THUNDER BAY— The Murillo Fair is back this weekend for its 135th year.
Lindsey Kosolowski, president of the Oliver Agricultural Society, said this event happens on the third weekend of August every year at the Murillo Fairgrounds.
“We are open Friday evening, all day Saturday, and Sunday until 6 p.m. And it should be a really great time,” she said.
Koslowski said she's glad the fair is growing and that it provides a sense of pride for the local farm community to see the fairgrounds being upgraded.
“Well, the Murillo Fair has been around since 1890, so this is our 135th year, we've been supporting the community for a very long time, and we're always trying to create new initiatives for the community to use the grounds,” she said.
Over the course of the weekend, Koslowski said there will be a variety of events and activities for the entire family to enjoy, including chlidren's activities such as balloon stylists and princesses.
Traditionally, pony rides are the fair's most popular attraction, Kosolowski said.
“This year, similar to other years, we have Canuck amusements, we have pony rides, ... lawnmower racing, craft and animal exhibits,” she said.
Seeing community members from around the city enjoy the farm atmosphere and watching it grow every year gives a sense of pride, Kosolowski said.
“I love the fair every year. I'm a third generational board member, so just seeing it going every year, going strong, and just watching it evolve over the years from being like horse racing to lawn mower racing to having carnival rides and the all-time favourites every year, animals and crafts and kids, those are the top three of mine.”
Kosolowski said the amusement ride bands will be available for purchase at the event.
“If you want tickets, you come in through the fair and you can get tickets right from their booth,” she said.
“Ride bands are from a separate vendor, they're from Canuck Amusements, so I don't know that information, but to get into the fair, it's $10 for adults, kids 5 and under are free, five to 18 is $5, and adults 55 and older are $5,” she said.
A schedule with all events and their times and ticket information is posted on the fair's website, Kosolowski said.
