Success ~ Planning ~ Demographics ~ Interview with Kathy Smith, Ancaster Fair

THE INSIDE SCOOP presents Kathy Smith, Manager

Ancaster Agricultural Society and Ancaster Fairgrounds

 

The Fair – “The Fair is a great community to volunteer in.” …“The Ancaster Fair is all about “Fabulous Family Fun!”

 

 

Our interview continues …

What do you attribute the success of Ancaster Agricultural Society?

Success ~ “The success of the Ancaster Agricultural Society can really be attributed to the dedication of the volunteers.  When the society decided to relocate it was a committee of volunteers that took this task on, through their leadership we have a beautiful new grounds that generations of families will get to enjoy.  It is also the volunteers that make the fair happen.  With over 35 committees and approx. 400 volunteers it takes a lot of time to plan and organize the fair so that there is something for all interests to see and participate in when visiting the fair”.

What is your demographic makeup of attendees?

Demographic Makeup ~ “The Ancaster Fair is all about “Fabulous Family Fun!”  We have families with young children, teenagers or even adult children coming back for a family reunion at the fair.  We have very young who attend to participate in the Baby show and older people who attend to compete in the many competitions.  While it may be a cliché to say that we have something for everyone we do try to attract people from diverse backgrounds and at every age level”. 

How far in advance do you “plan”?

Planning ~ “Planning for the Ancaster Fair begins the weekend of the previous fair.  Committee chairs take note of what works well and what needs to be done better for the next year.   About a week after the fair we have a meeting to “debrief” on the successes of the fair.  Organizing really gets in gear in the New Year when committees get their budget requests in and have committee meetings to make definite plans for that year’s fair.  Of course changes can occur right up to opening of the fair as no plan is completely guaranteed to work”.

Stay tuned for more with Kathy Smith, Manager of the Ancaster Agricultural Society and Ancaster Fairgrounds and don’t forget to check out their website at http://www.ancasteragriculturalsociety.ca/. … Next SCOOP: Ancaster Fairground Facilities, Keeping things Fresh!