The carpets are rolled up and the exhibitors have gone home after the 39th Ag Days wrapped up on Thursday in Brandon.

This year saw over 500 trade show booths and more than 55 guest speakers, attracting close to 50,000 people to the Keystone Centre over the three days.

"I actually feel like the optimism was really high," general manager Kristen Phillips said on Thursday afternoon as the show was winding down. "You could feel energy in the building and you could see a lot of positivity. Some prices are really good now, so I know a lot of producers were able to book some really good prices for new crop in the fall, and I think that's always a really encouraging way to start the year off."

Ag Days general manager Kristen Phillips

Phillips said this year's Investor's Showcase, featuring 10 new products and 13 new inventions, was excellent, with very tight competition.

"The judges said it was the hardest judging they've ever had to do," she says, "they actually had to give honourable mentions this year, which normally we don't do."

Phillips said they are already planning for next year's show, which will be the 40th edition. She can't share any details yet, but says attendees will be in for a treat.