Enzo Graziano crowned Grand Champion at Paris Fair Baby Show

Grand Champion Enzo Graziano is joined on stage by his mom, Margarida Gamo, Paris Agricultural Society president John Stewart, the Paris Fair Ambassador Grace Aulsebrook-Smith, and Baby Show judges Molly Luke, Jennifer Platz and Chris Whelan following Monday’s competition at the J.H. Buck Exhibition Centre.

Casandra Turnbull

Managing Editor

The Paris Fair’s annual Baby Show drew about 65 youngsters to the J.H. Buck Exhibition Centre on Labour Day, bringing families and friends together for one of the fair’s most endearing traditions.

The line to register began before 9 a.m. as parents, grandparents and siblings arrived to cheer on the babies competing in 10 age classes, along with special themed categories such as Midway Clown and Beach Baby.

Organizers Kathryn Wight and Ashley Cloverdale kept the show running smoothly, grouping contestants in lots of 10 for judging by Molly Luke, Jennifer Platz and Chris Whelan.

The crowd’s attention peaked when all class winners returned to the stage for the final round, where 17-month-old Enzo Graziano was crowned Grand Champion.

Enzo, the son of Margarida Gamo and Matteo Graziano, charmed the judges with his bright smile and boundless energy. His father, currently deployed with the Canadian Armed Forces in Latvia, was unable to attend, but Gamo was surrounded by friends who offered their support as she dashed after her son to keep him from running off the stage.

“He smiled readily and seemed to enjoy the whole event,” said Margaret Collins, who photographed the event.

Each winner received a gift bag filled with items donated by the Homecraft Division and local sponsors. Enzo also received a cash prize and a deluxe gift box.

The Baby Show has long been a staple of the Paris Fair, which dates back to 1858. While midway rides and concerts may draw big crowds, the Baby Show remains one of the fair’s most cherished contests, celebrating family, community and the next generation of fairgoers.