one by one®: Ilderton Agricultural Society
As the population around Ilderton, Ontario, continues to grow, the Ilderton Agricultural Society realized that not everyone who attends the annual fall fair is knowledgeable about agriculture. Last year was the third year it offered the Farm Barn exhibit to introduce people of all ages to agriculture. To attract newcomers, it used a one by one grant to purchase temporary tattoo giveaways.
“We had about 12,500 people attend [last] year’s fair, including a lot of families,” said Barbara Johnson, one of the directors of the fair. “The tattoos were a big hit with the kids and even some adults. Grandparents in particular took some to give to their grandkids.”
Tattoo giveaways showed farm animals that were on display
The Farm Barn, sponsored by Bloomers Family Farm, is a popular attraction at the fair because it features live animals and many interactive options. Last year’s animals on display included a beef cow and calf, two dairy heifers, a donkey, pony, sheep and lamb. The Grain Farmers of Ontario brought their Discovery Zone Trailer so kids could play in corn with tractor figurines they provided. Egg Farmers of Ontario also had a booth, and the Middlesex Dairy Producers offered a fiberglass cow that kids (or adults!) could “milk.” In addition to the tattoo giveaways that showed cute animals, like a pony and lamb, the exhibit also offered recipes, kids’ activities and informational brochures.
Running for more than 160 years and counting
While the Ilderton Agricultural Society started the Farm Barn just a few years ago, it has been running the annual fair since 1851. The fair is by far its largest event, but it also hosts other gatherings, like a beef barbecue, horse shows, dairy show, Christmas parade and more to promote agriculture and enrich the lives of community members.
“The fair is always evolving, which is why it’s continued to be successful for so many years,” said Christina Dube, one of the junior directors of the fair. “We’ll continue to evolve the Farm Barn, too, as we get feedback or new ideas.”
A note from Cheryl
It’s great to hear that groups like the Ilderton Agricultural Society offer many events and creative items, like tattoo giveaways, to promote agriculture and help people understand where food and many other products come from. We’re glad to have played a part in that mission. If you’re interested in a one by one grant, visit onebyone.4imprint.ca.