Tillsonburg fair receives grant from town

Jeff Helsdon, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Last year was a tough one for the Tillsonburg Tri-County Agricultural Society with weather impacting its premier event, the Tillsonburg Fair.

To say Mother Nature put the damper on the fair is an understatement. Rain on all three days of the fair, and the threat of a tornado on the Sunday, set back attendance. Rosemary Dean, speaking on behalf of the Tillsonburg Tri-County Agricultural Society, told council the fair’s gate revenue was down $19,000 in 2024.

The Tillsonburg fair is going into its 171st year, first established in 1854. The volunteer-run event relies on grants from the community. Besides the rides and games on the midway, the fair still stresses its agricultural roots.

“We aim to make awareness of agriculture in our community through education, communication and entertainment,” Dean said.

Family ties to the fair start a young age with the baby contest, and continue with contests with connections to agriculture, such as largest vegetables and animals, and other fun activities.

“Our fair is a place where generations have come together to make memories,” Dean said.

“Unfortunately, our struggle is not a rare one. Fairs and festivals have become unsustainable for many community groups to continue to operate. Many other fairs have had to cut back on entertainment at their events, and some have had to close their doors permanently. We refuse to see this happen in our community.”

Dean asked council for a $5,000 grant to assist with bridging the financial gap from last year.

Coun. Kelly Spencer asked Dean how many community sponsorships they receive.

Saying they send out about 100 requests, Dean answered, “We’re lucky if we get 10 back, and they’re usually from outside our community, which is the sad part.”

Spencer asked for a friendly amendment to the motion to fund the Tillsonburg Tri-County Agricultural Society for $5,000, suggesting the addition of advertising the fair on the town’s social media.

Coun. Chris Parker, who made the motion, asked treasurer Renato Pullia the balance in the Tax Rate Stabilization Reserve. He was told it was $271,000.

“With the other people we have turned down in the past, do we have enough to cover their requests when they start asking,” remarked Coun. Chris Rosehart.

Council approved the request and agreed to promote the fair on social media.