Bolton Fall Fair celebrates 165 years next weekend with new rodeo and more

By Brock Weir

Bolton's venerable Fall Fair will mark 165 years of autumn family fun and agricultural showcases next weekend.

Taking place at the Albion Bolton Fairgrounds, located at 150 Queen Street South, Bolton, the Bolton Fall Fair opens Thursday, September 21, and runs through Sunday, September 24.

Fair-goers can expect the traditional and time-tested attractions of a midway, demolition derby, petting zoo, and more, but new this year will be the Rawhide Rodeo, presented by Stewart's Equipment, and a Barn Dance featuring live music from Hillbilly Martini.

“A new event happening this year for the very first time, is the Rawhide Rodeo brought to you by Stewart's Equipment, taking place on Friday at 6:30 p.m. and Saturday at 11 a.m.,” say organizers.

 “Another new event taking place on Friday night is a Barn Dance with live music from Hillbilly Martini.

“Many of your Fall Fair favourites are back this year, including the Demolition Derby Saturday evening starting at 7 p.m. Also returning is Global Pet Foods Super Dogs Shows throughout the weekend – you will not want to miss the skills of these dogs.

“It wouldn't be a fair, without the midway, open all weekend, beginning Thursday night for Toonie Rides. There will be lots of free activities, included with the price of admission. This includes but is not limited to: Tiger Paws Petting Zoo, Ag Learning Kids Zone, Pony Rides, Buskers, live bands, face painting and balloon animals, Anna and Elsa Meet and Greet, and Paw Patrol Meet and Greet. You will not want to miss out on all of this excitement.”

In messages included as part of the Fair's program, the significance of the milestone anniversary was underscored by Mayor Annette Groves on behalf of Council.

“On behalf of the Town of Caledon, thank you to the Albion and Bolton Agricultural Society for your ongoing commitment to bringing together our community and preserving the rural traditions of Caledon,” she said. “We also thank the many volunteers who spend months preparing for this community event. We proudly celebrate the 165th anniversary of the Bolton Fall Fair; its memorable history and promising future for generations to come.”

Added Robert Matson, President of the 2023 Albion & Bolton Agricultural Society: “Each year, our dedicated volunteers put on the Albion Bolton Truck and Tractor Pull and the Albion Bolton Fall Fair. Our events celebrate all our community offers and provide exhibitions, demonstrations and competitions promoting agriculture. Even if you've been every year of your life, we assure you that you will always find a new experience at our events.

“We would also invite you to look at the classes and specials for this 165th year of our fair! Whether you are planting a garden for the first time, passing on the family quilting tradition, or just learning your ABCs, there is something for you to enter at the Fair. With the theme of ‘Potatoes, Pumpkins, and Pies – Oh My,' we are eager to see what you bring to the table. We encourage you to mark your calendars and join us for our special events. Whether you come for the food, the music or the rides, you will surely have a wonderful time. We look forward to seeing you all there!”

For a full schedule of events, visit boltonfair.ca.