OAAS News – Delta Fair
~ July 18th & 21st, 2024 – “Family Fun Since 1830!” ~
The 194th Delta Fair beckons with the promise of cherished memories and timeless traditions, echoing the theme “Family Fun Since 1830.” Nestled in the heart of Delta, a town steeped in history and brimming with charm, this annual extravaganza celebrates nearly two centuries of community spirit and joyous gatherings.
As visitors enter the fairgrounds, they are greeted by a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and aromas that ignite the senses and evoke a sense of nostalgia. The Delta Fair midway comes alive with the glow of vibrant lights and the laughter of children, offering an array of exhilarating rides and games that promise thrills for all ages.
Delicious scents waft through the air as families wander past rows of food stalls, indulging in classic fair fare such as cotton candy, caramel apples, and savory corn dogs. From traditional favorites to gourmet delights, there’s something to satisfy every craving and palate.
Live music fills the air, with toe-tapping performances by local bands and musicians adding to the festive atmosphere. Crowds gather to watch captivating displays of talent, from dazzling acrobatics to awe-inspiring magic shows, ensuring there’s never a dull moment at the Delta Fair.
The Delta Fair grounds buzz with excitement as families explore the myriad attractions and activities on offer. Children delight in petting zoos, pony rides, and face painting, while adults browse artisanal stalls brimming with handcrafted treasures and unique finds.
At the heart of the Delta Fair lies a deep sense of community and tradition, where generations come together to create cherished memories and celebrate shared heritage. Whether it’s reconnecting with old friends, sampling delectable treats, or simply basking in the joy of togetherness, the fair offers an experience that is both timeless and unforgettable.
As the sun sets on another day of festivities, families depart the Delta Fair with hearts full of laughter and memories, eagerly anticipating the next installment of this beloved tradition. For nearly two centuries, the Delta Fair has been a beacon of family fun, weaving a tapestry of joy and camaraderie that endures through the ages.
History of Agricultural Fairs
Fairs are almost as old as recorded history. There were two types of ancient fairs: trade shows and festivals. From the biblical “Fairs of Tyre” to Sturbridge Fair in medieval England, fairs were used as market places and carnivals. In the 1700’s the British crossed the agricultural improvement society with the traditional trade fair/carnival and agricultural fairs were born.
These agricultural fairs were transplanted to the colonies by the earliest British settlers. The concept of fairs soon flourished in agrarian North America. In Canada, the first agricultural society was formed in 1765 in Nova Scotia. Ontario followed suit in 1792 with the Agricultural Society of Upper Canada based at Niagara on the Lake. From the Ontario strongholds, the concept of agricultural fairs spread west with the first settlers.
After a few false starts, the system of agricultural societies and their fairs spread all over Ontario in the 1800’s. They were organized by county and township and at one time numbered over 500 in Ontario alone. While agricultural societies used many methods (of varying success) to improve agriculture and the rural lifestyle, they’re most enduring and endearing legacy was the agricultural fair. Industrial exhibitions and festivals came and went, but the fairs just carried on. Fairs soon became an ingrained part of Ontario’s (and indeed Canada’s) culture. They still are, in our society.
Ontario Fairs have changed since their inception, but they still carry on their mandate of promoting agriculture and the rural lifestyle.
Want to see modern tradition meet the modern world? Attend a fair!
Click HERE to visit the Deltahttp://deltafair.com/wordpress/ Fair website.
