LAURIE WEIR
DELTA — There’ll be lawn mowers tearing up the turf, tractors pulling like hell, and pies lined up like beauty queens when the Delta Fair kicks off Thursday for its 195th run.
One of Ontario’s oldest country fairs, this four-day affair pulls out all the stops: midway rides, 4-H shows, live music, farm animals, and enough fries and fudge to make a grown farmer weep. It runs July 24 to 27 at the Delta fairgrounds, with daily highlights and something weird, wild or wonderful around every corner.
Hosted by the Delta Agricultural Society, here are some of the highlights you won’t want to miss.
Thursday, July 24
The gates open at 4 p.m., with the official opening ceremony and parade marching off at 6:30 through the heart of the village. Kids can hit the midway early, while parents scope out the homecraft displays where you can expect pickles, pies, and quilts that’ll make your great-aunt jealous. Animal Land opens Thursday evening, and the first live music hits the main stage around 7.
Friday, July 25
Livestock takes the spotlight. The poultry, sheep and swine shows start at 10 a.m. in the barns, with 4-H kids handling their animals like seasoned pros. The crowd favourite lawn mower races are back at 2 p.m. in the infield. It’s speed, noise and a lot of laughing. The fair stays open into the evening, with music and midway running until 10.
Saturday, July 26
Bring ear protection as the antique tractor pull fires up at 11 a.m. and runs into the afternoon. At 12:30, the homecraft pavilion turns into pie central, with judging for the blueberry and apple pie contests. There’s a classic car show nearby for those who prefer horsepower with chrome. And yes, the midway’s still going strong.
Sunday, July 27
Things get western in the horse ring with the Big Delta Play Days Stockman’s Games starting at 9 a.m. Kids will be barrel racing on ponies and herding cows (or at least pretending to) before noon. It’s a quieter day, with final prize pickups and a closing ceremony in the afternoon. Homecraft and vendor displays wind down by 3 p.m.
Don’t miss the parade that made a comeback last year, and is on again this year at 1 p.m. Sunday.
Admission is cash at the gate, and yes, parking is still free. Bonus points if you show up in cowboy boots and leave with straw in your hair.
More info here.
