The Grand Finale: Metcalfe Fair Celebrates 169 Years of Autumn Magic and Community Spirit

As the vibrant hues of autumn painted the Ottawa Valley, one cherished tradition stood ready to draw the curtain on the region's bustling fall fair season: the magnificent Metcalfe Fair. Celebrating an incredible 169th season from October 5th to 8th, this beloved event wasn't just a fair; it was a grand finale, a heartwarming reunion, and a living testament to enduring community spirit.

Stepping onto the Metcalfe Fairgrounds was like entering a kaleidoscope of sensory delights.

The air thrummed with the joyous screams from the towering Ferris wheel, the dizzying spins of the Gravitron, and the general cacophony of a bustling midway. Families laughed, friends reconnected, and children's eyes widened at every turn, eagerly anticipating their next adventure. It's this vibrant energy that fairgoers like Emily and Noah, making their annual pilgrimage, cherished most.

"It's a place to catch up, a place to see all your old friends," Emily shared, echoing the sentiments of many who view the fair as a cornerstone of their social calendar.

Beyond the thrilling rides, the heart of the Metcalfe Fair beat strongly with its deep agricultural roots. Generations of farming families proudly showcased their prized livestock, from majestic cattle and graceful horses to playful goats, fluffy alpacas, woolly sheep, and clucking chickens.

These exhibits offered a fascinating glimpse into the hard work and dedication that sustains our rural communities, fostering an appreciation for farming that is integral to the fair's identity. The air buzzed with excitement not only from the animals but also from the competitive spirit of the participants, a tradition passed down through countless families.

But the Metcalfe Fair offered even more.

Spectators roared as cars collided in the ever-popular demolition derby, a spectacle of organized chaos that has become a fair favourite. Strolling through the grounds, visitors discovered an array of local vendors, tantalizing food stalls filling the air with delicious aromas, and the charming homecrafts building showcasing the incredible talents of local artisans.

A petting zoo delighted the younger attendees, while live music filled the evenings, creating a festive atmosphere that truly encapsulated the joy of harvest season.

For many, the Metcalfe Fair is more than just an event; it's a cherished family tradition, a thread weaving through the fabric of their lives.

"It's pretty much a family tradition," said Kevin, whose children, like so many others, grew up attending the fair. "They come here, get on the rides and meet up with people." This sentiment underscores the fair's unique ability to bring people together, fostering a sense of belonging and nostalgia that resonates deeply with its attendees year after year.

As the fair wrapped up its 169th season, it left behind not just memories of fun and excitement, but a reaffirmation of the strength and warmth of the Metcalfe community.