This Thursday marks the start of the 170th Listowel Agricultural Fair.
The Listowel Ag Society will be welcoming people from near and far for the beloved event, and Ag Society and Fair President Carolyn Van Der Heiden says the fair offers something for everyone.
"Going from Senior's Day to Kid's Day, we have livestock shows, tractor and truck pulls, the Midway, which everybody loves, a demolition derby, there's food, hall exhibits, you name it, it's there," Van Der Heiden shared excitedly. "When people enter the fairgrounds, you'll see the Midway, you'll see some of the shows that are happening. At the entrances, there will be posters sharing what activities are happening when and where. So just keep your eyes open, follow the crowds, and you'll find something to enjoy."
Van Der Heiden adds that the fair is not only a great way to educate people about the agricultural sector, but it is also an opportunity to encourage young people to get involved in the sector as a career.
"It is extremely important. Agriculture touches just about every job out there, and I think people don't understand that. So it's not just to do with our food, but it's also technology, and really at some point, agriculture is touching just about everything," Van Der Heiden said.
There will be plenty of educational displays that will be set up in the Ag Hall, where people can learn more about the importance of the agricultural sector.
"Maybe there's something they want to learn, and they can find out how. I think seeing agriculture and how much we cherish it and how it's a part of our community, people may want to learn more about it and where their food comes from," added Van Der Heiden.
Of course, with any event of this scale, there has been plenty of hard work and help from many people, as Van Der Heiden points out.
"We have so many volunteers in our community and without them, this wouldn't be possible. We also have our corporate sponsors and other individuals and businesses who donate for the fair and again, without them, this just wouldn't be possible," she concluded.
The fair will run from this Thursday, July 16 through Sunday, July 19. More information can be seen on our website or ListowelFair.com.
