It looks like clear skies ahead for Agrifair.
Months of planning and preparation has been done, and the only major obstacle to a successful fair would be another unseasonable downpour.
Fortunately for organizers, a big ray of sunshine is forecast to arrive at almost the same time as Abbotsford’s annual summer fair.
According to the Environment Canada forecast, the city should see clouds and a 30 per cent chance of rain today, then clear up and hit temperatures close to 30 C Friday through Monday.
Agrifair general manager Pam Brenner noted there are some deals designed to make the fair affordable for families. Tonight, the first night of the fair, the gate is half price at $5, and midway rides are just a toonie each. Monday is combo day, where a $24 fee buys both admission to the fair and midway rides all day.
On the fair’s website, at www.agrifair.ca, there is a free kids’ ticket coupon that can be downloaded.
Among Agrifair’s entertainment highlights are:
- The Mighty Fraser Pro Rodeo goes Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 6 p.m.
- The Valley Voices Showcase competition will begin on Thursday at 6 p.m. on the main stage, continuing Friday, Sunday and Monday at noon, with the finals at 2 p.m. on Monday.
- The Que Bola Magic and Comedy show will be offered on Friday at 3 p.m. and throughout the weekend.
- Friday night features Live Rust at 7:30 p.m. and Stonebolt at 9 p.m. on the main stage.
- Emily Taylor Adams and A.J. Woodworth are the main attractions on stage on Saturday, playing at 7:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. respectively, and Sunday night at 9 p.m. Christian rock band Starfield will light up the night.
- AbbyFest Day will be a celebration of multiculturalism, for the first time at Agrifair, beginning Saturday at 10 p.m.
There are other performers too numerous to mention. The agricultural roots of the fair remain strong, with 4-H shows, beekeeping demonstrations, donkey driving classes, kids blueberry eating contests and much more.
And rodeo isn’t the only show in the Thunderbowl, as Lord Strathcona’s Mounted Troop and tug-o-wars will also be there.
“I’m really looking forward to it,” said Brenner. “It’s going to be a great show.”