Bedford Fair
A celebration of tradition and community
The Bedford Fair, an annual event eagerly awaited by the local community and visitors alike, is set to take place from Aug. 7 to 11 this year. With a rich history dating back nearly 200 years, the fair promises a blend of traditional activities and modern attractions that cater to all age groups. Organized by the Missisquoi Agricultural Society, the fair is a staple of the Eastern Townships’ summer events, attracting thousands of attendees.
Jessica Pelletier, a representative from the Missisquoi Agricultural Society, provided insights into this year’s fair during an Aug. 5 interview. “The Bedford Fair has always been a significant event for our community,” said Pelletier. “We expect around 20,000 attendees over the weekend, similar to previous years, with visitors coming from all over Quebec and even Ontario.”
A week of excitement
The fair kicks off on Wednesday, Aug. 7, with the much-anticipated annual parade down Bedford Road at 6:30 p.m. This colorful procession marks the official start of the festivities, setting the stage for the days to come. Each day is packed with a variety of activities that highlight the region’s agricultural heritage and provide entertainment for all ages.
Thursday, Aug. 8, features equestrian competitions starting at 9 a.m., followed by rural youth judging at 9:30 a.m. The day continues with dairy cattle judgements at 4 p.m. and a thrilling Rally Derby at 7 p.m. The evening concludes with a musical performance by Les Bons Jack at 9 p.m., ensuring a lively atmosphere.
Friday, Aug. 9, sees the continuation of equestrian events at 9 a.m., with more competitions at 9:30 a.m. The highlight of the day is the Demolition Derby at 7:30 p.m., a crowd favorite that promises excitement and spectacle. The night wraps up with a musical show by Touch of Gray at 10:30 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 10, starts with more equestrian competitions and dairy cattle judgements. At 3 p.m., there are races featuring tractors and lawnmowers, a unique and entertaining event. The day ends with a country dance featuring Winslow Dance at 8 p.m., providing a perfect conclusion to a day full of activities.
Sunday, Aug. 11, the final day of the fair, includes equestrian competitions at 9 a.m., followed by the alwayspopular tractor pulls at 11 a.m. This last event draws significant attention, showcasing the strength and power of these impressive machines.
Admission and attractions
The fair offers various admission options to ensure accessibility for everyone. Single-day tickets are priced at $25 for adults and $15 for children aged 5-12, while children 4 and under can enter for free. For those planning to enjoy the fair over multiple days, a 4-day pass is available at $75. Additionally, a family pass for $60 admits two adults and two children for a day, making it an affordable option for families.
Pelletier emphasized that the entry fee includes access to all rides and shows on site, although food and drinks are sold separately. “We want to make sure that everyone can enjoy the fair without worrying about extra costs for rides or shows,” she said.
One of the new additions this year is a petting zoo, which had been absent since the COVID-19 pandemic. “The petting zoo is a great way for children to interact with animals and learn more about them,” said Pelletier. “It’s been missed in the past years, and we’re excited to have it back.” The rides, provided by the Beauce Carnaval, are always a major attraction. Attendees can enjoy classic Ferris wheels and merry-go-rounds to more thrilling rides for the adventurous.
Community and participation
The fair not only attracts locals but also participants from further afield. “We have competitors coming from Ontario and all over Quebec,” noted Pelletier. “The equestrian events, in particular, draw a wide range of participants, though the dairy cattle judging is mostly limited to Quebec due to strict rules.”
The fair’s inclusive nature is one of its strengths. “It’s a community event that brings everyone together,” said Pelletier. “From families enjoying the rides and games to serious competitors in the agricultural contests, there’s something for everyone.”
In addition to the scheduled events, the fairgrounds will feature various food vendors offering a range of culinary delights, from traditional fair snacks like cotton candy and popcorn to heartier fare such as burgers, poutine, and local specialties. “The food and drinks are not included in the ticket price, but there will be plenty of options for everyone to enjoy,” Pelletier reiterated.
For those interested in shopping, the fair will host numerous stalls and booths where local artisans and vendors will showcase their products. From handmade crafts and jewelry to farm-fresh produce and specialty foods, visitors can take home a piece of the fair’s vibrant atmosphere.
A tradition of excellence
The Bedford Fair is not just about fun and games; it also serves as an important venue for agricultural education and competition. The dairy cattle judging, a highlight for many, provides a platform for local farmers to showcase their best livestock. While Pelletier admitted she wasn’t an expert on the judging criteria, she emphasized its importance in the fair’s schedule. “The dairy cattle judging is a long-standing tradition, and it’s really impressive to see the quality of livestock presented,” she said.
The equestrian competitions, another cornerstone of the fair, draw participants from across the region. While there are no longer horse races due to the track’s condition, the equestrian events still feature a variety of competitions that test the skills of both horse and rider. “We don’t have horse racing anymore, but the equestrian competitions remain a major attraction,” Pelletier explained.
One unique aspect of the Bedford Fair is its ability to evolve while staying true to its roots. Over the years, the fair has incorporated more motorized activities, such as the demolition derby and tractor pulls, to cater to changing interests. “[There] used to be less motorized activities, but that’s what people want now,” Pelletier explained. “We’re always looking for ways to improve and keep the fair relevant for today’s audience.”
Accessibility and convenience
In terms of logistics, the fair is designed to be as accessible and convenient as possible. Parking is free, and there are multiple locations around the fairgrounds where visitors can park their vehicles. “We have parking at the arena, at the pool, so you park wherever you want,” said Pelletier. This ease of access ensures that visitors can focus on enjoying the fair without worrying about additional costs or complications.
For those traveling from outside the immediate area, the fairgrounds are equipped to accommodate a range of visitors. The presence of nearby campgrounds makes it possible for visitors to stay overnight and fully immerse themselves in the fair experience. “Because of the camping in Frelighsberg, some people come on vacation… they [come] here for the trip,” Pelletier explained.
The history of the Bedford Fair
The Bedford Fair has a storied history that reflects the agricultural heritage of the region. The fair’s website states it all began in 1824 when a group of local farmers decided to band together to address common concerns. By 1828, the Bedford County Agricultural Society was officially recognized, marking the beginning of an annual event that would travel between various villages.
Initially, the fair was held in different locations, including Philipsburg, East
St-armand, Dunham, Stanbridge-east, and Frelighsburg. In 1873, the Society purchased a permanent site for the fairgrounds in Bedford, which has been the event’s home ever since.
Over the years, the fairgrounds have seen numerous improvements. In 1950, a new wooden arena was built, which became a popular venue for horse shows and other sports-related activities. The arena’s official opening in 1951 featured an exhibition game between the Montreal Canadiens and a local team, the Bedford Bruins.
The fair was upgraded to a category “B” Canadian fair in 1951, recognizing the efforts made to ensure its continued success. Despite a fire that destroyed the wooden arena in 1972, the fair continued to thrive, with new facilities and attractions being added over the years. In 2007, the SAM Equestrian Center was opened, offering a range of equestrian services and activities.
Today, the Bedford Fair is classified as an “A” fair, attracting visitors from all over to enjoy its diverse offerings. From traditional agricultural competitions to modern attractions like the demolition derby and country dances, the fair continues to be a highlight of the summer season in the Eastern Townships.
The Bedford Fair remains a cherished tradition, reflecting the agricultural roots and community spirit of the region. With a wide array of activities, competitions, and attractions, this year’s fair promises to be a memorable event for all who attend. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor from afar, the Bedford Fair offers a unique opportunity to experience the best of rural life and celebrate the vibrant community of the Eastern Townships.