For the 101st time another edition of the Westlock and District Agricultural Fair is in the books after thousands flooded the fair grounds to take in a weekend of fun.
Westlock and District Agricultural Society secretary Cheyanne Erickson said approximately 9,100 attended the events on Aug. 21, while 17,000 turned out Aug. 22, and a whopping 20,100 attended Aug. 23.
“Compared to last year Friday was down a little bit — we’re blaming it on the weather because it was a chilly day, but Saturday and Sunday were up,” Erickson said. “They were pretty much the best days we’ve had since I started six years ago.”
As for what it was that attracted so many, Erickson said she’s not quite sure, but did say that the near perfect weather on Saturday and Sunday likely helped.
The festivities kicked off on Friday morning with the 100-float strong parade. Scores of people braved the chilly temperatures and lined the streets to take in the parade.
Busby Fish and Game society took the overall title for best float, while the Westlock Veterinary Clinic took first place in the commercial category. The Westlock Foundation earned best non-commercial and Bella Epp won the miscellaneous category.
The rodeo ran Saturday and Sunday, giving way to the demolition derby which closed off the fair. Erickson said lots of spectators packed the bleachers for both.
“We had a few less competitors, but the spectators were up,” she said. “We had more people watching the rodeo than we’ve had in a number of years.”
The Hearts of the West trick riding show that went on during the intermission of Saturday’s rodeo was well-received and may return next year.
“I’ve heard a lot of good things about the trick riders we had and they really enjoyed themselves coming,” Erickson said. “They got themselves involved with other events so they added to the event outside of trick riding. We will probably be considering bringing them back because they were a fairly big draw.”
The North Central Alberta Baseball League’s semifinal series took place at Keller Field both Saturday and Sunday where the Westlock Red Lions booked their ticket to the league finals against the Camrose Axemen, who they defeated.
All in all Erickson said this year’s fair went off without a hitch.
“From what I hear there were no complaints from anyone,” she said. “It was a surprisingly successful year. Last year was our 100th and we were hoping for these numbers last year, but for whatever reason we got them this year.”
