2008 Message from the Managers

When you think about it, a lot has happened since 1984. Home computers have become commonplace, cell phones are the norm, and the Wilberforce Agricultural Fair has grown into a true community event.

That’s right. The biggest little fair around is celebrating its Silver Anniversary this August and we just can’t wait.

Aside from old favourites, we’ve added a slew of new and exciting events and displays. We’re kicking off the festivities on Friday night with the Teddy Bear Parade, Mom and Dad Calling Contest, Pony Pull, and our new County & Western Invitational Music show, where some of the area’s finest local talent will have a chance to shine. Bring your boots and prepare for a stompin’ good time.

As always, the Fair is geared towards family fun and entertainment. And, when the kids aren’t looking, we throw in a bit of education too at the antique farm machinery display and the Name That Tool contest.
Somewhere between the Minnow Races, Model Train Display, and Best-decorated Bike contest, there’ll be a chance to sit down with your family, friends, or neighbours and visit while enjoying corn-on-the-cob, prize-winning foods, and delicious ice cream. There’s also a food booth and plenty of room to picnic.

Don’t worry about the kids getting bored either. They’ll be fully occupied cuddling baby bunnies, visiting the animal display, watching goats get milked, and making their own skipping rope on an old-time rope maker. They can try their hand at working iron at the Beverly Forge’s interactive blacksmithing demonstration and enjoy playing instruments in our rhythm circle led by Barry Haywood – a popular event for all ages.
 
There’s face painting for the young ones as well as a colouring contest, and a chance to show off their best friend at the family dog show. And the whole family can enter the Scarecrow-making contest, or cheer on a tug-of war for older youth.

Youth 16 and under still get in for free and our Fair passport encourages education. Plus, those who have entered crafts, baking, or artwork, into the judged competitions also have the opportunity to win monetary prizes that just might help them buy enough ice cream or corn on the cob to see them through the day.

It’s all made possible by our wonderful advertisers, sponsors, and volunteers, as well as participants like you. So come on over and enjoy the biggest little fair around. We’d love to show you what we’ve learned in the last twenty-five years.