Toronto has their little fair at the Exhibition grounds, but in Simcoe County the Barrie Fair is the real sign that summer is coming to an end.
The 164th annual Barrie Fair is this weekend and goes from Thursday to Sunday and will showcase some of the traditional draws that make a fair fun.
Elizabeth McCowan, the events manager for the Barrie Fair, says this year will be a huge weekend for the event which started with a surprisingly big crowd today.
“We’ve had tons of kids here this afternoon which was a pleasant surprise,” said McCowan. “Usually we have a few trickle in on the Thursday just to get ahead of the crowds but today we’ve seen a lot of kids and families enjoying the day. It’s always nice to see kids with their parents getting outdoors and at festivals like this and not having their noses in their phones or computers.”
Historically the fair has always been a place for local farmers and tradesmen to share products and ideas for future cooperation. Cattle were on display for purchasing as was other livestock that families would need for staying fed or for warmth such as chickens and sheep.
There were also many tools and farming equipment which would be on display for being sold or even just as a way to show off the latest technology. The farming factor will always be a major part of what the fair is about, says McCowan, and every year it appeals to new visitors.
“I dare say we have the best 4H show in Ontario with 100s of animals on display,” said McCowan. “As much of a big city Barrie is becoming, Simcoe County still has a lot of farming and the whole area has a long agricultural history. It’s also pretty neat to see how full circle the food industry has become as buying local is such a big thing nowadays; our local farmers are here and love nothing more than to answer any questions people may have.”
Over 150 volunteers put in thousands of hours to prepare for each fair so the many visitors can not only learn but also have fun.
Last year, approximately 40,000 people visited the Essa Agriplex, not only for the agricultural education, but also for the exciting entertainment that’s always a highlight. The midway is back and has all the rides and games you would expect. Another big draw are the events planned throughout the weekend at set times that get the crowds revved up.
“Oh the tractor pull is very popular and people love checking that out,” said McCowan. “Tonight is the Garden Tractor Pull which is for the smaller machines; if you have a riding mower at home this event is for you. Over the weekend we have the bigger trucks including this year we have the big semi-truck pull which is going to be very cool. But on Sunday is everyone’s favourite – the demolition derby. We get a big crowd for that and it’s a really exciting and loud event. There really is something for everyone at the fair as far as entertainment.”
The kids will love the K-9 agility competition and the gymnastics demonstrations as well as a salute to Canada 150 with the dance troupe Motus Dance Theatre who will be a new and exciting show. Motus will not only provide wonderful dance moves that are sure to dazzle, but also tell the history of fairs in an entertaining way.
McCowan is confident that whatever you’re looking to do this weekend, the Barrie Fair has it.
“Honestly you won’t leave disappointed,” said McCowan. “The games, the rides, the events and entertainment, there really is something for everyone. My favourite part though is seeing three generations of a family come in together and make memories that will last a lifetime; it’s a very special weekend on the community calendar for that reason.”
Tickets are $10 general admission with kids 5-12 being $5 and kids under 5 being free. A family pass (two adults, two children) is $25. A four-day general admission pass is $30 and a four-day children’s pass is $15.
All other information is on the website.
