By: Matt Weingarden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
The 166th annual Comber Fair is being hailed as a great success by organizers, with strong attendance and enthusiastic community support throughout the weekend.
A large number of volunteers helped make the event possible, contributing to another memorable year for one of Ontario’s longest-running agricultural fairs. From the parade to the demolition derby, thousands of visitors took in the festivities.
“The heat didn’t stop the crowds from coming out to celebrate the 166th Comber Fair,” said Grace Pearson, first vice-president of the Comber Fair, speaking to the Tilbury Times Reporter.
“We had great attendance for our new events throughout the weekend, including figure-eight racing, wrestling, an escape room and stage entertainment. It was wonderful to see so many new and familiar faces—some even travelled from Toronto just to take part, including in the pie-eating contest. We also awarded eight $2,000 bursaries to students pursuing post-secondary studies in agriculture.”
Among the crowd was longtime attendee Mark Dupuis of Essex County, who said the fair continues to be a highlight of his summer. “There’s something special about the Comber Fair,” he said.
“It brings everyone together—families, farmers, kids—and there’s always something new to enjoy.”
The three-day event featured a parade, car show, antique farm equipment contest, dog show, live entertainment, fireworks, a beer garden and the ever-popular demolition derby.
“We’re so excited to see thousands come through. This was one of the best fairs ever,” said Ron Chambers, president and event organizer. Chambers was busy throughout the weekend assisting vendors, volunteers and visitors to ensure the fair ran smoothly.
“Great attendance, great weather—the derby was the highlight of the whole weekend,” he said. “And the baby show was over the top with more than 50 participants. The car show and the 4-H Club put on a fantastic event. We had another successful parade as well.”
The Comber Agricultural Society recognized outstanding community contributions by presenting the Volunteers of the Year awards and the 2025 Comber Fair Bursary.
“Celebrating their 166th anniversary! On behalf of council and residents of Lakeshore, I would like to congratulate the Comber Fair Board on this remarkable milestone,” said Lakeshore Mayor Tracey Bailey, who attended the fair alongside members of council.
“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.”
First-time visitor Priya Singh, who attended with her family from Windsor, said she was impressed by the variety of activities. “We didn’t expect so much to do,” she said. “The kids loved the animals and the fireworks. We’ll definitely be back next year.”
Chambers and the organizing committee extended their thanks to all volunteers who helped make the event a success.
“It seems like the community is really embracing these types of events,” said Bailey. “The energy throughout was fantastic—a true hometown feel.”
