Whether or not you live on a farm, when Labour Day weekend rolls around the Shawville Fair takes over the area. It is the weekend that our little town becomes so busy that there’s traffic in the streets, nowhere to park, our restaurants and stores are packed and our park is filled with campers. I love seeing all the trailers and equipment start rolling in throughout the week – it’s wonderful.
The Pontiac Agricultural Society is proud to host the Valley’s most family friendly fair and there truly is something for everyone. Whether you are interested in livestock, horticulture or homecrafts there are classes for everyone to enter. There are animals to visit, rides to try, treats to snack on, entertainers to take in and so much more.
The exhibitors who take part in the Shawville Fair are proud to show off their hard work and often more than willing to answer questions when they have a moment during their busy day. Not everyone, big or small, who lives in the Pontiac has had a chance to spend time on a farm. What a great opportunity to get a glimpse into the life of a farmer.

Here are a few things to keep in mind to help out the exhibitors and to keep your families safe:
When visiting in the barns ask permission to touch an animal before doing so. Not only will this prevent you from startling the animal, it will also give the exhibitor a chance to let you know the best spot for petting. For example dairy cattle, the exhibitors work hard to create a nice straight top line on their animal by blowing the hair on their back up with a hair dryer and spraying it into place, so it is important not to pat this area down. Depending on the type of animal being shown the exhibitors will do different things to make their animal look their best, so it is important to ask.
During the livestock shows the yard between the barns and the show rings are closed to give those showing a safe and easy route to and from the ring with their animals. It can sometimes be a hassle to walk back around the front of the buildings but it allows the shows to run smoothly and keeps visitors safe and out of the way.
It is important to wash your hands after interacting with any of the animals.
Sometimes the cows and horses can be a little intimidating to some and if that is the case for you or your family don’t forget about the Agriculture Awareness Tent and the Poultry Barn.
The Agriculture Awareness Tent is filled with animals and activities for the whole family. It is a great place to give young ones a chance to explore and play away from the hustle and bustle of the midway.
In the Poultry Barn you have a chance to get up close and personal with all the small animals being exhibited as well as those taking part in the petting zoo. There are even pony rides right outside.
Both of these spots are filled with educational information and often you can find a volunteer who will be happy to share their knowledge.
For those with little ones looking for a place to change diapers or a quiet place to nurse or feed a bottle, there is a private tent just for you. Located near the front of the Ladies Hall there is a tent set up with tables and benches to make sure everyone is comfortable while at the fair. There’s also a tent area with picnic tables set up near the poultry barn and small rides for families to take a break, have a snack or rest their feet.
There are all sorts of other activities for children ranging from the Pet Show to Zucchini Races to the Kid’s Stage. For more information about the activities taking place at the Shawville Fair check out their website, http://www.shawvillefair.ca. We hope everyone enjoys themselves over the Labour Day weekend and don’t forget your hat and sunscreen while you are out having fun.

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