It was a beautiful September weekend in the capital as the annual Carp Fair returned for its 163rd year, bringing a proper send off to this year’s festival season. The four-day family friendly event at the Carp Fairgrounds is billed as the Best Little Fair in Canada, drawing in thousands daily. This year’s theme was “the best memories are made at the fair” – something families continue to create year after year. “It’s a big year for us because it’s been a long time and we have enjoyed every minute of it and now we really get to see it in all of its glory. We want to share that opportunity with the people of Ottawa,” said Scott Moore, president of Agriculture at the Carp Fair. The fair is a family tradition for dad Amith Horra and his daughter Aaliyah. “It’s a full circle moment. I’ve been coming here since I was a child and now, I’m able to bring my daughter,” said Amith. “This is our 11th year together.” He’s been attending the fair with Aaliyah since she was young. They’ve attended three out of the four days of the fair this year. “I love the Carp Fair so much. I love playing the games and going on the rides,” said Aaliyah. Aaliyah says she started going on the kids’ rides and now can go on the bigger rides. “I just enjoy it so much. The Carp Fair is an extraordinary place to have fun with family and friends and it’s just really fun time,” said Aaliyah. Plenty of entertainment was available for all ages including live performances, a midway with rides and games, agricultural showcases, homecraft exhibits, a demolition derby and more than 50 different food vendors. “We love the Carp Fair. We come every year. We spend the whole weekend here and it’s very special to make memories,” said attendee Amy Cullen. The fair wrapped up Sunday.
