The Sutton Fair & Horse Show returns for the 166th year

By: Michelle Poirier

The 166th Sutton Fair & Horse Show returns from August 10 to 13. This year’s theme is “From Pioneer Days to Modern Ways.”

“The first Sutton Fair & Horse Show took place in 1855. This theme reflects on the changes in agriculture over time,” said Victoria Pike, one of the fair’s directors.

“The theme will be represented in many Homecraft exhibit entries on display in both the Sutton Arena and Kin Building throughout the fair.”

But despite the historical focus, many modern summer favourites will return this year, including the demolition derby, tractor pull and, of course, the midway.

There’s also no shortage of children’s activities, like Zoo to You, a frog jumping competition, children’s pedal pull, pet show, baby show, and kid’s fun tent.

“We’ve come a long way from the 1800s when the fair began,” added Jason Kay, the fair’s president.

“New additions to the fair this year include the Global Pet Foods Superdogs, Grass Roots Extreme Cowboy races, kid’s foam parties, magic shows, and several musical acts,” Pike added.

Visitors will also see a wide variety of agricultural displays and demonstrations, including 4H dairy, beef, cattle and sheep shows. And let’s not forget the wonderful horse shows, including Morgan, Welsh and Sport’s ponies, and horse pulls.

The Sutton Agricultural Society plans for the fair all year, and both Kay and Pike are excited for it to begin. They especially want to thank all the volunteers who donated countless hours to make it happen.

“Volunteers make this fair happen; without them, the fair would not go on,” Kay said.

“See you at the fair,” Pike said.

Adult/Student admission is $15; Children $8 (6-12 yrs); Seniors $8 (65+ yrs); Family Pass (2 adults + 3 children).

Discounted general adult fair admission tickets and World’s Finest Shows Ride-All-Day Midway Passes, which are not for sale during the fair, can be purchased at Sutton and Keswick Home Hardware by closing on August 9.

For more information, visit www.suttonfair.com.