The Saanich Fair is back for Labour Day weekend, bringing three days of food, rides, and entertainment to the Saanich Fairground, from Aug. 30 to Sept. 1.
Now in its 157th year, the fair is the oldest agricultural fair in Western Canada and the largest on Vancouver Island.
This year’s theme, Focus on Farming, puts the spotlight on the region’s agricultural roots.
For first-year general manager Bryan Burns, who took the helm in February, balancing tradition with fresh experiences is key.
“Fairs are all about tradition and community,” Burns said. “They bring people together to experience agriculture, arts, and photography in a way most of us don’t see in our day-to-day urban lives.”
While agriculture remains central, Burns said this year’s fair is packed with new attractions.
Tiny Town, an expansion of the Kids' Zone, will feature free games, balloon animals, face painting, bouncy castles, the West Coast Lumberjack Show, and even the chance to “lead a donkey.”
“What I love is the smiles on kids’ faces when they experience something new, whether it’s seeing an animal up close or learning where food comes from,” he said.
The main midway has also been expanded, with additional rides to reduce wait times, while three smaller rides in Tiny Town will cater specifically to younger children and families.
West Coast Amusements will run rides all three days, plus an extra rides-only night on Friday, Aug. 29.
Music continues to be a draw.
Local performers will play throughout the day, with headliners in the evening. JUMP, a Van Halen tribute band, takes the stage Aug. 30 at 8 p.m., followed by Canadian rockers The Trews on Aug. 31 at 8 p.m. Opening ceremonies are set for Saturday at noon.
Burns said the fair’s mix of entertainment, animals, and community connection is what keeps people coming back year after year.
“It’s a juggling act sometimes,” he said. “You have traditionalists who want to keep things exactly the way they were, but we also have to find ways to blend it together and make it all work. I think we do a really good job spreading things out and giving people a chance to check out animals, see the displays, and be entertained.”
Food is another major draw, with nearly 40 vendors offering everything from classic fair treats to global flavours. Admission covers most attractions, with rides available for an additional fee. Free parking is also offered.
The Saanich Fair runs Aug. 30 to Sept. 1 at the Saanich Fairgrounds, 1528 Stellys Cross Rd.
