Peachland Fall Fair: A Century of Community Spirit
Welcome to the Peachland Fall Fair, a time-honoured tradition celebrating 105 years of community spirit, creativity, and agricultural excellence. This beloved event, set for September 7-8, 2024, promises a weekend filled with fun, competition, and delicious treats. Let’s explore what makes this fair a standout event.
Event Details and Admission
Location & Admission
Head over to the Peachland Community Centre at 4450 – 6th Street. The Peachland Fall Fair is accessible and affordable for everyone, with adult admission priced at $3.00 and just $0.50 for children under 12. The community centre buzzes with excitement from the moment the doors open.
Schedule Highlights
On Friday, September 6, exhibitors and volunteers kick things off with entry submissions between 5:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. Saturday starts early with fresh flower submissions from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. The official opening is at 1:30 p.m., followed by the much-anticipated tea and pie session at 2:00 p.m., courtesy of the 50+ Activity Centre. Doors close at 5 p.m. Sunday continues the fun with doors opening at 10:00 a.m., more tea and pie at 2:00 p.m., and the awards ceremony wrapping things up at 4:00 p.m.
Competing for Awards and Trophies
One of the most exciting aspects of the Peachland Fall Fair is the competition for awards and trophies in every category. Participants pour their hearts and souls into their entries, hoping to earn recognition for their hard work and creativity. The anticipation builds as the awards ceremony approaches, where winners are celebrated and receive their coveted trophies. These accolades symbolize community pride and the timeless tradition of excellence that the Peachland Fall Fair has upheld for over a century.
Some of the Exhibits
Baking & Preserves
Get ready to see and taste some amazing homemade goods. The baking and preserves section is always a crowd-pleaser. From pies to jams, you'll find everything that showcases the community’s culinary talents. Special entries often include unique recipes that have been passed down through generations, reflecting Peachland’s rich culinary heritage.
Flowers and Vegetables
The flower and vegetable displays are stunning and showcase the best of local gardening skills. Whether it's a prize-winning pumpkin or a bouquet of roses, the dedication of the gardeners is evident in every exhibit. The “Roots & Shoots” theme this year highlights sustainable gardening practices, so expect to see creative displays that focus on eco-friendly techniques.
Handicrafts and Needlework
If you’re into crafts, the handicrafts and needlework categories will impress you. From intricate quilts to beautifully carved wood pieces, the talent on display is incredible. This section showcases the community's creativity and skill. You might even get inspired to start a new hobby!
The Community and Its Volunteers
Volunteer Spirit
The fair wouldn’t be possible without the hard work and dedication of its volunteers. Every year, a team of committed individuals ensures that the event runs smoothly. Volunteering at the fair is a fantastic way to get involved in the community, meet new people, and contribute to a longstanding tradition.
Special Thanks
A huge thank you goes out to the judges and all the volunteers who make the fair happen. Their expertise and generosity ensure that the event is fair, fun, and a true reflection of Peachland’s community spirit. The fair is a community effort, and it’s this collective dedication that has kept it going strong for over a century.
A Glimpse into the Past
History of the Fair
Since its inception in 1919, the Peachland Fall Fair has been a highlight of the community calendar. Initially held at the ‘Orange Hall’ on Second Street, it was organized by the Peachland Women’s Institute and the Farmer’s Institute. The fair has evolved over the years, with different groups taking on the organizing this beloved event.
Notable Milestones
In the 1920s, packed fruit competitions became a popular feature. Post-WWII, the fair saw even greater community involvement, with local organizations playing key roles. The formation of the Fall Fair Committee in the 1970s marked a new era of growth and professional organization, ensuring the fair’s continued success.
Conclusion
The Peachland Fall Fair is a celebration of community, tradition, and creativity. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, so mark your calendars for September 7-8, 2024, and be part of this historic and delightful community event. See you at the fair!