by Garrett Fodor
The exceptionally warm temperatures and humidity experienced over the weekend did not stop crowds of eventgoers from returning to the annual Comber Fair, following a two-year hiatus.
From baked goods and artwork to tractors and farm animals, all of the crowd favourites – along with some new twists – returned to the Comber Fair last weekend. The agricultural fair, rich in community heritage, has been around since 1859, with this year’s edition marking the 163rd time the fair has taken place.
“It’s been amazing to see everybody come out after waiting the last two-years to enjoy themselves, and we’ve offered a lot of entertainment and vendors and good quality fun out here this year,” Ron Chambers, President of the Comber Fair Board, said. “It’s so rewarding to see everyone back here smiling and enjoying it, following the year long lead up by the Board, along with our 100 volunteers.”
Chambers noted planning the fair is typically a full year-round commitment for the Board and volunteers. He added planning efforts have had to be put down and picked up quickly over the last two-years as COVID-19 restrictions changed constantly. While the planning over the last two-years has not been easy, he said the gap allowed for new entertainment to be added, in addition to new vendors for this year’s edition.
“We are extremely proud to have people here in Comber and show off our agricultural heritage and provide entertainment for everyone of all ages,” Chambers said. “While we still have our demolition derby, we had an opportunity to add a tractor pull this year and additional rides. We have seen an increase in tractors being shown and more. It’s exciting to once again be able to have the fair.”
The fair opened on Friday, with the car show in the evening. Festivities shifted to Main Street on Saturday morning for the parade, then to the tractor pull, before the demolition derby closed out the weekend festival on Sunday.
Chambers said he is grateful for the outpouring of community turnout and support this year. He thanked community members for attending the event, and the countless number of vendors and volunteers, who supported the fair.
As the festival came to a close, Chambers said the planning process has already begun for the next edition of the fair. He noted the fair is always looking for new members and volunteers to help, and anyone interested is invited to sign up and find information on its website, www.comberfair.com.