Beaverton Fall Fair set to celebrate agriculture and community

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

BROCK: The sights, sounds and traditions of autumn will return to Beaverton this weekend as the Beaverton Fall Fair brings two days of agriculture, entertainment, competition and community celebration to the fairgrounds.

The annual fair runs on Friday, September 18th and Saturday, September 19th, offering something for visitors of all ages, from livestock and homecraft exhibits to live entertainment, children's activities, a car show and the always-popular demolition derby.

Brock Township Mayor, Mike Jubb said, the fair remains an important part of the community calendar and a chance for residents to come together.

“The Beaverton Fall Fair is one of those events which really showcases what our community is all about,” Mayor Jubb said. “It brings families together, celebrates our agricultural heritage and gives people a chance to enjoy some great local entertainment.”

The weekend begins on Friday at noon when the fairgrounds and buildings open to the public. One of the traditional highlights will follow shortly afterward. The annual parade leaves the Beaverton Public Library, at 12:15 p.m., and makes its way to the fairgrounds for opening ceremonies, at approximately 12:45 p.m.

From there, the afternoon offers a full slate of activities, including: the Harold Lodwick Memorial Cross Country Run; pedal tractor pulls; an open sheep show; Extreme Dogs stunt performances; a flower design demonstration and children's building contests, featuring Jenga and Lego.

Young fairgoers can also enjoy balloons with a twist, a photo booth and a donut-eating contest, while visitors can take in the adult and junior homecraft displays and browse vendors and food offerings, both indoors and outdoors.

Friday evening will bring some of the fair's biggest attractions, including the Demo Cross, scheduled for 7 p.m. in the grandstands.

“There is really something for everyone, whether you're interested in agriculture, animals, entertainment or just spending some time with friends and neighbours,” Mayor Jubb explained. “It's a great opportunity to get out, enjoy Beaverton and support the volunteers who put so much work into making the fair happen.”

Saturday begins early with the Durham West 4-H Achievement Day, at 9 a.m., while a car show will fill the baseball diamond, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The horse ring will feature the Junior Gymkhana, at 9:30 a.m., followed by the open horse show at noon, while the arena will host agricultural competitions, including the open beef show.

There will also be horse-drawn wagon rides, a baby show, live music and performances throughout the day, along with more Extreme Dogs shows and pedal tractor pulls.

The Curling Club stage will feature a variety of entertainment, including: Meghan Bennet, the Woodville Line Dancers, Johnny Barron Country Music, the Wild and Free Dance Company, Jenn Hisko and a fashion show presented by Extoggery.

The grandstands will again be a focal point Saturday, with: a mini tractor pull, at 11:30 a.m., recording artist Alycia Hebert, at 7 p.m. and the demolition derby, beginning at 8 p.m.

For those looking for a quieter side of the fair, the homecraft displays provide a showcase for the talents of local residents, while agricultural exhibits and livestock competitions offer a reminder of the fair's long-standing connection to the area's rural community.

The fair also continues to offer plenty for younger visitors, including: a petting zoo and pony rides; video games, upstairs at the arena, and a full schedule of children's activities.

“Events like the Beaverton Fall Fair are important because they help keep those community traditions alive,” he said. “At the same time, every year there are new things to see and do, so there is always a reason to come back.”

Visitors should note, admission is required for everyone entering the fairgrounds, unless they have a pass. Bikes, skateboards, pets and alcohol are not permitted on the fairgrounds. The fair board also reserves the right to inspect backpacks and other bags before entry.

The Fair Office and table will be located at the Curling Club, while security systems will be in place at the arena and curling club, and the grounds will be patrolled throughout the event.

With agriculture, entertainment, competitions and plenty of familiar fair traditions packed into the two-day schedule, the Beaverton Fall Fair promises to once again provide a chance for residents and visitors to celebrate the community as summer gives way to autumn.

“I encourage everyone to come out, bring the family and enjoy everything the fair has to offer,” Mayor Jubb said. “It's a wonderful Beaverton tradition, and it's something our community should be proud of.”