Ferris Wheels and Wagon Wheels is the theme, and there will be lots of opportunities to see both in action at the 2025 Vankleek Hill Fair.
This year’s fair begins on Thursday, August 14 and continues until Sunday, August 17 at the Vankleek Hill Fairgrounds, located on County Road 10 at the western edge of Vankleek Hill.
“Everything’s coming together,” said Vankleek Hill Agricultural Society President Cory Nixon.
During the week before the fair, work was being done at the fairgrounds to ensure everything was ready and repaired in time for opening day. The weather forecast for fair days looks good, but Nixon said even some rain would be welcome because conditions are so seriously dry right now for local farmers.
The highlights of the 2025 Vankleek Hill Fair include the opening parade which leaves the arena and community centre parking lot at 6 pm on Thursday and is to arrive at the fairgrounds and pass by the grandstand at 6:45 pm. The opening ceremony will follow at 7 pm. Miniature chuckwagon races are new this year at the fair and will take place on Thursday evening.
Friday’s events at the Vankleek Hill Fair include the always significant Holstein Show, the Heavy Horse Line and Hitch Classes, and the Horse Pull.
The Heavy Horse Hitch Classes continue on Saturday, along with the North American Six Horse Hitch Classic. The 4-H Dairy Heifer Show is also on Saturday.
The biggest event of the fair for many people is on Saturday evening when automobiles, making their last trip before the wrecking yard, compete in the Demolition Derby. The derby always draws a huge crowd, eager to see the smashing, crashing, spinning tires, and maybe even some smoke and flames.
Sunday at the Vankleek Hill Fair is much quieter, but no less enjoyable. The day includes the English Light Horse Show, 4-H Beef Achievement Day, Farm Stock and Antique Tractor Pull, and Beef Show.
During all four days at the fair, the Midway, Education Tent, live entertainment, and of course, the Beer Tent will be open. Admission prices for the fair include access to Midway rides.
For the full schedule of events and activities at the 2025 Vankleek Hill Fair, see the Wednesday, August 13 edition of The Review, or go to https://vankleekhillfair.ca/. Tickets may also be purchased at The Review, online, and other local businesses.
