News 2024

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CAFE Delegates Visits Markham Fairgrounds!

On Wednesday, November 13th, Markham Fairgrounds was honored to host approximately 200 delegates from the Canadian Association of Fairs and Exhibitions (CAFE) 2024 convention. The event began at 11:00AM and concluded at 1:00PM, starting with a warm welcome from our General Manager, Bruce MacKenzie, who delivered opening remarks alongside members of the Board of Directors and Past Presidents. As a proud sponsor of the 2024 CAFE convention, Markham Fair was delighted to showcase its facilities and heritage with CAFE delegates.

Bruce MacKenzie presented on the rich history of the Markham and East York Agricultural Society, which owns Markham Fairgrounds, home of the annual Markham Fair. He shared insights into our relocation from the original grounds near Highway 7 and 48, and highlighted the versatility of the Fairgrounds. In addition to hosting the annual Markham Fair, the grounds serve as a venue for various events, including warehouse sales, concerts, and private rentals. However, the Society operates as landlords rather than event promoters.

The presentation also covered highlights of the dedication and scale of our volunteer force. With approximately 800 volunteers organized into 75 volunteer-led committees. Markham Fair is made possible through the hard work and commitment of the committee members and community.

The 2024 Markham Fair welcomed approximately 50,000 attendees over the four days. Delegates posed many thoughtful questions, ranging from the organization of popular attractions like the demolition derby, to admissions fees, and the management of large-scale events.

Following the presentation, delegates enjoyed two breakout sessions touring the Fairgrounds’ facilities, including our interconnected buildings that allow for seamless access between spaces. Past Presidents and Board members were also available to answer further questions and engage with delegates on the history and operations of the Fairgrounds.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the CAFE delegates for their visit and look forward to future collaborations to promote agricultural fairs across Canada.

“Highlights from the CAFE delegates’ tour on the Fairgrounds”

Sunday High School Volunteer Sign-Up CANCELLED

We hope you’re doing well. 

We wanted to let you know that we have been overwhelmed by the response to our high school volunteer program this year. Over 200 students signed up in the past week. As a result, we have reached total capacity in our two sign-up events and cannot accommodate additional participants. Therefore, we will cancel our third sign-up event scheduled for Sunday, September 22, 2024, from 2 pm to 5 pm.

We are grateful for the enthusiastic interest of the high school students in the 180th Markham Fair’s high school volunteer program and regret any inconvenience this may cause. We encourage those unable to secure a spot volunteering this year to consider applying early for next year’s program.

Thank you for your continued support and understanding. We look forward to volunteering together at the 181st Markham Fair and hope to see you as a visitor at the 180th Markham Fair.

Best regards,

Brandon, Candice, and Hayley
Markham Fair
studentvolunteer@markhamfair.ca

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Markham Fair 2024: Celebrating 180 Years of Tradition and Fun!

Since its inception in 1844, the Markham Fair has been a community cornerstone, highlighting the best in Agriculture, Livestock, and Local Craftsmanship, while evolving to include a wide range of modern entertainment from thrilling midway rides and live music performances to agricultural showcases and craft competitions, there’s something for everyone at this year’s Fair!

President’s Welcome Message

I am pleased to welcome everyone to the 180th year of the Markham Fair! What began as a small, single-day fair for farmers to showcase their hard work has evolved into Canada’s largest four day fall fair. All our Board of Directors, Staff, and Volunteers have worked hard to put together an incredible 4 days of fun and entertainment and we hope that our Fairgoers enjoy all the sights and sounds of this year’s Markham Fair!

What are you most excited about for this year’s fair?

I am most excited to see every person who comes through our gates to experience what makes Markham Fair so great. We get to welcome both longtime visitors and new fairgoers onto our grounds every year and it is so great to get to see how much they enjoy Markham Fair and all it has to offer.

Can you tell us about any new initiatives or attractions this year?

In addition to all our returning events like the demolition derby, truck and tractor pulls, monster trucks and super dogs, you can always look forward to new classes in our Homecraft Buildings showcasing the talents of our local community members. We also have a Bluey & Bingo meet and greet on Sunday October 6, which is sure to be a hit with our youngest fairgoers.

What message do you have for the community and Fairgoers?

My message for the community and Fairgoers as they visit Markham Fair this year is to not only take the time to experience all the great attractions, vendors and shows, but also explore all the ways in which we promote agriculture education. The theme of the Fair this year is “Back in Time” which is fitting as we look back on 180 years of Markham Fair. In keeping with some of the original goals of the early years of our fall fair. I encourage everyone to take time to explore all the ways in which agriculture is promoted and showcased throughout our 4 days,

The Early Days of Markham Fair

The Markham Fair, a significant part of Ontario’s agricultural heritage, dates to 1844. In its early days, the fair began with a school children’s parade featuring decorated bicycles, wagons, and doll carriages, led by the Markham Girls Band. Public schools participated, and square dancing followed on Saturday evenings. The original fairgrounds were located at the corner of Highway 7 and 48, where horse racing and wagering were major attractions.

In 1968, when I started dating Gerri Cosburn, it became a natural step to join the Markham Fair family. Gerri’s father, Howard Cosburn, was a past president and a prominent member of the board of directors, making the fair a significant part of their lives, and I was honored to be given a role, one that I have cherished for many years. At that time, the Markham Fairgrounds were still located at the southeast corner of Highway 7 and 48.

Notable Changes and Developments

In 1976, the original fairgrounds were sold, and a new road leading into the old site from Highway 7 was named Cosburn Road in honor of the Cosburn family’s contributions. A plaque was also placed at the site, marking the 34 acres as a proud part of Markham’s history.

The fair moved to the Stan Watson farm in 1977, with the new grounds designed to accommodate attractions like tractor pulls, horse pulls, demolition derbies, and monster truck shows. The layout mirrored the old fairgrounds but expanded to include a mile-and-a-quarter racetrack for quarter horse racing.

Educational Initiatives

The Markham Fair has always emphasized education as part of its mission. Initiatives like the “Pizza Project” taught schoolchildren about pizza ingredients, while “Sheep Focus” demonstrated sheep shearing and yarn spinning, helping young visitors understand the importance of agriculture.

Community Impact

The fairgrounds feature various buildings, including the General Exhibits Building and Homecraft Building, which host entries for schoolchildren, grains, flowers, crafts, and preserves. The southeast corner of the grounds includes an indoor ring for 4-H activities and agricultural shows.

Currently, 40 acres of the fairgrounds are fenced for outdoor displays and food booths run by service clubs and community groups. An additional 60 acres outside the fenced area is used for parking.

The Future of Markham Fair

The Markham Fair has expanded from a two-day to a four-day event, held annually on the weekend before Thanksgiving. It continues to maintain strong relationships with local councils, emergency services, 4-H clubs, and other community groups, ensuring that it remains a vital part of Markham’s agricultural tradition.

What’s in Store?

Exciting Carnival Rides & Games
Hands-on Craft Workshops
Agricultural Food Tent: Learn how food goes from farm to table!
Live Entertainment: Unforgettable performances for all ages
Farm Park Activity: Explore the Strawbale section in concessions for some interactive farm fun
Unique Vendors: Personalized Name Art, laminated placemats, and more!

Don’t forget to grab your tickets in advance and take advantage of our pre-fair discounts, available on our social media pages. Mark your calendars – we can’t wait to celebrate 180 years of fun, family, and tradition with you!

Date: October 3rd – October 6th, 2024
Location: Markham Fairgrounds, 1080 McCowan Road, Markham, Ontario, L3P 3J3

Your health and safety are our top priorities at the Markham Fair. This year, we have enhanced our safety measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. We are pleased to announce that hand sanitizing stations will be strategically placed throughout the fairgrounds. These stations will be easily accessible, allowing you to maintain good hygiene while enjoying all the fun and festivities. Stay safe and have a great time at Markham Fair!

Vendor Spotlight: Meet Our Local Heroes

A Culinary Journey: Taste the World at the Markham Fair
This year, our food vendors are bringing a world of flavors to your taste buds. From classic Canadian poutine to exotic Thai street food, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in gourmet burgers, artisanal ice creams, and vegan delights. Come hungry and leave happy!

Looking for Family Fun at the Markham Fair?

We’ve got activities for kids of all ages! From exciting carnival rides and games to hands-on craft workshops and storytelling sessions, there’s something for everyone. Visit the face painting booth for a colorful souvenir, and don’t miss the educational experience at the Agricultural Food Tent, where kids can learn how food goes from farm to table.

Be sure to check out the Farm Park in the Strawbale section under concessions! It’s the perfect place for kids to explore and have fun with interactive farm-themed activities.

With unique vendors offering personalized Name Art and laminated placemats, the Markham Fair promises an exciting, fun-filled, and educational day for your little ones.

Meet the Farmers: Farm-to-Table Experience

Discover where your food comes from with our farm-to-table experience. Meet local farmers, learn about sustainable farming practices, and sample fresh produce straight from the farm. It’s a great way to connect with the community and support local agriculture.