“We are trying to add to it every year,” says fair committee secretary Tammy Arthur, of the busy schedule of events taking place during the 196th edition of the Huntingdon Fair from August 8-11.
The theme for the parade to open this year’s fair is “Blue Jeans and Country Dreams.” Floats will line up starting at Prince-Arthur Park on Thursday evening for a 7 p.m. start, followed by the annual Firemen’s water ball competition and some high-flying action in the ring with the BCW wrestling gala.
Friday will feature a presentation by Pat’s Pet Show, the first night of the ASTTQ tractor pull double header, and live music by Ambush. The following day, visitors will enjoy antique and lawn tractor pulls, the 4-H showmanship and cattle show, the always competitive volleyball tournament, the horse show, Pat’s Pet Show, farm tractor and truck pulls, ASSTQ pulls, and music by the River Town Saints. Sunday will feature the demolition derby and the lawn tractor raffle draw.
Midway rides presented by Fun Show Amusements will be available throughout the weekend, as will the petting zoo and MAPAQ initiatives.
Arthur says many of the events are growing, including the 4-H show and the horse show, which this year will feature over 10 new classes including miniature horses and a flag race. The fair book with all the different classes and prize lists, including those for children, is available online, and there is still time to register before the August 2 deadline.
Arthur notes there have also been some improvements made to the site, including the addition of a giant gazebo that will offer families a shaded area during the day. The bathrooms are also being renovated and will be ready in time for the opening ceremonies.
“Everything comes down to our sponsors who help us, the participants, and the board of directors who work so hard,” says Arthur, who notes the fair also relies on a dedicated team of volunteers.
Arthur says that along with organizing the fair, the board is working to develop the site and keep the grounds in use more often. For example, employees at Rose LifeScience in Huntingdon use the volleyball courts during the week, as do employees from Maison Russet. The annual tractor parade in support of the Betty Riel Foundation will start and end at the fairgrounds on August 17, and come September 28, the monster trucks will rumble onto the grounds.
More information on the Huntingdon Fair is available online at foirehuntingdonfair.com.