192nd Kingston Fair Starts Thursday

The 192^nd edition of the Kingston Fall is happening September 12-15 this year, and it’s a big attraction for  rural and urban residents alike. Presented by the Kingston & District Agricultural Society, the fall fair has been a tradition in Kingston since 1830, a unique combination of agricultural showcase and family entertainment. Last year's attendance was over 22,000 people.

This year’s line-up includes the World’s Finest Shows midway with one of the largest selections of rides in Eastern Ontario. Monster Truck Madness, the FMX Motorcycle Thrill Show and demolition derbies are also on the schedule, in addition to daily horse shows, 4-H competitions, beef and dairy shows and the annual Steer and Barrow Auction. Competitions in Homecrafts, Culinary Arts, Photography, and Flowers, Fruits and Vegetables will be on display. Artisan’s Alley is a showcase of local crafters, and a host of other vendors and food booths will be featured throughout the grounds.

Another traditional competition that’s returning this year is the Country Singing Showdown. New this year is the collaboration with The Buckle, a downtown country bar, where auditions were hosted earlier this summer to select the finalists. Adult finalists will compete for cash prizes at 7 pm Friday night, and the Junior winner will be selected Saturday afternoon at 2 pm. The finals will be a great show, with each competitor singing two songs to help the judges make their decision.

New this year is Kids' Era, a special activities tent just for kids age 2 and up, happening on Sunday from 10 am to 2 pm. The Bennett Barn will be full of agricultural education displays and interactive fun, as well as a petting farm just next door. In the Downey Barn, look for a display of chickens and newly hatched baby chicks. Kids can also take part in a colour contest to win a new bicycle--two winners to be selected in each age group, 6 and under and 7 to 10.

Advance ticket sales are available now through the website, at $10 for adults and $5 for ages 6 – 17. Children 5 and under are admitted free. There is limited parking at the Memorial Centre, and a $5 fee per vehicle. For a complete list of events and daily schedule, please visit www.kingstonfair.com or call 613-542-6701 ext. 2.