Fair season is getting underway across Southwestern Ontario, and the Aylmer Fair is preparing for its 178th year, with new attractions joining plenty of longtime favourites.
Randy Laur, President of the Aylmer and East Elgin Agricultural Society, said there is something happening across the fairgrounds for just about everyone.
Food will be a big part of the experience, with about 17 food and drink vendors expected. Laur’s Taffy will also return after the longtime fair favourite came back last year following an extended absence.
New this year are free pony rides and an antique tractor and farm machinery show on Sunday. The fair will also host the Elgin County 4-H Beef Show and the firefighter muster featuring teams from across southwestern Ontario.
Laur credits the fair’s longevity to strong community support.
Agriculture remains at the heart of the event, with home craft competitions, fruits and vegetables, crops and livestock shows. Saturday will include the Elgin County Holstein Show and 4-H Dairy Show.
Saturday night will also bring one of the fair’s biggest attractions — the demolition derby, including the return of a very different kind of derby.
Organizers expect between nine and 12 buses to compete.
Laur said his favourite part of the fair is simply watching the community come together.
After nearly 180 years of history, the Aylmer Fair continues to mix agricultural tradition with entertainment, food and a strong sense of community.
