Fergus fall fair a resounding success

FERGUS – The sportsplex grounds were sure put to use last weekend, as thousands of visitors flocked to the Fergus Fall Fair.

“It was wonderful to see the fairgrounds bustling with families, friends and community members throughout the entire weekend,” said Fergus Agricultural Society first vice president Dillon Bernier.

He added organizers “were absolutely thrilled with the attendance at this year’s 189th Fergus Fall Fair,” which ran from Sept. 18 to 20. 

This year’s attendance was just over 23,000, he said, up about 28 per cent over last year’s attendance of approximately 18,000. Friday night’s tractor pull was also one for the history books. 

“When we crunched the numbers, it was our best Friday night in fair history,” said Bernier. 

Between the midway, livestock shows, live demonstrations and the line up of food trucks and vendors, the Fergus fair remains a popular draw for area residents.

“This is our third or fourth year coming to the fair,” said Andrew Sperry of Guelph.

“It’s always a good time. I enjoy the Fergus Fall Fair.” 

Many other families attending the event agreed, and for some it has become a can’t-miss event. 

“One of the most rewarding things about the Fergus Fall Fair is hearing how much it means to people,” said Bernier.

“The theme that continued to emerge [when talking to guests] was the importance of tradition, community and connection. For many families, attending the fair is an annual tradition that has been passed down through generations.”

The weekend’s outdoor events weren’t the only ones bustling with activity; there was also a constant flow of visitors to the exhibit hall to view thousands of entries.

“Our baking aisle is packed, our knitting and crocheting aisle is packed, our youth walls are packed, like everything is packed,” said  exhibit hall volunteer Susan Harrop. 

“We get great support from the community entering exhibits. They support us huge in this community and we’re thankful for that.”

Asked if there was a particularly popular event, organizers simply couldn’t pick one.

“I would say the most popular aspect of the fair is just the overall experience our visitors have,” said Bernier. “From the agricultural competitions and livestock shows to the midway, entertainment and delicious fair food, visitors appreciate the variety of activities available throughout the weekend.”

He added, “What makes the Fergus Fall Fair so special is that it remains a true agricultural fair while continuing to evolve and offer new experiences for visitors of all ages.

“As we celebrate our 189th year, it is wonderful to see that the traditions that built this fair remain just as meaningful to our community today.”