The weather's expected to look good as preparations have been going great with several volunteers already busy for the Threshermen's Reunion and Stampede's 65th Anniversary. It begins Thursday, July 25, in Austin.

The theme this year is 1954-era equipment, celebrating the year when the Threshermen's Reunion all began. 

"By the end of the week, we'll have over 700 volunteers who will be on the grounds putting on a fantastic show for our visitors," explains president Angie Klym. "Food, equipment, and premises -- you name it -- you will see volunteers all around. We have our lime tee-shirts this year, so you won't be able to miss our volunteers."

She highlights some of the events.

"We have put together a spectacular event for our visitors to come out and see," continues Klym. "When it comes to our special events, we will have stock dog trials on Sunday. Just a fantastic show for all ages to be able to see. We also have our fashion show."

Klym explains the significance of the theme this year.

"And of course, being the 65th anniversary, the highlight of our show this year is the era of the 50s," Klym says. "The Farrier Competition is back again on Saturday for its ninth year, that starts at 9:00 a.m. This is all about watching the experts from across the prairies compete in shoeing horses. And, of course, our classic car show."

She notes what is now antique style work with hydraulics was top-notch and state-of-the-art back in the day. The CFRY Pioneer Power Parade daily at 1:30 takes place and has the vintage machinery roll past the main grandstand for you to enjoy.

Visitors who are 65 years old enjoy a special privilege. If you were born in 1954, you just need to show ID and enjoy free admission on Thursday.

Something new for this year's event in the rodeo includes a half-time show by Thriller Trick Riders which is expected to be fantastic. A History of Harvesting display is also happening this year, from Shur-Gro Farm Services, and it demonstrates the wheat field being harvested by a variety of threshing machines and combines. All makes and models will be present, ranging from horse-power to near modern-day equipment.

The regular favourites will be on including the tour through the village, threshing after the parade, and even the famous sticky cinnamon buns as well as gazebo music including entertainment every day. Friday night has the old-time dance, which is always fun. The corn and barley corral also features different bands each evening.

Tickets cost $15 for adults taking you through until 5:00 p.m., $8.00 for children aged 6-12, children 5 and under are free. The evening after 5:00 p.m. sees admission at $5.00. If you buy the rodeo ticket, admission is already included. Four-day weekend passes are available for $50.00 per person.

For those who enjoy camping, there is always a space for public camping available.

Throughout the weekend Klym says there will be 11,000 people. She adds this week a couple came from Quebec who thought to stay the night on the grounds and saw the hustle and bustle. Klym notes, upon learning of the Reunion, they extended their time for the whole week and purchased their four-day passes. She says this is the charm of the annual event and the Ag Museum, that can easily be forgotten by those of us who are so familiar with it.

It all takes place on Highway 34.