At 160 years old, the Ancaster Fair is probably the granddaddy of all the fairs locally, but it doesn’t show with their new fair grounds and the overall buzz of activity. I had the opportunity this fall to attend the Ancaster Fair as last year when we were invited I had some scheduling issues and had to be in the Caribbean for my sister’s wedding. We had been at the new Ancaster Fair grounds last year when we attended the Ancaster Home Show so I knew where I was going and didn’t have to call the GPS unit into use. Full directions can be found below.

I arrived early Sunday morning (the last day of 4 day fair) so finding a good parking spot was not an issue. Not only is there ample free parking, but it’s well organized, with tons of staff on duty to guide you.  On entry I immediately took a seat at one of the bleachers where the show jumping events wee taking place (south ring). The majesty of the horses and the ease at which the young ladies were handling them were quite a sight. I’ve never been into horseback riding, but I must admit that I left thinking I should someday give this a try.

The planning and management of the fair is very visible, from the time you enter the gates and you’re handed a program with maps etc, to the way everything is well marked… you can’t help but see that over the years they’ve perfected this.

Most of the food vendors were only just setting up for the expected crowds this last day of the Fair and the beautiful sunny weather would only encourage more crowds. But I could tell that there would be many delightful options for lunch on my way out. I worked my way through the many buildings (see pics below) and the displays and animals were all amazing to see. The hit of the day must be the Long Horn cattle and how could I forget Tom the turkey, who knew how to work anyone with a camera in hand. He did get a bit mad at me when I whispered that Thanksgiving was just a couple weeks away.

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Luckily for me, as I worked my way to the rear of the “Show Arena” the tractors were just being offloaded off the trailers for the tractor pull contest. I had front row seats to some powerful machines. The Derby Ring is well laid out and provided enough seats for a huge crowd as well. I didn’t stick around for any of the tractor or derby events but it did give me an opportunity  to see some classic farm machines.

The midway wasn’t unlike anything you’ve seen at fairs around the region (same games, rides and pricing) and it was within this section that the live musicians could be found, entertaining the sparse crowd (at that time of the day). The one good thing I did notice was that the midway was on paved ground, so even if it did rain you wouldn’t have to be waddling around in mud.

As I made my way though the “School Fair” building it took me back to when our girls were younger and would submit entries to the many craft contests. It’s always exciting to see how creative kids can be.

By this time I had gone through the coffee I entered with and my stomach was calling for something more solid. The lovely scent of burgers and sausages on the grill got my attention, but I opted for a batch of fresh cut fries instead. Lovely choice! The food was moderately priced and one could get something to eat, with a drink for about $5. Which is not bad when you consider you’re at a fair.

Ancaster Fair

630 Trinity Road
RR#1 Jerseyville
Ontario, L0R 1R0
Phone: 905-648-6198

The Ancaster Fair is organized by the  Ancaster Agricultural Society (A.A.S.).   The A.A.S. in a non-profit volunteer run organization.   The object of the Ancaster Agricultural Society, and all Agricultural Societies, is to encourage an awareness of agriculture and to promote improvements in the quality of life of persons living in an agricultural community.

Admission:
Adults $10.00
Kindergarten – Grade 8 $5.00
Pre School Free
Parking Free

*Check website for admission specials. www.Ancasterfair.ca

Without a doubt, the Ancaster Fair sets the standards for fairs as far as I’m concerned. The organization, the grounds, the friendly staff/volunteers and overall good time is unmatched in the fairs we’ve visited this year. On entry I did see that the HSR (Hamilton Street Railway – public transport) had a shuttle on site, but I’m not sure where one would catch that bus. But I’m sure if you check the official website (see above) for the Ancaster Fair, you’ll find that info.

BTW, if you plan on dropping of your kids at the fair, use the drop off area and not just have them exit your car on the street. It’s much safer using the designated drop off area and it will also bring them to the front gates without having to go through a maze.  Can’t wait for next year!
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