The Queen City Ex (QCX), one of the staple events of the summer in Regina, is now underway at the REAL District. Gates open at noon daily, with fun and festivities running until midnight. Over the next five days, it’s expected thousands of people will visit the fairgrounds for entertainment, food, and musical performances. “What’s really beautiful about Queen City Ex is it not only reflects the best of Regina and the community we have here, but it also brings the world to Regina as well,” explained Kyle Russell, VP, Operations and Guest Experience, REAL District. There are several big names performing at the Original 16 Grandstand Stage, including Down With Webster and Arkells. Country musicians Billy Dean and Collin Raye kick things off Wednesday evening at 8 p.m. General admission to the concerts are included with a QCX Gate Admission Pass. The weather is forecast to reach over 30 C multiple times while the QCX is in Regina. A free water station with shade has been set up, as well as indoor entertainment scheduled for those who prefer to be inside during the day. Cat Betker, the director of events and guest experience, said a lot of work goes into what the QCX offers, taking into consideration what fairgoers want. “Having that kid stage. Memory lane is important to us. Having that agriculture entertainment speaks to our roots and where we come from,” she explained. Canadian-based West Coast Amusements are once again operating midway rides, including over a dozen in Kiddieland - with fun choices like Berry-Go-Round and Stampede Fever. Children must be at least two years old and 36 inches tall to ride. For the bigger kids-at-heart, Majorland offers over 20 rides, including popular choices like Sizzler, Supershot and Zero Gravity - as well as one of Russell’s favourites. “I love rides. The Zipper is a fan favourite, and it’s actually pretty rare within the Midway program, so we’re excited to have it here this year.” West Coast Amusements also provides a selection of games and treats. There are plenty of unique food options for adventurous eaters, including the Twista-Roni, deep-fried butter tarts, and a cookies n cream Korean hot dog, as well as several new options. “Every year we try to do something new,” says Chaminda Ambagaspitiye, Executive Chef, REAL District. “This year we’re doing dill pickle pizza. We want to have something crazy that people don’t think about.” In 2025, the QCX focused on affordability for fairgoers, which has remained in place this year. Betker said the QCX is working with many community partners to make the event accessible for all. “Affordability is a huge keystone for our planning. We want people to come out. We are doing a lot of work, and we are being mindful about it,” she said. The QCX runs until Sunday, Aug. 2.
