Big Sights, Big Sounds!

Big Sights, Big Sounds!

Rosanne Fortier - News Correspondent

The timeless summer tradition of fun for all ages and taste was offered at the Vegreville Deerland Annual Country Fair at Vegreville Agricultural Grounds on August 3rd to 7th.

The theme for this year’s fair was ‘Country Town, Big Sounds’ with approximate attendance estimated at just over 18,000 people.

This fair rained in with the annual Parade on August 3 where over 50 entries of floats passed by the road near Vegreville Composite High School and ended near the road by Vegreville Agricultural Grounds.

After the parade, there was the Parade Awards Presentation and Luncheon where the parade winners were announced which were for the Antique Cars: First Place: Terry Warawa, Second Place: Darcy Lencewich, Third Place: George Sample. The winning floats for Non- Commercial were First Place: Vegreville Corn Maze, Second Place: Hairy Hill Rodeo, Third Place: Shriners. Horse Drawn Cart: First Place: Karina and Anna Trudel, Second Place: MP Shannon Stubbs. Horse Riders: First Place: Coldwell Banking. Clowns/Mascots: First Place: Vegreville Vipers. Commercial:

First Place: Vegreville Plumbing, Second Place: AFCS, Third Place: Young Farts RV Parts.

After this, the fairgrounds opened on August 3 at noon where sounds of laughter circulated when people rode the mid-way rides. While others participated in the games of chance where they were seen carrying the stuff toys they won for their significant other in one hand while they held the fair food they bought with their other hand.

Antique Tractor Pulls were presented at the Grandstand on August 3 which took people back to yesteryear’s memories. Kris Klammer who is a Director for Vegreville Agricultural Society and Organizer of event said there were six people who participated at the event with nine tractors. “The event went quite well overall. There is a new track which works really well.” Klammer said.

The floats from the parade.

(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

There was plenty of horsepower during the Vanouck Hotrod Pulling Team demonstration Aug. 6 and five straight days of Chariot and Chuckwagon races for folks to enjoy.

A showcase of creativity was presented at the Bench Show at the Exhibit Hall where there were approximately 1000 entries and 97 exhibitors which featured horticulture, quilting, sewing projects, handicrafts, cooking, writing, photography, and more items which were created by local people.

At the Kids Fun Zone. There were inflatables to climb, jump in, and play on, obstacle course, fishing game and other activities.

Steve Harmer was the Magician who was spotted doing his magically acts, props and fun juggling at Kids Fun Zone on August 3 and 4. He was accompanied with the tricks he performed by a live rabbit named Stew and a live dove named Charlie. Steve is a former principal, counselor and teacher. He has been a professional magician for 44 years. Steve delivered some positive life patterns and lessons to the children’s minds through magic, music, comedy, audience participation and storytelling.

Children participate in the Kids Mini Tractor Pull.

(Rosanne Fortier/ Photo)

The Petting Zoo gave kids and others a chance to interact with animals that included sheep, goats, rabbits, ponies and more.

The Market Place featured 57 vendors who were selling goods and services that included unique treasures for all ages. The Farmer’s Market had vendors selling their produce on the grounds.

There was also a chance for people to have fun, win prizes, all while testing their physical endurance and skills at the Minute to Win It, Kids Mini Tractor Pull, and Strong Person Competition.

And to add some amusement to the mix, Joey Vedres and Noah Weigel from Three Hat Circus were performing tricks and socializing with people who attended the fair.

The Open Horse Show rode in on August 4, 5 and 6 and featured participants of all ages trying out old and new skills while riding on their horses.

Antique tractor pulls.

(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)