​Bruce County, Brockton to showcase community spirit at 2026 IPM

Bruce County and the Municipality of Brockton are working together to support the 2026 International Plowing Match (IPM) and Rural Expo, taking place Sept. 22-26, in Walkerton.

For five days, the county and municipality will welcome visitors from across Ontario — and beyond — to experience a joint showcase, highlighting the region’s agricultural heritage, innovation, and vibrant community.

Hosted by the local IPM committee and the Ontario Plowmen’s Association, this is one of Canada’s largest outdoor agricultural events. Occurring in a different community each year, the it brings together farming traditions, education, demonstrations, entertainment, and rural experiences for all ages.

“The International Plowing Match is an opportunity to celebrate what makes Bruce County and Brockton special,” said Bruce County warden Luke Charbonneau “By working together on a shared showcase, we are highlighting the people, partnerships, and spirit that define our community. It’s an honour to work together to welcome everyone to experience an event with such deep roots in Ontario’s agricultural story.”

The schedule for the IPM is already taking shape, offering world-class plowing competitions, agricultural demonstrations, live entertainment, food, and family-friendly attractions. Advance tickets, family passes and reservations for accommodation on-site in the official IPM 2026 RV Park are available on-line.

"Hosting the International Plowing Match in Walkerton is a point of pride for Brockton,” said mayor Chis Peabody. “This event reflects the strength of our agricultural roots and the welcoming spirit of our community. We are pleased to work alongside Bruce County and the IPM committee to feature Brockton as a place that values tradition, collaboration, and rural excellence.”

Gord Lang, chairman of the 2026 IPM, is quick to note the opportunities available for local businesses, organizations, service groups and artisans to get involved.

“The success of the International Plowing Match depends on strong local partnerships," he said. "The support from Bruce County and the Municipality of Brockton is instrumental in creating a memorable experience. There’s also fantastic opportunity for the participation of exhibitors, sponsors and volunteers who will further enrich the experience for visitors, while highlighting everything this region has to offer."

Businesses, agricultural organizations, artisans, and community groups, who choose to participate as exhibitors, will see thousands of attendees throughout the five-day event. Sponsorship opportunities are also available to support the 2026 IPM while offering massive exposure to the diverse audience in attendance.

For complete details on attending, including purchasing tickets, RV Park reservations, as well as exhibition, sponsorship and volunteer opportunities, visit www.plowingmatch.org/ipm2026.