International Plowing Match furrowing into west Niagara in September

The Ontario Plowman’s Association, with support of West Lincoln, Grimsby, Lincoln and Niagara Region, are set to welcome more than 70,000 visitors to west Niagara as they host this year’s International Plowing Match and Rural Expo (IPM), with its lively celebration of agriculture and rural living from September 16 to 20, 2025. During this time, IPM will transform the West Niagara Agricultural Centre and surrounding farmland in Grassie, into a vibrant tented city. 

The five-day event will feature daily entertainment, animal exhibits, demonstrations, hundreds of vendors, a diverse food selection, an RV park, a rodeo, and tractor and horse plowing competitions. 

With an estimated $25 million in economic impact, the IPM is a major tourism and business driver, generating both immediate revenue and long-term exposure for local municipalities and the region. Proceeds are also reinvested into the host community, supporting local organizations and initiatives.

Municipal and Regional representatives have been supporting the organizers in the IPM 2025 Local Committee and Ontario Plowmen’s Association regularly, to assist in planning efforts for this once-in-a-generation event. This marks the first time in nearly a century that the event will be hosted in West Niagara – the last time being in 1926, when the event was held in Niagara Falls and Welland. 

For more information on this event, visit the IPM 2025 website to find full event details. 

Quotes

“We are incredibly proud and fortunate to welcome the International Plowing Match and Rural Expo to west Niagara this fall. This event brings an unparalleled opportunity to showcase our vibrant rural communities, local businesses, and agricultural heritage on a provincial stage. The proceeds of the estimated $25 million economic impact will be reinvested directly into our community — supporting local organizations and initiatives that continue to make West Niagara such a special place. It’s not every day you get to be part of something this historic and we’re ready to roll out the welcome mat.”

Jeff Jordan, Mayor, Town of Grimsby

“Hosting the IPM is not only a celebration of our rich agricultural roots, it’s also tremendous economic and tourism opportunity that will benefit our entire region. West Lincoln is excited to see this showcase of innovation, tradition and the hardworking spirit that defines our agricultural sector. This event is a great opportunity to honour the farmers who feed our province and fuel our economy.”

Cheryl Ganann, Mayor, Township of West Lincoln

“We’re incredibly proud to welcome the IPM to west Niagara — it’s not just a chance to celebrate the thriving agricultural sector, but also a major opportunity to boost our local economies and showcase everything we have to offer. From world-class wineries and rich tourism experiences to breathtaking natural spaces, our region is full of unique places to explore. It’s a time to come together to celebrate local traditions, support our farmers, and show visitors the vibrant spirit of our community.”

Sandra Easton, Mayor, Town of Lincoln

“The International Plowing Match and Rural Expo is a true celebration of the agricultural roots and rural communities that form so much of Niagara’s history and identity. This exciting event will bring significant economic and tourism benefits to our region, and we look forward to welcoming visitors from across Ontario and beyond to experience Niagara.”

Jim Bradley, Regional Chair, Niagara Region

Get involved

The IPM offers many opportunities for businesses, organizations and individuals to support and participate in this iconic event. Explore the opportunities below.

• Become a volunteer
• Become a corporate partner
• Become an exhibitor
• Show antiques and historical displays
• Enter the beautification competition
• Sponsor a bench
• Enter the plowing competition
• Purchase the IPM 2025 cookbook

Media Contact:

Christina Davidson

Communications Specialist 

cdavidson@grimsby.ca | 905-945-9634