Get ready to “dig the diversity” as the Salmon Arm Fair opens Friday.
Wander through the indoor arena to take in the displays of food, drink and handcrafted items. See what businesses are offering the latest in their field. Head outside and have a bite to eat, choosing from a large variety of delicious treats.
Shooting Star Midway opens at 3 p.m., with rides suitable for the little members of the family as well as those seeking a bigger thrill – or fright. New this year is the West Coast Lumberjack Show, blending skills, history and humour.
Last year, Elvis tribute artist Adam Fitzpatrick attracted enthusiastic crowds. Now ranked number two in the world of Elvis tribute artists, Fitzpatrick will be back on the main stage near the food court.
Produced by Lori and Gil Risling, the always-popular Shuswap Idol program highlighting local talent, will take place over the course of the fair, along with other music and dance entertainment.
Lawn tractor racing will stir up the dust in front of the grandstand, and Saturday morning’s parade rolls out at 10:45 a.m.
The Girl Guides will be collecting non-perishable food items for the Salvation Army Food Bank so take food or a donation to the parade.
History buffs will enjoy poking around Memory Lane and the working displays by the Shuswap Pioneer Collectors Club.
Back again at 12:30 p.m. Sunday, is 4-H with their obstacle course and a costume class for goats.
And, of course, it wouldn’t be a fair without the judges selecting ribbon winners to showcase the “best of the best” in agricultural animals, foods, and crafts. Look for the ‘Poultry in Motion’ mobile mini-barn this year.
In honour of the of the Salmon Arm Fire Department’s 100th anniversary, a birthday cake will be shared at the official fair opening at 6 p.m. Friday. The stage will open after the welcoming ceremony with dancers and the Shuswap Idol competition.
Kids ages nine and under can pick up entries for the scavenger hunt from gate attendants or the information booth on Fifth Avenue. Kids then find the stickers to fill their books throughout the grounds and return them to the information booth for a gift.
For more information, go to www.salmonarmfair.com.
