By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

The 167th Comber Fair drew large crowds as families from Lakeshore and surrounding communities took in one of Ontario’s longest‑running agricultural traditions. The three‑day event opened Friday morning and wrapped up Sunday afternoon, continuing the momentum of last year’s highly successful 166th edition.

Organizers reported strong attendance and said community support remained high throughout the fair. A large team of volunteers helped run the event, contributing to what organizers described as one of the fair’s most successful years. Fair president Ron Chambers said the program offered a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages, building on the popularity of events introduced in previous years.

Saturday featured Figure 8 races, a dog show, wrestling, children’s games, Gellyball and live entertainment. An Elvis tribute act performed on the main stage that night, while visitors moved through the Beer Garden, midway and vendor area. The fair also included a parade, car show, antique farm equipment contest, fireworks and the ever‑popular demolition derby—an attraction Chambers said continues to be a highlight for thousands of attendees.

Many of the new additions first introduced during the 166th fair, such as the escape room and expanded stage entertainment, remained crowd favourites.

“The heat didn’t stop the crowds from coming out,” said Grace Pearson, first vice‑president of the Comber Fair, reflecting on the strong turnout and enthusiasm seen again this year.

“It was wonderful to see so many new and familiar faces—some even travelled from Toronto just to take part.”

The fair also continued its tradition of supporting youth in agriculture. Last year, eight $2,000 bursaries were awarded to students pursuing post‑secondary studies in agriculture, and organizers say the commitment to youth programming remains a core part of the fair’s mission.

Longtime attendee Sarah McLean of Essex County said the fair remains a highlight of her summer.

“Comber Fair has a charm you don’t find anywhere else,” she said. “It brings everyone together—families, farmers, kids—and every year there’s something new to enjoy.”

First‑time visitor Daniel Rathi, who attended with his family from Windsor, said he was impressed by the variety of activities.

“We were surprised by how much there was to do,” he said. “The kids loved the animals and the fireworks. We’re already planning to come back next year.”

Among the crowd was Ahmed Al‑Khaldi, who recently moved to the Tilbury area with his family. He said the fair made him feel welcomed into the community.

“We’ve only been here a short time, but the Comber Fair made us feel right at home,” he said.

“The fireworks were incredible—my kids couldn’t stop talking about them. It was a beautiful way to experience our new community.”

Chambers said organizers spent the past year making improvements to the fairgrounds to enhance the experience for attendees. Crews updated and cleaned several areas of the site to ensure it was ready for future events.

Seeing thousands of people come through the gates was meaningful for the organizing committee, he added, noting how residents from surrounding areas continue to treat the fair as a family tradition.

The Comber Agricultural Society once again recognized outstanding community contributions by presenting Volunteers of the Year awards and bursaries. Lakeshore Mayor Tracey Bailey, who attended alongside members of council, praised the fair’s milestone and the dedication behind it.

“Celebrating their 167th anniversary! On behalf of council and residents of Lakeshore, I would like to congratulate the Comber Fair Board on this remarkable milestone,” she said.

“Volunteers—the people who make this event possible—help nurture our need for community spirit and connection with others. The impact of their countless hours of volunteerism is immeasurable.”

Chambers and the organizing committee extended their thanks to all volunteers who helped make the event possible.

“Great attendance, great weather—the derby was the highlight of the whole weekend,” Chambers said. “This was one of the best fairs ever.”