Celebrating Tradition and Community at the Charlotte County Fall Fair

The Charlotte County Fall Fair, a cherished tradition that brings together local culture and community spirit, returns to Ganong Nature Park on September 21st and 22nd of 2024. Now in its 13th year, this beloved annual event offers a wide range of attractions that celebrate rural life in Southwest New Brunswick while fostering community connections.

Vicki Hogarth – Local Journalism Initiative

In a recent interview on Southwest Magazine on CHCO-TV, key members of the Fall Fair Committee—Sheryl Hewitt, Colleen Winchester, and Peter Heelis— provided a glimpse of what attendees can look forward to this year.

A Culinary and Artisan Showcase

Food lovers and artisan enthusiasts are in for a treat. Sheryl Hewitt, Artisan and Food Vendor Coordinator, highlighted the fair’s diverse culinary offerings. “We have a large number of vendors attending this year. So, if you come hungry, we've got 10 food vendors with unique menus, and plenty of artisans showcasing their crafts,” Hewitt explained. From authentic Mexican to Indian cuisine, the fair promises a rich variety of flavours, making it a must-visit for food aficionados and anyone looking to support local artisans.

Exciting New Attractions

A standout new feature this year is a live sheep herding demonstration, a first for the fair. Peter Heelis, who serves on both the Fall Fair Committee and the Ganong Nature Park Board, shared his enthusiasm: “We’ve been searching all over Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, and this year we finally secured someone to bring their dogs for a sheep herding demonstration.” The event will take place twice daily, offering an authentic glimpse into rural traditions as skilled sheepdogs herd livestock with precision.

Music and Entertainment

The fair’s entertainment lineup is packed with performances from nine musical acts throughout the weekend. “We have musicians performing all day on both Saturday and Sunday,” said Colleen Winchester, the Chairperson of the Fall Fair Committee. In addition to music, the event will feature activities for both children and adults, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

A Tribute to Local History

The roots of the Charlotte County Fall Fair run deep in local history. Heelis recalled the fair’s beginnings as part of the town’s 150th anniversary celebration. “The town wanted to recreate the Charlotte County Fall Fair, which historically took place in St. Stephen. We started it 13 years ago, and it’s grown ever since,” Heelis explained. The fair’s location at Ganong Nature Park offers ample space for the wide array of activities planned.

Powered by Volunteers

The success of the fair hinges on the dedication of its volunteers. Winchester acknowledged the critical role they play: “Volunteers are very important because, without them, we couldn’t have the Charlotte County Fall Fair.” From managing parking to assisting with children’s activities, volunteers ensure the event runs smoothly. The committee encourages anyone interested to get involved.

Interactive Family Fun

The fair offers interactive experiences that engage and delight attendees of all ages. Heelis noted that the farm games and obstacle courses are perennial favourites among children. “Every year, it’s different, and the kids always have a wonderful time,” he said. Additionally, the Men's Club will be constructing a timber frame barn on-site, offering a hands-on look at traditional building techniques and rural craftsmanship.

Preserving and Growing Tradition

The Fall Fair is not just about entertainment—it’s about preserving local heritage and fostering community pride. “It's a celebration of what's happening in our county,” Winchester said. The committee is committed to ensuring that the fair continues to grow and remains a cherished event for future generations.

Community Support and Sponsorship

The ongoing success of the Charlotte County Fall Fair is made possible by the generous support of local businesses and sponsors. “It’s really important to acknowledge the many sponsors because the fair couldn’t happen without them,” Winchester added.

Join the Celebration

The Charlotte County Fall Fair is more than an event; it’s a vibrant celebration of community, tradition, and rural life. With diverse attractions, local history, and activities for all ages, it promises to be an enriching experience for everyone.