The Ponoka agricultural fair may have a new name this year, and lots of other changes, but it hasn’t forgot its history.
“One hundred years ago they were the fair in town,” said Ponoka Ag Society President Sherry Gummow. “But you have to change things up.”
The rebranded Ponoka Community Fair will be held indoors at the Ponoka Ag Event Centre.
It will also be held over just one day, Aug. 11, instead of two.
“We’re trying to focus it all in one day,” said Gummow. “It’s going to be a tight schedule, but if it doesn’t work we’ll just change it back.”
This changes the dynamics of the fair, says Gummow. Plus the weather and mud won’t be a concern this year.
One of the fair’s newest attractions is the greased pig races. “It’s something for the kids to due,” said Gummow.
The mutton busting will be held for the second year, with only the first 12 competitors accepted.
While they aren’t new, Gummow is glad the agility dogs are back to entertain the crowds. “People really like them.”
One of the biggest changes to the fair is its name, which was changed when the fair got rebranded.
Gummow says the term county wasn’t inclusive enough since the fair attracted people from town too.
Along with the name being changed from county to community, divisions within the fair broadened to appear more welcoming to both county and town residents.
A senior’s tea will take place for the horticulture and hobby show Friday, Aug. 10 at the Ag Event Centre from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
A community supper will also be held. Tickets are available at VJV and Busted Ladies Lingerie for $20.
Community church will be held at the curling rink Aug. 12 at 10 a.m.