Albion and Bolton Agricultural Society hosts 167th annual Fall Fair

By Riley Murphy

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The 167th Bolton Fall Fair, hosted by the Albion and Bolton Agricultural Society, had something for everyone this year.

The three-day celebration was action-packed, featuring delicious food, thrilling rides, neck-to-neck competitions, and endless fun.

First Vice President of the Albion Bolton Agricultural Society, Heather French, shared that this year's theme, Apple Trees and Honey Bees, was “beautifully showcased in entries across all categories—thank you to everyone who participated and helped make the fair so vibrant and memorable.”

Reflecting on the weekend, she said it was “amazing.”

“We are so grateful to everyone who came out to celebrate with us at the 167th Bolton Fall Fair. Your support, energy, and community spirit made this year truly special,” says French. “A heartfelt thank you to our generous sponsors, your continued support helps keep this cherished tradition alive year after year.”

The Opening Ceremonies kicked off the fair on Friday.

At the ceremony, area dignitaries spoke on the importance not only of the fair, but also of those who run it.

Dufferin-Caledon MPP Sylvia Jones shared that “these fairs do not happen without an incredible amount of volunteer work; make sure you acknowledge all of the work that they've done, not only this weekend to make sure that you have a great weekend of family and friends and learning and fun, but also the work that they do all through the year to plan for this.”

Mayor Annette Groves shared that she recalls a time when some of the volunteers that day were just young kids attending the event themselves.

“You're still here volunteering and helping out,” says Groves. “This doesn't happen without volunteers.”

French called volunteers, “the true backbone of the Bolton Fall Fair.”

“Their dedication and tireless efforts brought the fair to life and made everything possible.”

Following the opening ceremonies was the ambassador competition.

The ambassador program seeks to identify youth leaders who will represent the organization at various events, fostering a sense of community spirit and promoting agricultural awareness.

The two in this year's competition were Kayla Emmerton and Maddy Boughen.

The Senior Fair Ambassador competition concluded with Kayla Emmerton nominated as the winner.

Friday wrapped up with free line dancing lessons and a barn dance featuring Hillbilly Martini.

The fair didn't stop for long, as it resumed at 10 a.m. on Saturday.

Attendees could enjoy the live petting zoo, Ag Learning Kids Zone, free pony rides, the Antique Tractor and Farm Equipment Display, Pedal Kart Raceway, Kiddie Pedal Pull, Chilli Cook-Off, and more.

4-H was present at the fair, featuring various shows, including a dairy show where 4-H members proudly presented their calves, showcasing the months of commitment and care they had invested.

Peel 4-H Ambassador Emma Matson spoke on how 4-H is much more than just a club.

“4-H has changed my life in so many great ways. I've learned so many new skills and valuable lessons that I'll take with me for the rest of my life. I would recommend 4-H to any youth who would like another activity or just something to do after school.”

Running throughout the fair was also the live demo stage, where onlookers could learn skills such as quilt making, knitting, crocheting, and more.

Saturday afternoon began to heat up as the ever-popular family competitions emerged.

Competitions included apple pie eating, husband-and-wife calling, arm wrestling, and apple bobbing.

The apple bobbing concluded with a video replay to confirm the winner, who had a millisecond win.

During the competitions was the lip sync battle, where returning participants Hailey and Sophie prevailed with their “Duck Song” performance.

Laura Slocki, Hailey's mother, shared that they have come to the fair every year since the kids were babies.

The duo, she said, love to come to the fair to see their friends and everyone from the community.

“We always go to a local fair, we want to support local events,” said Slocki. “They put on a great event; it's always a ton of fun for the kids.”

But it was not only about activities for the kids, “Love having the beer tent for the adults,” she added, laughing.

Saturday wrapped up with power wheels, the demolition derby, a beef barbecue and Ramblin Soul.

The last day of the fair was Family Day.

It featured a pancake breakfast, more family-friendly competitions, endless shows, and wrapped up with the closing ceremonies.

On Sunday, the Society waived admission prices and instead requested non-perishable food items as admission to Caledon Community Services.

“The community responded in a big way,” says French.

They collected an incredible 3,947 pounds of food, more than double what was donated last year. 

All items were delivered to Caledon Community Services to help support local families in need.

“We can't wait to see you all again next year!” says French.