A day-long event since 1871, the Havelock Fair celebrated its 145th anniversary on Saturday, September 10th. The sunny weather made for a perfect fair day even with the humidity, welcoming over 3,000 guests through the gates—a record number for the fair, which is a particular favourite of Valley residents.
Fair organizers also noted an increase in the number of participants in both the horse shows and the 4-H competitions, as well as in the heavy horse show, with an entry coming all the way from the Eastern Townships for the afternoon. This year, the fair’s mantra “…the sun always shines at the Havelock Fair” certainly rang true.
The fair, which is dedicated to both showcasing the joys of rural life as well as promoting the importance of non-profits, touts everything from livestock exhibits to antique cars to craft displays (and a petting zoo, of course). While the absence of a midway might be noted by some, the fair’s dedication to maintaining a true agricultural celebration makes for a picturesque scene. As usual, many local charities and organizations were present, including Franklin Elementary, which was busy selling student-made candied apples and soaps to visitors. Traditional fair food was available, including pulled pork sandwiches and grillades, with the introduction of a few variations, including a savoury Shish Taouk stand, as well as a BBQ chicken meal, served up by the Hemmingford Legion.
According to one organizer, one of the main challenges in prepping for the fair is ensuring that the grounds are ready for guests. “Preparing the grounds is definitely an adventure, but the effort is definitely worth it come fair day,” said one of the organizers, Patricia Healy, of the work that volunteers put into getting the fair in working order. Healy and her husband have been attending the fair for as long as they can remember.
As for the summer of 2017, the organizing committee will carry on the tradition of the Havelock Fair, staying as true to history as the progression of time will allow. See you next year!
