Fair board seeks volunteers to keep a time-honoured tradition alive

The Tillsonburg Fairgrounds, circa 1915. A tradition that has been enjoyed for generations relies on a team of dedicated volunteers. (Annandale House NHS Photo)

Robin Krafft, Post Contributor

The Tillsonburg Tri-County Agricultural Society (fair board) is seeking new members to bring fresh ideas and a different vision to the table.

The dedicated group of volunteers is responsible for planning and organizing various events, including parades. There are currently 50 members, but only 12 are actively involved in the fair.

Third vice-president Rosemary Dean has been a member for over 20 years, serving in a variety of roles over the years, including president.

"People are welcome to reach out to us if they’re interested in volunteering," Dean said. "There's a lot of pressure on all the people that do it. Setting up is a big job and then there's the takedown and clean up."

Yearly membership is only $5, and meetings are held monthly. The fair board needs people who can commit to helping with fundraising and organization, and being there for the week before the fair, for the event itself, and the work that is involved afterwards.

"Some people take on a specific piece of it, they have a passion for something, but you need to be a team player," Dean said. "We do whatever we can for the community within our means, within the budget, and everything goes back into the fair."

Dean also noted that they try to highlight personal achievements and businesses throughout the Tri-County area, representing Oxford, Elgin and Norfolk.

Established in 1854, the Tillsonburg Fair draws crowds every summer. Attendance varies from year to year, from 4,000 to 8,000 people, depending on the weather, and offers attractions and displays to interest and entertain all ages.

"Each of us is so dedicated," Dean said. "The passion we have for the fair - we don't want it to go by the wayside."

Joan Weston, long-time member of the Tillsonburg Tri-County Agricultural Society, recalled the significant number of people who flocked to the fair after pandemic lockdowns had prevented it. It was easy to see how valuable the event was and how much people loved it. She reflected on why the fair is so important.

"The fair represents an unbroken tradition for nearly 170 years of the community having the opportunity to enjoy events and entertainment and keep in touch with our agricultural roots right here in town."

Those interested in joining the fair board as a volunteer can email tillsonburgfair@outlook.com using the subject line “volunteering”.