WHERE FRIENDS MEET Another look inside the 2024 Paris Fair!

By Casandra Turnbull

The Paris Fair is under a week away. The familiar sights and sounds will fill the fairgrounds from August 29-September 2 but eager fairgoers can get in a day earlier with the midway open on Wednesday, August 28th from 6 pm to 11 pm (It’s also toonie ticket night)

All the entertainment starts with the opening ceremonies on Thursday, August 29th . As we mentioned last week, the RCMP Musical Ride is bringing its troop of riders to the Fairgrounds for two performances. The first one on opening night in front of the main grandstands. Your admission to the fair gets you into the RCMP Musical Ride so be sure to check it out because this is a performance you must see Thirtytwo riders, all police officers, and their horses perform intricate formations and drills set to music. The show typically lasts about 30 minutes and is packed with movements that demand the utmost control, timing, and coordination.

The RCMP Musical Ride, a Canadian icon, travels to around 50 communities each year and is a symbol of tradition, honour, and pride among its riders It helps support recruiting efforts and promoting the RCMP’s image in Canada.

The RCMP Musical Ride was part of the 2016 Paris Fair and its popular performance helped attendance soar to break Paris Fair records, says Amy Warner, Paris Agricultural Society General Manager

Warner’s predecessor Cheryl Muir invited the RCMP Musical Ride to the 2023 fair, but the tour didn’t hit Ontario last year, explains Warner. She was thrilled when the RCMP reached out to perform at this year’s fair, noting everyone was willing to welcome them back with open arms. The show starts at 7:15 pm following the opening ceremony. Their second performance takes place at 2 pm on Friday, August 30th at the same location

Speaking of record-breaking performances, this year’s country concert line up on Saturday and Sunday evening is sure to draw thousands of fans.

“We try to find performers with a universal appeal that will bring in all ages,” explains Warner. “Jade Eagleson and Brett Kissel are most certainly universally appreciated!”