The Arborg Agricultural Fair returned in full force this past weekend, filling the fairgrounds with a lively mix of horsepower, handmade goods, and hometown hospitality.
Held just south of Arborg beside the Silver Community Centre, the two-day event ran Saturday and Sunday with everything from gymkhana events to wild pony races, local vendors, and two bustling beer gardens.
Saturday featured action from noon to midnight
The gates opened at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 19, as visitors poured in for a full schedule. The Merchant Mall and food trucks were busy all afternoon, while kids flocked to the Ricklyn Petting Zoo, water tag games, and inflatable activities in the Kids Zone.
The Antique Tractor Pull got underway at 1 p.m., running alongside the high-powered ATV Mud Bog races. Horse fans gathered for the Turn N’ Burn Horse Gymkhana, which began shortly after noon.
The HRA Rodeo took center stage at 5 p.m., with riders showing off their skills and grit. During intermission, wild pony races brought a burst of excitement that had the crowd on their feet.
Saturday night turned up the volume
After a long day outdoors, the energy shifted to the West Beer Gardens and main tent for the family-friendly social, headlined by local band Up In Flames. From 8 p.m. to 1 a.m., fairgoers danced, sang, and took turns riding the mechanical bull, which ran until 11 p.m.
Sunday served up pancakes and more rodeo thrills
Sunday, July 20, kicked off with a pancake breakfast inside the hall, courtesy of Access Credit Union. Guests then gathered for an HRA Slack Performance beginning at 9 a.m., with additional Merchant Mall hours, food trucks, and family activities launching at noon.
The Grey Cup Community Tour made its stop at the fairgrounds that afternoon, offering fans a chance to snap a photo with Canadian football’s top prize.
Meanwhile, the second Antique Tractor Pull and another HRA Rodeo performance kept the stands full. Wild pony racing returned during the rodeo’s intermission, drawing big cheers from the Sunday crowd.
Cash-only didn’t stop the fun
Most activities at the fair operated on a cash-only basis, but attendees came prepared. Food trucks and some vendors provided additional payment options.
From muddy races to mini donuts, mechanical bulls to majestic horses, this year’s Arborg Agricultural Fair delivered a little something for everyone and a lot of heart.
Related stories:
- Carman Fair offers full weekend of family fun
- Portage Ex Fair breaks records and delivers family fun for all ages
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