Williamstown Fair offers new attractions, preserves traditions

Shawna O'Neill, TC Media
Williamstown Fair offers new attractions, preserves traditions
This year there will be 17 new inflatable rides at the fair. (Deposit photo).

WILLIAMSTOWN, Ontario – Canada’s oldest annual fair will celebrate its 207th year this summer from Aug. 10 to 12. Once again the fair will be providing family fun and will incorporate new attractions this year.

The fair is referred to as a ‘Heritage Fair with a family atmosphere’, and it incorporates a variety of programs, entertainment, competitions, rides, food and music for fairgoers of all ages.

“In order to maintain this reputation, the organizing committee constantly focuses on what they can do to make the fair more enjoyable for visitors every year,” said Ron Eamer in a press release.

This year the fair will incorporate 17 new inflatable rides, from alien laser tag, to a rock climbing slide, to a wipeout zone, which is similar to the obstacle course seen on the television show Wipeout.

“Continuing to focus on being ‘family friendly’, the committee has booked some 17 inflatable rides for the entertainment area, which will provide both challenges and fun for family members of all ages — from toddlers to adults,” said Eamer in a press release.

The fair will also hold a Teen Dance this year on Friday, Aug. 10 at 9 p.m. at Pine Stage. The Teen Dance was a successful incorporation from last year, when the fair celebrated Canada 150. During Canada 150 celebrations, the fair hung 10 provincial flags and three territorial flags at the Centre Stage in honour of our country.

Staying true to its roots, the fair will host an array of traditional activities, including but not limited to horse and cattle shows, woodworking, petting zoos, a talent contest, Karaoke Funfest, Farmer Olympics, a Highland dance competition, sheep shearing and herding, tug-of-war, the Quigley Highlanders Pipe Band and live music. Additionally, there will be concessions and vendors, an array of displays — like miniature trains and an exhibition hall and museum.

Weekend passes for all three days are available for $20 at some local businesses in Martintown, Williamstown and Lancaster prior to Aug. 1. After Aug. 1 the weekend passes will cost $25. Daily passes will be available at the gate for $12. Daily unlimited bracelets for the inflatable rides will be available for $15, while individual rides will be $3. For more information, visit www.williamstownfair.ca or the fair’s Facebook page.

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