For 163 years, the Beeton Fall Fair has kept rural traditions alive in a changing Ontario.
From 4-H Achievement Days for beef and dairy clubs, to the heavy horse shows and a magical midway, from live entertainment on the open-air stage to the traditional arts and crafts of the homecrafts exhibit, the fair has provided family entertainment while preserving and celebrating the community’s roots.
Crowds have always come out to enjoy the main street parade, the demolition derby and a classic car and truck show, and all the fun of a rural fair at the Beeton Fairgrounds and arena.
But not this year.
The Beeton Fall Fair is yet another victim of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Beeton & District Agricultural Society announced the cancellation of this year’s Fall Fair earlier this week, noting that “the Town of New Tecumseth has cancelled all events until September 7, 2020. Our event was scheduled for Sept. 18-20. The dates are too close and it is best to be safe given the uncertainty we face at this time.”
The society explained on its Facebook page that the decision was made “with heavy hearts,” being aware of the importance of the annual event to Beeton and area.
“For so many in our community, the fair is a time when some of our best memories are made and we cannot risk the health and safety of anyone during these unprecedented times,” it stated.
There are plans to bring back the Fair in 2021.
