Ninette Fair

Ninette Fair Prepares for New Events and More Livestock “Ninette’s annual fair celebrates its 70th year with both new and old, and something for everyone!” NINETTE, MB – Volunteers are eagerly preparing for the 70th annual Ninette Fair to be held at the Ninette fairgrounds on June 13 & 14. The fair has been a staple in the area since 1956, and is boasting both traditional and new events that are sure to keep everyone having fun. PLAS executive member, Leanne Treloar, is excited as the fair this appraoches. “The fair has always been a big part of our communities. It brings family and friends together, sharing in all the fun filled events that the fair has planned.” Tradition continues with a light horse competition featuring 9 events, which is sanctioned by the MGRA (Manitoba Gymkhana Rodeo Association). Pee Wee, Junior, and Senior age groups will kick the dust up in the newly revamped riding arena taking on events like halter, Western Pleasure, poles, barrels, and more. With $2,300 in prize money up for grabs, the fair producers are expecting lots of excitement and energy. The Youth Cattle show returns this year with over 30 head of cattle expected to participate. Area 4-H groups have been eager to put the Ninette Fair on their calendars, as it acts as a great warm up to the summer show season. Those looking to fill their belly’s will get their wish granted as the traditional beef dinner returns this year after being sidelined since before 2020. This annual meal had always been a staple to the fair, and it is expected to bring in 200 people for supper. The meal will be in the tent on Friday night, with service starting at 4:30 pm. Friday night is family night, and will feature picnic areas, hayrides around Ninette, and old-time games like three legged races and egg tosses. There will be live entertainment in the tent all evening, wrapping up with the first ever Friday night Teen dance with a local, high-energy DJ. In addition to the light horse and cattle show, Saturday will be the big day to be at the Ninette Fair. There’s a food truck to keep the hunger at bay, a beer garden to keep you cool and watered, and lots of entertainment for everyone. Kids events include face painting, bouncy castles, a crafting area, as well as stories and visiting with special guests Elsa & Spiderman. Then there’s the return of the hobby horses; kids can participate in races. Kids can bring their own hobby horse or some will be provided. Families will be able to take in the traditional pancake breakfast at the hall, enjoy hayrides around Ninette, take in the farmer’s market and displays, and check out local performers and bands in the tent. Also returning this year is the Ninette Show & Shine. Ninette Gas will be once again be putting up prizes for best in class divisions of cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Last year saw over 50 vehicles participating, and the hope is to double that number. There is no entrance fee, and all are invited to participate in the parade. Eva Miller has been looking after the annual parade for a number of years, saying, “Every year the parade is different. The highlight for me is during the line up. It is hearing the laughter of the participants waiting to start, or putting finishing touches on floats or shinning up a collector car. It’s also what I hear as I make my way to announce the parade; the laughter and conversations, the excitement of the children as they patiently wait for the bag pipes the horses and floats!” The parade will start at 12 noon, with the route maintaining it’s traditional directions. If you are hoping to be in the parade, it’s encouraged to pre-register with Eva Miller. Marshalling begins at 11:00 am. This year features the first ever Ag Olympics, a series of challenges for teams to go head to head competition. “We really wanted to bring a high energy event that was fun and exciting to the fair. The Ag Olympics will do that, and it’s a great way to show off some farmer skills!” says PLAS president, Bryan Podworny Similar to King and Queen farmer, events will include bale stacking, bale throwing, a relay race, roping, and even a tractor pull! Teams can register with Bryan Podworny, and should start practicing now! Entrance for 4 person teams is just $20.00 per team, with the top three placements taking home part of the entry fees. To top the night off, the fair will wrap up with a Saturday night social in the beer garden. Fronted by Boissevain native, Mike Lamb, the band 8 Track Shuffle will get the party going. This has become a great way to wrap up a great fair, and is always a great time. The PLAS is always looking for help to bring special events to the Pelican Lake area. Information on the fair, becoming a volunteer, and PLAS news can be found at their website. www.pelicanlakeagsociety.com