Haley Rose | Aug 08, 2018


The Parham Fair is coming up again – and the 126th has a few changes in store. Midways have always been a staple at country fairs, but in recent years, this has started to change. Rising costs in fuel and insurance have made it very difficult for midway companies to attend small events. Last year, this resulted in the demise of the annual Verona Jambouree, so it wasn’t a surprise to the Parham Agricultural Society when they learned a midway wouldn’t be possible for this year’s fair. But the show must go on! Vice President Carol Wagar was determined to provide an alternative, so on Saturday of this year’s fair, Parham will see the addition of Blackrock Climbers, which has something for all ages. There will be a rock-climbing wall (6+), a giant jumpy castle for the kids, and a bungee run obstacle course competition to compete with your friends and family. It’s a place to burn off some energy, and perhaps settle some friendly bets!

Just as our community is changing, the fair has to change too. As country fairs all over the province are fading away, the Parham Fair is determined to remain a vibrant celebration of agriculture and community in Central Frontenac. The history that it represents for our area is irreplaceable – in fact, it is the last fair remaining in Frontenac County. This history makes it worth protecting. The first fair took place at the Funeral Home, with homemade quilts hung to disguise the coffins. Although that has changed (phew!), otherwise the Parham Fair is much as it always has been: A weekend to celebrate the end of haying season, a chance to see your neighbours, and maybe show off your pie-baking abilities or that new heifer. It is the hope of the Parham Agricultural Society that these core elements will stay the same for another 126 years.

All proceeds taken from the gate and all events go right back to the Parham Agricultural Society to produce next year’s Fair. If you would like to volunteer at the fair, or as an organizer for next year, you can message on Facebook or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. See you August 18 and 19 at the Parham Fair!

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