THUNDER BAY — The Canadian Lakehead Exhibition plans to stage its annual summer fair for the first time in three years.
CLE President Al Law says the five-day event will run from Aug. 10 to 14.
"We've already booked four major bands for the fair, and we've talked to the midway [operator]. We'll be following up with vendors, etc. that go into the Coliseum and other buildings, plus the food vendors," Law said Tuesday.
The performers already booked include Trooper, Kim Mitchell, Honeymoon Suite and Streetheart.
"You have to be pro-active...With Ontario saying 'no masks' probably by the end of the month or sooner, hopefully, there will be minor limitations to the public for access," Law said.
He noted that the CLE already works closely with the Thunder Bay District Health Unit – which operates immunization clinics on CLE property – on public health measures.
Law said there's a lot of work to do to plan for the fair, including arrangements for advanced ticket sales, but he's feeling "very positive" about the opportunity to hold a successful fair again.
"Having no fair the last two years, the CLE's gross revenue is down a lot. That's our biggest money-maker. And three years now, no Home and Garden Show. So we're looking at the possibility of having a fall show."
Another positive sign of a turnaround for the CLE this year is the return of social events.
Law said "We have seven social events scheduled for the Heritage Building in April, so things are moving."
Late next month, the exhibition grounds will also play host to the Great Benjamins Circus.
"We have to move ahead. It's good for the community, and a lot of people have been waiting. Hopefully, a lot of events in Thunder Bay start happening," Law added.
