This past weekend, the Portage Ex Fair returned in full force with record-breaking attendance, expanded entertainment, and rave reviews from both visitors and vendors.
Fair general manager Heather Greenlay and Paul Trimble, chair of the Gate and Midway Committee, agree that the three-day celebration delivered a strong showing despite challenges like heat and Canada Day logistics.
New heights for attendance and vendor turnout
Greenlay confirms that this year’s vendor numbers doubled, both inside the MNP Exhibition Building and across the west lawn green space.
“Everyone who participated from the vendor side said they were very pleased with the fair and the setup, and the crowds that came by their booths,” says Greenlay.
That growth extended into competition entries, including light horse and mini horse classes, while 4-H cattle numbers remained consistent and strong.
Crowds flock to fun in the Kids Zone and petting zoo
The Kids Zone was a hub of energy throughout the weekend. Children lined up early and often for the bouncy castles, inflatable obstacle courses, and blow-up sports activities. The play area kept young fairgoers active and engaged between stage shows and animal events.
Meanwhile, the family-friendly petting zoo proved to be another major hit, offering an up-close experience with local farm animals separate from the 4-H barns. The space was consistently packed as children and parents alike enjoyed meeting furry friends such as goats, piglets, and chickens.
Gate success and on-the-ground impressions
Trimble, who worked the gates throughout the weekend, notes they saw big numbers at peak times.
“Saturday was probably, if not the biggest, one of our biggest single days we’ve ever had,” says Trimble.
While Friday was slower due to the heat and Sunday saw a small dip, he adds that the overall numbers stayed consistent with recent years.
Despite some common challenges, like brief entry delays during peak hours, Trimble says the committee worked hard to keep things flowing.
“You’re never going to have enough staff to deal with everybody all at once,” he says. “But we try to minimize the time that you wait in line.”
Organizing year-round and expanding next steps
Greenlay explains that the board starts planning just weeks after the fair ends, mapping out physical expansions for the vendor space and Kids Zone.
“We will be looking at where we can physically map out our grounds to expand the vendor areas,” she notes.
Greenlay also highlights the growing reputation of the Portage Ex fairgrounds, saying many new vendors and exhibitors were pleasantly surprised by the scenic layout.
“They absolutely love the setup, and that's why we're going to be looking at expanding more,” she adds.
Looking ahead and giving back
Trimble notes that planning next year’s fair will be tricky, with July 2026 dates creeping even closer to Canada Day due to midway scheduling demands.
Even with the behind-the-scenes balancing acts, both organizers encourage the community to stay engaged and return for another round of family fun in 2026 at the fair.
“For that $10, you get all of the Kids Zone activities, you get all of these wonderful vendors, food concessions, and a lemonade stand,” adds Greenlay. “You get the cattle shows, the horse shows, and you get inside the MNP where all the vendors are located, with some being outdoors as well.”
Related stories:
- 4-H members showcase skills ahead of Portage Ex
- 4-H youth gear up for annual livestock sale
- 4-H calves ready to shine at Portage Ex Fair
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