Local country fair celebrates 147th edition

The 147th edition of the Havelock Fair was a success, with all the rustic flair of everyone’s favourite country fair and a blazing sun that gave not a hint of the chilling evening temperatures to come. With horse and 4-H cattle shows, agricultural and artisanal exhibits, games, a petting zoo, live music and the first signs of a bountiful autumn harvest to come, the Havelock Fair was steeped in tradition. From the annual portraits taken by area families of young ones sitting on and around the giant pumpkin, to the children’s races, and the bunnies and ducklings to cuddle, the Fair has long centred around family fun. And after a disappointing year in 2017 following an early morning rain that kept some away, this year’s fair rebounded nicely. “It was a beautiful day and everyone enjoyed it,” says Sylvie Lussier, the President of the Fair Board. “It’s simply a day to meet friends and family and talk with people,” she notes, pointing out how so many people run into each other once a year at the Fair. As for that giant pumpkin, this year’s entry by Frank Barber weighed in just under 1,000 pounds, and was as impressive as always. “It took a lot of patience and a lot of watering this year to get them to grow that big,” remarked Lussier. Volunteers needed With the 150th edition of the Havelock Fair coming up in just three short years, the Fair Board is asking anyone with an interest in volunteering for the Fair to jump onboard. “It’s a lot of work for a one-day fair,” explains Lussier, who suggests that while the team of volunteers in place is exceptional, there could always be more.