The attaining of a 150th year anniversary is a notable event in the history of any organization, especially if during that period steady progress from a small beginning has been continuous, with every prospect of still further achievements.
This can be aptly applied to the North and South Saanich Agricultural Society, which this year celebrates their 150th year of community effort and the oldest continuous agricultural fair west of the Great Lakes.
It is a far cry to 1868 and which takes us back to the early pioneer days of the Saanich Peninsula.
As farming, naturally was the chief business on this fertile country side, it is understandable that some of the pioneer farmers discussed the desirability of having an annual gathering of farmers, residents, and in fact all those interested in the country life of the Peninsula. 10 farmers met, and the foundations of this Society was duly laid, the primary objective being to encourage all the activities of the farm, garden, home and social life.
It was at this meeting that the name, under which the Society has been known since its inception was given, and which is often times shortened to the “Saanich Fair.”
Today the Society continues to honour our past founders and members by encouraging the community to participate in the 150th Saanich Fair. It’s mission for many years has been to promote agriculture into the future. The Fair encourages the community to continue the spirit of friendly completion between neighbours and friends alike by entering your wares, be that jams & jellies, vegetables, fruit, knitting, sewing, livestock, art, photography or treasured relics from the past. These exhibits make for wonderful viewing for all fairgoers young and old.
The focus is a family affair, every year the fair encourages families to come and enjoy the fairgrounds. Over 3000 people volunteer their time to put on the three day exhibition of sights and sounds.
This year the fair runs Sept. 1 to 3. The the headliners are: The Chris Buck Band on Saturday night followed by 54-40 Sunday night. The Society is looking forward to seeing everyone at the 150th Celebration of the Saanich Fair.
—submitted