Three days chock-full of family fun and festivities fill Exhibition Park Aug. 3 to 5 as the Abbotsford Agrifair celebrates family and community.
With family-friendly pricing and entertainment for all ages, this year is better than ever. “It’s family focused – that’s the whole goal,” says Agrifair’s Melanie Kish. “At the same time, we want to teach people about the importance of our local agriculture.”
More than 100 sponsors make the event possible – with administration costs covered by gaming grants, sponsor contributions all help create amazing experiences.
“The Agrifair isn’t just an event, it’s a community partnership,” Kish says, inviting more sponsors and volunteers aboard.
What’s happening this year? Here’s some things you don’t want to miss:
1. Family-friendly pricing: A not-for-profit organization, Agrifair aims to keep fun affordable. Kids 10 and younger are free; students/seniors are $10 and one-day adult admission is $12. Three-day passes are $18 for greater savings.
2. Twoonie Day on the Midway: To save on the midway, Friday’s ride day special is just $2 a ride from noon to 3 p.m.!
3. Family Time: The Fraser Way RV Family Fun Building is a getaway for families – see Science World shows, Parrots that Purr, Lego and more, and browse on-site vendors. “It’s a way to get families out of the heat, cool down, and then get back to the fun outside, and it wouldn’t be possible without Fraser Way RV,” Kish says.
4. For Babies & Toddlers: Need a break with little ones? Visit the Family Relief Room, stocked with baby-change supplies. Those unused at fair’s end go to a local transition house, thanks to Save on Foods.
5. Fab food: Sip fresh lemonade, snack on sweet mini-donuts … there’s nothing better than fair food. “Come hungry!” Kish says. With 17 food vendors, tuck into grilled goodies, but also treats like potato on a stick, corndogs, pizza, poutine and funnel cakes. And yes, healthier options ARE available – look for the B & B Concessions with six types of gourmet salads!
Later on, relax in one of two family-friendly beer gardens, complete with entertainment.
6. Animal friends: From 4H displays and pig racing to video sensations Dolly and Spanky – a Shetland Pony and her Jack Russell bestie – animals are everywhere. New for 2018 is the Dock Dog show – you can even register your own pooch!
7. Logger competitions … and laughs: Back for the first time in more than 30 years, don’t miss these thrilling competitors Saturday only. For a funnier take on tradition, the Laughing Loggers have three shows daily Friday and Sunday.
8. Rev your engines: The demolition derby is back, plus Canada’s longest running and premier freestyle motocross show!
9. Be entertained: Expect a full slate of premier entertainment, including strolling performers, multicultural festivities Friday, Jo Jo Mason Saturday and the community’s largest Christian concert Sunday from 4 to 11 p.m., presented by Columbia Cabinets.
10. Salute to First Responders: A highlight for many will be the RCMP Musical Ride, one part of the fair’s recognition of Abbotsford’s emergency personnel – be sure to also check out the Lego build, an ambulance! “We really do want to recognize our local first responders who do such amazing work,” Kish says.
Plan your visit today! Visit at agrifair.ca and follow them on Facebook.
