The Western Fair kicks off on Friday with ten days of excitement, including the return of the demolition derby and live musical acts.
In preparation of the 142nd edition, over 50 rides have been set up and more than 800 farm animals brought to the east London facility, helping to transform 70 acres of pavement into the iconic fair.
"Something that we are really excited about this year is our e-sports tournament," said Skye Nicholson-Smith, Western Fair spokesperson. "It's going to take the fair by storm with our 5,000 sq ft space of free play sessions, mini tournaments all leading up to the two-day open qualification rocket league tournament. It's new to the fair and it's the first e-tournament in southwestern Ontario. Anyone, whether they are a beginner or expert video game player, they are all welcome to come and compete to win a $5,000 prize."
Halo 5 and Madden football will be among the video games being played at the tournament.
In honour of Canada 150, fair officials have brought back big ticket concerts. Opening night will see Canadian rockers 54-40, presented by Classic Rock Free 98.1, take the stage at the Metroland Media Agriplex. There will also be two nights of country shows; Eric Ethridge and the duo Locash play on September 12 while singer/songwriter Cam will play along with Madeline Merlo on September 13. The Sheepdogs headline the main stage on September 14.
Around 25 local performers will play free shows at the I Love Local tent throughout the fair's run. They include a wide variety of genres including rock, pop, blues, and country.
This year’s fair will also feature freestyle motorcross demonstrations on September 15 and 16, high diving performances by “the Flying Fools,” and the demolition derby, which will be held on the final Sunday.
For those who flock to the fair for its unique food, Nicholson-Smith said there are are a lot of new additions to gobble up.
"We have the traditional fair favourites from the corn dog to the cotton candy but we have some new, exciting items that will catch some people's eye," said Nicholson-Smith. "Among them is a poutine croquette which is kind of an ode to Canada. It has mashed potatoes filled with gravy and cheese curd, breaded, and of course deep fried. Then we have a donut battered Nanaimo bar, which is a new twist on a Canadian favourite. There is a great menu in our I Love Local tent, everything from local Ontario grass fed beef burgers to some Hayter’s Farms turkey wings."
Over the past five years, an average of 190,000 people have passed through the gates of the fair during its ten day run. What keeps Londoners coming year after year is a mix of tradition and new attractions, according to Nicholson-Smith.
"It is a great opportunity for the community to come together and experience traditions and make memories with family and friends. They can celebrate something new like e-sports coming onto the landscape but also revisit traditions. People come for the rides and to see the look of glee on their children's faces as they get on their first ride. The fair favourites, the tradition, and the opportunity to make memories generation after generation keep people coming to the fair," said Nicholson-Smith.
In an effort to make the fair more affordable for everyone, two-for-one admission days are being offered September 11 to 14. Bounce-back coupons, which shave $5 off a return visit, will be handed out at the gate. On the final Sunday, 50% off Ride-All-Day bracelets will be available on site.
Admission at the gate is $5 for kids, $15 for adults, and $10 for seniors. Ticket information can be found at www.westernfairdistrict.com.
The Western Fair runs until September 17.