Organizers promise ‘affordable, Canadian-focused’ event as Queen City Ex kicks off

The Queen City Ex kicked off on Wednesday. (Mick Favel / CTV News)

The Queen City Ex (QCX) is now underway, and organizers are saying this year’s event will be affordable, Canadian focused and an unforgettable time.

With the addition of West Coast Amusements (WCA), the midway looks considerably different with a selection of rides new to QCX.

“This is a big step for us. We’re excited to be here. We are going to do the best job we can. I’m very confident we’re going to make a lot of people happy,” Rob Hauser, WCA’s president said.

Survey results from the 2024 QCX reported affordability as a major factor for attendees.

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Leading up to the 2025 QCX, pricing for attendees was a planning point for organizers, as well as still hosting a financially successful event.

Cathleen Betker is the event manager of the QCX. She said months of number analysis went into making decisions for the fair.

“Where we landed was kind of in a middle point where we can still achieve our revenue, but it’s more approachable for the community,” she said.

A public concern for several past QCX events has been the level of security on site.

Metal detectors are returning at all entrances, as well as a visible police presence.

“We also do a lot of community outreach at events like this. We know a majority of our population is going to be here, so we want to be where the people are,” Sgt. Ross Kauk with the Regina Police Service said.

For those not planning on going on the rides, there are a variety of foods to try and activities to attend indoors.

An all-Canadian lineup of musical acts will also grace the stage each night, with Blue Rodeo scheduled to play on Wednesday evening.