Some traditions just never get old, even if they were initiated in the 19th century.
We’re talking, of course, about the Salt Spring Island Fall Fair, which was for many years (or possibly decades) held on the third weekend of September, until its switch to the second weekend in 2022. And with this year’s fair coming as early as possible in September and in blistering heat on Saturday, Sept. 7, there wasn’t a strong sense of autumn in the air.
However, what was the same as ever was the feeling that residents had emerged from a summer of semi-isolation and letting visitors dominate the island, coming from all corners to share their exhibits or take in their favourite events — from the zany zucchini races to the sheepdog demonstrations, from the pet parade to the tractor pull — to listening to fabulous local musicians, socializing in the beer garden or at the various non-profit and business booths. The number of food vendors was back to pre-Covid levels, with something for everyone’s tastes and desires, including the wildly popular offerings of the Pie Ladies’ of the Salt Spring Island Women’s Institute.
If one ever fears that we are becoming a community of retirees, the fair reminds us that young ones and families form a huge part of our spirit and energy.
Somehow, the same old thing always manages to be the best darn thing ever; but even then the fall fair committee of the Salt Spring Island Farmers’ Institute is always trying to find ways to improve the fair. Making it possible to register and pay for entries online is one positive change brought in this year; as was a project to ensure compostable materials were kept out of the waste stream, for example.
Congratulations must go as well to the Gulf Islands Horse Association for a fully revived two-day horse show in the ring they worked hard to rehabilitate, with support from the Farmers’ Institute and other partners.
Speaking of support, if you enjoyed the fair and want to ensure it can keep getting better, consider volunteering with the Farmers’ Institute in some capacity throughout the year, or for the fair itself next year.
It takes hundreds of volunteers to make the Salt Spring Fall Fair happen. With enough hearts and hands on deck, it really can keep getting better, while reminding us that we are still a strong and resilient, close and quirky rural community.