By Matthew Elder

With two glorious months of summer ahead, Labour Day may feel like a distant date on the calendar. But at the offices of the Brome County Agricultural Society, preparations are already well underway. This year, Brome Fair comes early, with Labour Day falling on September 1st.

This will be the 169th edition of the fair, a tradition that began in 1856 on the site of the old post office on Lakeside Road. It later moved to what is now Knowlton Academy, and finally to its current 18-acre grounds in Brome Village.

While much has evolved, the fair’s focus remains firmly rooted in agriculture. Local and regional farmers continue to bring their finest cattle and livestock, vying for ribbons—especially the coveted red for first place. As in the early days, there are also horse races and carriage competitions.

Among the more unusual early events was a Best Looking Child contest, introduced in the 1880s to promote good health and parenting practices. It remained on the program until the late 1930s. Athletic competitions were also a staple in the fair’s early years.

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A Tradition of Growth and Community

Over time, Brome Fair expanded to include exhibits from local producers, tradespeople, and artisans. A favourite for many is the Horticultural Building, showcasing displays of vegetables, fruit, and baking.

When it comes to food, there’s no shortage of choice. Long-time favourites like the Bloomin’ Onion, Derby Burger, and Tony’s sausages are joined this year by new offerings including:

• Brome Lake Duck Poutine
• Sutton Bagels
• Crème Biscuits ice-cream truck

A highlight for many is a stroll through the livestock barns, where farmhands groom animals and share stories with fellow exhibitors. Sadly, as in recent years, there will be no poultry or small animal competitions this year.

Fair operations director Amanda Tryhorn reports that around 300 cows are expected this year, split evenly between beef and dairy breeds from 30 and 25 farms, respectively. Goats, sheep, and horses will also compete across six major categories:

• Beef
• Dairy
• Sheep
• Goats
• Horses
• 4-H (mixed competition held on closing day)

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Entertainment & Events

Music is a major draw, with Ty Baynton headlining Sunday night at the grandstand. The smaller stage near the exhibition halls will feature:

• Desert Heat
• Smokin’ Country
• Knowlton Harmony Band
• Youth Talent Show (Saturday afternoon)

Friday night’s barn dance in the arena will feature The Bounty Hunters.

Special grandstand events include:

• Truck Pull – Saturday at 7 p.m.
• Demolition Derby – Monday at 1 p.m.

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A Regional Favourite

Brome Fair remains the largest fair in the Eastern Townships, drawing over 30,000 visitors annually, including 36,400 in 2023 and a record 46,400 in 2022. The all-time high of 49,160 attendees was set in 1995.

With deep roots in the community and a spirit of celebration that spans generations, Brome Fair is not just a mark of the end of summer—it’s a vibrant celebration of rural life, tradition, and togetherness.