This past Fall saw us attend many of the local fairs in the area, so when we contacted the Caledonia Fair and they gave us the ok to come down and cover the event for our readers, we jumped at the opportunity. Like other such events in the area, the Caledonia fair is spread out over a weekend and though we intended on taking the drive out to Caledonia on the Saturday, the weather was just not cooperating. It was a cold and rainy weekend and though the same continued into Sunday, we had no choice but to brave the inclement weather.

It was a cold, overcast and rainy Sunday morning when we arrived, but the elements seem to add to the overall atmosphere of the fair. I guess the farmers can’t have the weather dictate their everyday life, so why should it their showcase event. I could easily see that there would be serious parking woes if the weather was better, but since it wasn’t busy we got parking on the street very easily. As we made our way to the gates we doubted if the event was even open for the day yet, with the sparse crowd we saw inside. That looked more like staff and volunteers, than actual attendees. At least we had the entire place to ourselves.

Like the other fairs we covered (see below for links to those) this one had similar events and things to see. However the older buildings, the wide variety of baked goods and crafts, as well the slight drizzle of rain,  gave this one a traditional feel. Yes, it was a bit muddy as you walked over to where they were judging the livestock, but I somehow got a sort of “natural” feeling as I tried keep my shoes clean.

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Some firsts for me included, a funky colored chicken (see pics above), the largest pumpkin I’ve ever laid eyes on and sheep dressed in this sort of hooded coat where only their eyes were showing. Kinda freaky, but neat at the same time. It was also clear that the children in the surrounding area are very much involved in the fair, as there was a huge selection of submitted entries of crafts, baked goods and artwork. Kudos to the kids for their contributions to this wonderful event.

I can only imagine how spectacular an event this would be on a more sunny day, with the beautiful surroundings being situated directly on the banks of Grand River. We didn’t make time for any of the food that was on sale, now did we stick around for any of the derby events, but I know from speaking with other attendees that these events are quite lively and exciting to watch. This means we’ll have to make the trip again next year, providing the weather is better.

FYI, the Caledonia fair is organized and run by the Caledonia Agricultural Society and it’s in it’s 138 year. Here’s what the organizers have to say…

Every year at the fairgrounds on Highway 54 in Caledonia, we combine the traditions of the country fair – livestock shows, homecraft, food and the midway – with continuous entertainment to make Caledonia Fair a perfect Autumn outing for the entire family. From homemade pie to heavy horses – we have it all.

Caledonia Fair Info:

151 Caithness St E.
Caledonia, ON N3W 1C2
Phone: (905) 765-6861

Admission rates: http://www.caledoniafair.ca/PHP/admission.php

Getting there:

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