The smell of mini donuts, the sound of laughter from the midway and the sight of prize-winning pumpkins can only mean one thing — the Saanich Fair is back!
This Labour Day weekend marks the 157th edition of the fair, one of the oldest and most beloved agricultural events in Western Canada. Since 1868, the North and South Saanich Agricultural Society has brought together farmers, families and visitors for a celebration of community and country life.
Running from Saturday, August 30th to Monday, September 1st, the fairgrounds at 1528 Stellys Cross Road in Saanichton will come alive with rides, live music, livestock shows and thousands of exhibits.
This year’s theme, “Focus on Farming,” ties into the popular photography department and serves as a reminder of the fair’s agricultural heritage. With more than 6,750 entries across 29 departments, expect to see everything from home baking and needle art to preserves, honey, flowers and produce.
Animal lovers can check out the Poultry in Motion exhibit, visit the milking parlour and stroll through barns full of livestock. History buffs can stop by the Looking Back in Time display or explore the new history room.
Music fans have plenty to look forward to. The Saddleback Stage will feature live performances all weekend, plus we you want to catch these perfomances:
- Saturday night (8 p.m.): JUMP – a Van Halen Experience
- Sunday night (8 p.m.): The Trews—Canadian rock heavyweights with multiple gold and platinum albums, JUNO nominations and an impressive track record of radio hits.
Local talent like Pistol Whip will keep the daytime energy high, while the Wagon Wheel Stage in Tiny Town adds a family-friendly vibe.
For kids (and kids at heart), Tiny Town is a must-see. It features inflatables, pony rides, farm games, candy scrambles, face painting and balloon animals.
New this year is the West Coast Lumberjack Show, bringing chainsaw tricks and axe-throwing action to the fairgrounds. Shows run multiple times each day:
- Saturday: 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
- Sunday: 11:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m., 5 p.m.
- Monday: 12 p.m., 2:30 p.m.
Other highlights include blacksmith demonstrations, a dog show, Ryan Cook Carver, and the Instrument Zoo with the Greater Victoria Concert Band and Victoria Symphony.
The midway kicks things off Friday with a Sneak Peek from 3 to 11 p.m. (rides only, no gate admission). Wristbands are $45 in advance until August 28th and $52 after.
The fun continues:
- Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- Monday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Village Marketplace offers everything from local artisans to farm-fresh goods, while the Crooked Pitchfork Bistro provides a licensed spot to relax and enjoy the entertainment.
So grab the family and let the family tradition begin!
157th Saanich Fair
- Where: Saanich Fairgrounds, 1528 Stellys Cross Road, Saanichton
- When:
- Saturday & Sunday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Monday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Admission: Adults $16, Youth & Seniors $11, Kids 6 and under free
