GNE goes virtual, launches online activities

Even though the 2020 Fall Fair could not be held at the Great Northern Exhibition fairgrounds in the usual way due to the pandemic, organizers have found a way to offer some fair experiences virtually.
In its 165th year, and all things being normal, the fair would have been held over three days last weekend. To make up for it, fair organizers have launched a series of ongoing contests and activities online.
“We want to let the people know that we are still there. We are continuing on,” said Collingwood Agricultural Society president Joanne Gregson. “Even though we couldn’t be there physically we’d still like to have them involved. It benefits the community, as well as the fair. It gives them something to do.”
She said organizers have tried to include something for all ages.
There is a kids’ art category for elementary school students, and a high school age competition to design the cover of next year’s prize book. There are contest for cutest pet photo and best-dressed pet, along with a yard decoration contest starting with Halloween and continuing each holiday – Christmas, Easter, and Canada Day.
On Thanksgiving Saturday, Oct. 10, there will be a scavenger hunt for the whole family. Participants can register at the fairgrounds between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. and bring their completed scavenger hunt forms to the Station Park gazebo between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.
Homecraft is a fair tradition and there will be some hobby and craft related content available soon, including some cooking demos.
They are staying away from any cooking contests where judges would have to taste submissions in order to keep everyone safe.
Gregson said organizers are looking for sponsors to help cover some of the prize money they will be giving away.
All the details, including deadlines and prizes, are listed on the GNE website, at greatnorthernex.com.  

Calvin Bell, 7, is the winner of the first kids’ art contest. His drawing is of cattle, his favourite thing at the fair.