Farm Fair in La Corey returns with expanded Kids Zone

This Saturday, Willow Prairie Agricultural Society’s signature event, the Farm Fair in La Corey returns for its sixth showing.

Organizers elected to move the event up to June to give more opportunities for families to come and be less crowded against other events.

There’s now more than ever before to do.

“We’ve kind of added on to it every year just to keep it rolling and get bigger and bigger,” said president Bridgette Lesyk. 

Ranging from vintage farm equipment to musical performances, a Kids Zone to artisan market, barbeque to a Show and Shine, they are hopeful to continue growing this event every year.

It all begins at 9:00am with the quilt exhibition at the Willow Prairie Hall, which will be judged later that day.

The main action begins at 10:00am when families will be taken for a horse and wagon ride to the fairgrounds.

Organizer Sheri McAuley says they’ve put a lot of focus on the Kids Zone this year. Along with the usual carnival games and face painting and photo booth, there are also simulations of different farm chores for a hands-on experience.

“Historically, we have had a very small Kid Zone fare and this year we have decided to expand it to bring in all ages and groups of people to enjoy it,” she told Lakeland Connect. 

“We have some traditional carnival games and activities, but then we have agricultural activities like milking the cow. We have some roping the cows, like the steers games. Just with hula hoops and stuff, you’re actually milking a pretend cow.” 

There’s also squirrel hunting, a stick horse race, and axe throwing, combined with the staples of bouncy castles and crafts. 

A core of about 10 directors along various volunteers and 20 membership partners are coming together to make this Farm Fair possible.

It is a big undertaking, but one that has also been well-supported since its inception.

“Let’s celebrate our farmers seeding, calving, haying. Our community comes together just to showcase this and we’re hoping like I said, to get bigger every year,” said McAuley. 

The entertainment will include Ukrainian dance, the Bonnyville Singers choir, and Dave Collins from 11:00am-4:00pm.

Another feature is the Fancy Fur and Flocks sale. While the kids enjoy the petting zoo, you can buy anything from goats, sheep, ducks, chickens, and eggs. 

Plus, the “famous” Tom the Turkey, a friendly guy, will say hello.

Local farmers are bringing some modern and vintage pieces of equipment to admire.

A barbecue with good eats will help those appetites. Whether its hotdogs, hamburgers, fries, poutine, there will be a concession for candy, popcorn and cotton candy. Beantrees will be on-site doing bubble tea, ice coffee, and Italian soda. 

Even though this event hasn’t happened yet, the plans are thick for next year as well.

One feature being teased for the future is a rhubarb festival, a contest for the best sweet and savory. 

Another idea is the potential for a dance to attract more young adults.

Regardless, tomorrow, there will certainly be plenty to do.

“It’s a great opportunity for the local kids to learn about farming if they’re not exposed to it in town.”