Brandon Hog and Poultry Show returns to the Keystone Centre on Dec. 9, 2025, with a strong lineup that includes the popular Nest Run Egg Competition, the return of Hutterite Pie Baking Contest, and the long-standing Hog Carcass Competition – a major highlight for producers and pork quality.
Brought back by Cramer AG, Expo and Event Management Inc., the event gains fresh momentum after a hiatus. After only a few weeks of planning, over 80 of the 103 available units sold, with just a few left at the time of writing.
“It’s going to be a success,” said the show organizer. “I had no intention of doing more shows, but this one just made sense. I grew up in Manitoba – I know what Hog Days means.”
One of the first additions to the schedule is the Nest Run Egg Competition, open to all registered Manitoba egg producers. Each participant must submit 2.5 dozen unwashed, ungraded eggs from their hens by 2:00 p.m. on Nov. 28 to a location still to be announced. Eggs fall into three classes based on hen age: 19 – 34 weeks, 35 – 55 weeks, and over 55 weeks. Producers may submit one entry per class.
Judging takes place before the show and focuses on shell thickness and Haugh unit scores, a recognized measure of egg interior quality. Winners of each class, along with an overall champion, receive trophies during a formal presentation at 4:45 p.m. on Dec. 9 in the Manitoba Room. Winning eggs are displayed and sold in the Sale of Champions, with all proceeds going to charity.
“Eggs must be unwashed and ungraded,” say organizers. “And all judging decisions are final.”
Another major highlight is the return of the Hog Carcass Competition, a longtime Brandon tradition. This showcase gives pork producers the chance to demonstrate the quality of their hogs based on real carcass traits, judged in a transparent, impartial process.
“This competition shows what our producers can do,” the organizer says. “It’s an educational tool, a marketing showcase, and it raises a lot of money for local charities.” Over the years, the Carcass Competition has built a reputation for quality and generosity, and it continues to uphold that legacy in 2025.
Organizers also reintroduced the Hutterite Pie Baking Contest, based on successful contests in Swift Current and Great Falls. “It brings in the community and creates a fun, family atmosphere,” says the organizer. “We’ve done this in Saskatchewan and Montana, and it’s one of the most engaging parts of the event.”
The return of the pie contest offers a opportunity for Hutterite bakers to shine and attracts more visitors from surrounding communities. “That’s the key – connecting the industry with the community.”
In Montana, the expansion of hog and poultry farming fuels demand for shows like these. “Almost every colony in Montana runs 2,400 wean operations and has 50,000 layers. That’s why Great Falls grew from 50 booths to nearly 110. We’re moving to a bigger building next year.”
Swift Current also continues strong. “Next year marks 16 years since I started that show for my customers and suppliers at Cramer Livestock Nutrition. When I sold the company to Sollio, I kept the show side so I could stay in touch with the colony people.”
Back in Manitoba, the Brandon show already has traction. If exhibitor numbers exceed 103, organizers plan to open a second hall adjacent to the Manitoba Room. “But we’ll start with one room to keep it full and vibrant. A half-empty hall doesn’t work.”
Brandon Hog and Poultry Show almost disappeared when the previous board considered pausing the event. “If you cancel even for a year, it’s hard to bring it back. After four years, people lose interest.”
Now, interest builds fast. The show’s WhatsApp group, filled with Hutterite producers and industry players, buzzes with excitement. “They’re glad to see it coming back. The response is encouraging.”
The organizer shares Manitoba roots. “I’m from Carman. We had a hog and broiler operation. My father served on the hog board. After selling the farm, we worked for Schneider’s and Maple Leaf in procurement.”
With community support, industry backing, and events that blend fun and professionalism, Brandon Hog and Poultry Show promises to reconnect producers and showcase the best of Manitoba agriculture. From farm-fresh eggs to premium pork, from flaky pies to full trade show booths, it’s all on display Dec. 9.
The event’s goal is to celebrate the industry, connect the community, and give back to local charities—one egg, one pie, one carcass at a time. •
— By Harry Siemens