this it’s difficult to charge people for what the show is actually worth. “But, we are committed to the show and the value it brings…, she said, “and we’re working to make it a profitable venture… It is good for the Town of Windsor to have these types of events.”

Last year, visitors came in from Maine, PEI, New Brunswick and Ontario because of this event and it’s great that Windsor has this as such a big event as part of the Apple Blossom Festival, Roberts said. “Apple Blossom is meant to promote the Valley… and this event is ours.”

The CAN-AM Equine Emporium is really unique because it is an event for all breeds of horse, Roberts said. “But, it’s not only for horse enthusiasts. There are stunts and dancing horses and rodeo clowns …food, stabling and fencing; there’s something for everyone.”

CAN-AM Equine will feature clinics, seminars, demonstrations, and a tradeshow during its three-day stay in Windsor. The Canadian Cowgirls will be returning again this year by popular demands and Tracy Porter of Fredericton will also be performing for a first time in Windsor and is expected to put on an exciting show. A Musical Tribute to the House is also being highlighted as an exciting event of both amateur and professional performers.

For more information visit www.canamequine.ca or call (519) 421-1189 -- until May 23.