“Something for everyone” was on the agenda
at the 58th Annual North Thompson Fall Fair and
Rodeo held the Labour Day weekend in Barriere.
“It was great,” said North Thompson Fall Fair
and Rodeo Association (NTFFRA) president Jill
Hayward, “We had three full days of first rate family
entertainment that blended beautifully with our agricultural
fair.”
Hayward noted that the agricultural displays and
exhibits found throughout the fair were gauged
to encourage fair goers to learn about agriculture. “We
wanted people to learn about the food they eat, where it
comes from, and where it is produced close to home. I
think we did just that.”
“Over the years almost every family in this valley
has been a part of, or been touched by this event,” commented
Hayward, “All of the people who turn out each
year to help present the fair are very much appreciated.
Without them it just couldn’t happen. The fair is like one
big family that has an enormous annual reunion.”
Although all the numbers were not yet tabulated at
press time last week it looks like the gates were up on
Saturday and Sunday, even with a Sunday afternoon
rain storm.
“The grounds were truly packed,” said Hayward, “The
rodeo stands were filled to capacity and so was everywhere
else.”
She noted that the Saturday night cabaret dance
was an instant sell-out and the Sunday evening cowboy
concert was so well received it will become a tradition.
Saturday’s parade proved a favourite for many and
was graced with MLA Kevin Krueger, Leader of the NDP
Party Carol James, and NDP Federal Candidate Michael
Crawford.
“Fifty-eight years of tradition in the North Thompson
Valley is something to be proud of,” said Krueger during
the opening ceremonies, “The efforts of so many
people bring it all together and they should be commended.”
The official “Cowboy-up Baby” T-shirt for the event
was eagerly embraced by Barriere and area merchants
with well-over 200 shirts worn by staff in area businesses
during the Fall Fair week.
“We had a lot of fun with the limited edition T-shirts,”
said Hayward, “We’ve already got one designed for
Fair 2008.”
What’s planned for fair 59 next year?
“Wow, we’ve got some great plans,” said Hayward,
“Now we just have to cowboy-up and put them all into
play.”