Kettleby Fair is set for this Saturday
By Bill Rea

It's become a tradition in Kettleby, and its 30th edition is set to go this Saturday.

The annual Kettleby Fair will once again be centered in Tyrwhitt Park in the heart of the hamlet, as well as throughout other surrounding areas. The festivities will run from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

This past weekend was not the greatest, at least in terms of weather, and fair organizers are hoping they have put that behind them. Gary Vogan, a member of the organizing committee, said they hoped to be "rid of the weather weekend."

In many ways, this year's fair is going to offer a lot of what regular patrons have come to expect. "It's kind of the same sort of thing," Vogan commented, although he did say there are a couple of new wrinkles.

About 32 crafters are lined up to show their creations and goods, and Vogan said about 10 of them will be new to Kettleby Fair. The types of crafts will include paintings, woodwork, food products, embroidery, quilted goods, etc.

He also said this year's loonie draw promises to be "better than ever." The prizes will include an iPod, as well as a $300 gift certificate for Yorkdale Shopping Centre. And there are plenty of prizes beyond that. Vogan said they have tried to balance things out, making sure there are lots of items to attract children, men, women, etc.

For those approaching the fair from the east, they will find their walk to the gate a bit shorter than in the past, As the eastern parking area has been moved to a somewhat more convenient location.

And what would a fair be without food? There will be lots of it, including bacon on a bun, fresh fruit and Vogan declared that "fresh Kettleby corn for a dollar a cob is back."

He also said the fair parade promises to be bigger too, enhanced this year by the participation of the Keswick - Newmarket Shriners.

For people who may get a little weary of walking the fair, they will be able to sit in front of the main stage and take in some of the entertainment. It will include performances from the Fitzgerald School of Dance, noted children's entertainer Erick Traplin, the musical sounds of DAM Straight, Schomberg singing star Geoffrey Perry, Schomberg's Canadian idol Brock Groombridge, Flapjack and a demonstration of Morris dancing. As well, the reigning Miss York Region, King City's Lorraine Hanoun will be appearing in the parade, and touring the grounds.

Admission to the fair will be $6 for adults, and $2 for children under 12. There will be free parking available at both the east and west ends of Kettleby.