By Adam Frisk
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
While many small-town agricultural fairs across Ontario are facing declines, the Haliburton County Fair is proving to beunstoppable, thanks to the backbone of the community.
On Saturday (June 13), the Minden fairgrounds will be a bustling place with agricultural traditions and brand-new attractions designed to bring out the kid in everyone. Gates open early at 8:30 a.m. for the light horse show, kicking off a jam packed day of community fun.
“We’re getting off to an early start on Saturday,” Minden Agricultural Society’s Cathy Fisher told The Highlander.
Organizers have added several fresh features to the lineup this year to keep the momentum growing, including a brand-new Lego-themed area featuring a massive, life sized Lego chair where families can stop to get their picture taken.
The fairgrounds will also have classic staples like face painting, a chainsaw artist, bouncy castles, and the “zoo to you” animal exhibit inside the curling club building. A major highlight is the 3 p.m. charity auction, featuring high-value items entirely donated by local businesses, like a load of logs, road crush, and wooden carvings.
Even Smokey Bear is scheduled to make a special appearance, provided the area fire hazard levels remain safe on Saturday. Fisher said that this year’s preparation wasn’t without its logistical hurdles when a sudden health issue left the fair short staffed at the admission gates. That’s when Minden’s local network didn’t hesitate, with the Rotary Club immediately stepping up to the plate, volunteering to man the gates and keep the lines moving.
“I can’t say enough about our sponsors, volunteers, and our community. Fairs everywhere are in trouble, and many are thinking of disbanding,” Fisher said. “I am so proud that our little fair is coming back and getting bigger every single year. We couldn’t put this on without everyone stepping up to the plate.”
Admission to the fairgrounds is $10 for adults and $5 for children aged five and older.
Paddling Film Festival
Also happening on Saturday is the 2026 Paddling Film Festival at the Northern Lights Performing Arts Pavilion. The event features a lineup of award-winning adventure films that capture the unique paddling lifestyle. Doors open at 6 p.m., with the screening kicking off at 6:30 p.m.
All proceeds will directly fund outdoor programs for local youth in the Haliburton and Minden areas to help foster a lifelong passion for nature and water sports. There will be raffle prizes and light refreshments by donation from the Haliburton Muskoka Kawartha Children’s Water Festival. Tickets are available for $20.
