It’s time to celebrate agriculture and rural life at the Grand Valley Fall Fair from Sept. 21 to 23.
Fair president Jill Pogson says in the 2018 fair book that visitors will see new interactive demonstrations and activities that are planned for inside and outside.
Organizers opted out of a parade, as the Grand Valley Firefighters Association hosted a parade of its own earlier this year at the OFFA Convention in Grand Valley.
The 146th Grand Valley Fall Fair is billed as “an all-ages community event for agriculture, about agriculture and the rural way of life.”
Pogson said theme this year is “Sunflowers & Burlap” and “we are looking forward to seeing how exhibitors in each class will create beautiful and tasty components that relate to our theme.”
This year the Grand Valley Agricultural Society board has set entry fees at $10 for adults, and $5 for youth and children up to 18 years. Fairgoers can also pick up a weekend pass for $20 at local businesses until Sept. 20.
The official opening of the fair is on Friday night at 7pm and includes the ambassador competition and music by the Rooyakkers Family and Friends. Outside the lawn tractor pull starts at 6:30pm.
In addition to new interactive demonstrations and activities, on Saturday visitors will note “Strawmania” is included with gate entry and the livestock competitions are on the field.
Family farm displays this year will incorporate the theme, “The everyday operations of the family farm.” While the competition is open to all family members, the goal is to encourage young agriculturists to participate.
Pogson adds, “We will also be holding our version of ‘The Amazing Race’ for teams up to 16 years.”
Also new this year, the Demolition Derby will be presented by Edge MotorSports starting at noon.
Finally, at 6pm the Large Farm Tractor Pull will begin, followed by “King of the Pull” competition.
For those wanting music and dance, Pogson invites fairgoers to the Grand River Room for an age-of-majority dance at 9pm (separate admission).
The community church service is back Sunday morning at 9am and the Truck and Tractor Pull starts at noon.
“There are lots of fun and interesting events all weekend long,” stated Pogson. “Come out and enjoy your time …”
