Cape Breton Exhibition grounds receives millions for upgrades

A community hub in Cape Breton is receiving millions of dollars for upgrades.

All three levels of government are spending money to support upgrades at the Cape Breton Exhibition grounds. The project will allow the Cape Breton Exhibition Society to enhance accessibility, modernize facilities, and increase the capacity for larger audiences and events throughout the year.

“The Cape Breton Exhibition grounds hold a special place in our community’s history. This investment will not only preserve a long-standing local tradition, but also create new opportunities to host larger events and evolve into a year-round venue that supports community gatherings, local businesses and the next generation of Cape Breton traditions,” said Cape Breton Mayor Cecil Clarke in a news release Saturday.

In total, the project will cost $3.2 million. Of that, the provincial government is spending $1.3 million, the federal government and Cape Breton Regional Municipality are each spending $800,000, and the exhibition society is contributing $325,000.

The funding will go toward major upgrades to roofing, electrical systems, washroom and kitchen areas, fencing, foundations, drainage, and other areas.

“The contributions of all three levels of government ensure the long-term sustainability of the exhibition grounds, which is an important piece of event infrastructure, not only on the Northside, but for the entire Cape Breton Regional Municipality,” said exhibition society chair Donald MacNeil.

The announcement Saturday comes ahead of a major milestone for the grounds, which will host the 110th Cape Breton Exhibition in 2026. The five-day annual festival features performances and exhibits highlighting the region’s agricultural sector.

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