PBR takes centre stage as Party in the Pasture roars back into St. Walburg

The idea emerged during an early planning meeting, when organizers began discussing ways to refresh the festival while maintaining the community atmosphere that has defined it for years.

“Somebody suggested during our first or second committee meeting, how about we try something different?” Nasby said. “And they suggested PBR.”

(Image Credit: Party in the Pasture)

The addition joins a weekend lineup that includes ATV and mud-racing events, supermodified racing, a slo-pitch tournament, a trade show, a kids’ zone, food vendors and evening entertainment.

Another major change this year is the trade show. For the first time, it is moving into the St. Walburg Community Hall and will be free to attend.

“So you no longer need to purchase a weekend pass or a day pass to enjoy the trade show.”

About 26 vendors have signed up, offering everything from baking and crafts to woodworking, 3D-printed products and snacks.

The festival also serves as a fundraiser for local facilities. Revenue beyond operating costs is typically reinvested into community infrastructure, including the arena, curling rink, bowling alley, community hall and ball diamonds.

“Essentially maintaining and upgrading our current facilities that keep St. Walburg family friendly, to be honest, is our number one goal each year,” Nasby said.

(Image Credit: Party in the Pasture)

As organizers prepare for the June 5-7 event, they expect strong interest in the inaugural bull-riding competition.

For those hoping to catch the action inside the arena, Nasby recommends arriving early.

“The one thing I would note is if anybody is planning to come for PBR, it is first come, first serve seating. So be prepared to get in there and get in line if you’re wanting to come in and watch the PBR.”

While the bull riding may be the headline attraction, Nasby believes the festival’s real strength comes from the people who make it happen.

“It is central to so many small communities in there and it’s driven by the community.”

Volunteers donate countless hours preparing the grounds, running events and cleaning up afterward.

“Our community comes together and does it all by themselves and as a team, and it’s just really community driven, and I think that’s why it’s so important.”

For one weekend each year, the population of St. Walburg swells dramatically. Although the village has roughly 670 residents, Party in the Pasture drew about 4,800 attendees last year.

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cjnbnews@pattisonmedia.com

by Kenneth Cheung

PBR takes centre stage as Party in the Pasture roars back into St. Walburg

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