Fall Fair 2009: an earthy tradition in its 96th year
As published in MapleLine Magazine: Aug.5, 2009
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by Mary P. Brooke
What is 96 years old and still going strong? The Sooke Fall Fair -- September 12 and 13, 2009! This year’s president Ida McDonald attributes long-time success to the community sponsorships and the spirit of volunteerism in Sooke. Established in 1913, over the years there has been an increasing number of junior entries and more awards. But otherwise the event is the same as it has been for almost a century, with a theme in 2009 of Agriculture Flourishes in Sooke. Last year’s fair focussed on the Year of the Potato.
This year the humble zucchini takes centre stage. This year’s new Great Sookeini Race challenges entrants to carve a zucchini into a race car and enter it to race down a ramp. Winners will be determined according to distance, originality and creativity. The zucchinis do not have to be homegrown. Entries due by Sept. 4.
The fair is organized by a group of volunteers who meet monthly throughout the year to keep plans moving ahead. A driving philosophy is to take pride in local natural resources and in the endeavours of individuals and families.
Grants were received from District of Sooke Council and the Juan de Fuca Regional District. Grants are also received through BC Fairs (through the Ministry of Agriculture). Robust advertising sales help with the cost to produce a comprehensive print directory (96 pages long) that is widely distributed free throughout Sooke. Revenues help with cash prizes, trophies, ribbons and awards.
In promoting this International Year of Natural Fibres, the fair organizers have included natural fibre classes in most sections, such as hand spinning, hobbies using natural fibres, and best coat in the rabbit classes. There will be a spinning wheel on site showing various natural fibres and how they knit up, says McDonald. The organizational feat of this fair is truly amazing, with well over a thousand entry categories to be won. Adult sections include produce, flowers, kitchencraft, needlecraft, hobbies, photography, art, literary art, wine & beer, poultry, rabbits, guinea pigs and honey. The children’s section has similar categories but also a preschool section, canning, ‘growing things’, and fibre arts.
This year’s Pet Parade is being held on Sunday (Sept.13 at 1 pm). Contestants are to meet on Eustace Road. MM
ADVERTISER on this page (page 17) in the Fall 2009 PRINT ISSUE of MapleLine Magazine: Double D Gardens, 1958 Maple Ave. S., Sooke, BC
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This article (as first published on page 17 in the print edition of Fall 2009 MapleLine Magazine), is Copyright 2009 Brookeline Publishing House Inc.