What's green, long and has wheels? A zucchini race.
The race is one of main attractions at the Brackendale Fall Fair, fair organizer Thor Froslev said. Each participant is handed a zucchini to transform into a speed machine, before it is raced down a wooden plank. When a friend first approached Froslev with the idea, Froslev said he wasn't sure it would fly. But back by demand, once again the zucchini race will be at the 17th annual Brackendale Fall Fair on Saturday, Sept. 10.
"It is so busy and so popular," Froslev said throwing up his hands.
The zucchini race won't be the only activity spread out on the green lawn at the Brackendale Farmers Institute Park. There will also be approximately 70 vendors, displaying a huge variety of goods and services. If you feel the urge, you could come to the fair, get a haircut, do your grocery shopping and then relax with a massage, Froslev noted.
There will be a hayride, live music, food, mini golf and competitions galore.
"There are competitions for best honey, wine, largest sunflower," Froslev said, before continuing down an unending list of categories - farm animals, baking, garden produce.
Every year the event has grown. In 2009, approximately 2,700 people came out for the fun. Last year, that figure jumped by 500 visitors to 3,200. More than apple pie taste tests, the fair is a way for the community to show its support and appreciation of the Brackendale Farmers Institute Park, Froslev said.
In 1957, longtime residents and the local farmers institute set aside the 50 acres of land as park. Since then, a small area was cleared for the fair and devoted residents maintain the overall park, Froslev said. However, the parcel of Crown land is under constant threat of development, he noted.
"We want everybody to go and explore the park," Froslev said.
To enter your special jam or giant sunflower, pick up an exhibit entry tag and category list at the Brackendale General Store or Squamish Savings. The category list is also available at www.BrackendaleFallFair.ca.
Fair organizers are asking people to leave their dogs at home because of the livestock that will be at the fair. Parking will be available at Don Ross Secondary School. The fair will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For further information call (604) 898-3333.
