The Bayfield Fair is just a week away in its celebration of rural Ontario. Animals are a major part of rural life. The fair always has a wonderful collection of animals displayed in Old Macdonald’s barn. There are lots of young birds, ducks, goats, rabbits, a horse, possibly a pig, and many last minute surprises. The animal display is looked after by young people and if there are some young folks who want to be part of this team, John Siertsema, 565-2479 or Clay Siertsema, 565-2396.
The land in Huron is some of the most productive in the province. Many only rely on a small patch to grow vegetables for their own consumption. There are a number of people who enjoy the fun of bringing in some of their vegetables and/or flowers to compete against others who have faced this wet summer. All exhibits can be brought in for competition on Thursday August 13 from 7 – 9 p.m. or Friday August 14 from 9 to 11:45 a.m. There are always people available to help with the carrying in of displays or with helping prepare any entry. If there are questions about how to prepare the vegetables or flowers, ask the convenors or post the question on the website www.bayfieldfair.ca.
Rural Ontario loves its music. The fair has 5 young people performing on its Youth Stage all afternoon on Saturday August 15. It’s a great opportunity to see and hear the area youth demonstrate their talents. Ava Dawe, Serena Rutledge, Holly Clausius, Sarah Hoy, and Mary Paige St. Onge are indicative of the wealth of musical talent in the area. Further information on their musical endeavours can be found on the website. Music will be heard at the Rise2Fame/Youth Talent Show on Saturday evening. At this event many young people will challenge the judges to choose them as the best in their age group. The Carnival Music Festival will also be held on Saturday evening from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Trent Severn will be opening this licensed event. The trio are from Stratford with a folk, roots, and old country sound. If you wear plaid you will make them feel at home immediately. The band headlining the evening is The Sadies. The Sadies are a Canadian rock and roll / country and western band formed in Toronto.
The Bayfield Fair is one way to view our local portion of rural Ontario with the theme “Blue Jeans and Machines”. As next year is the 160 fair, we are looking for ideas, volunteers, and sponsors/supporters to take it into another new and exciting decade.