Mirror holds ol’ time county fair

 

Dr. Von Houligan’s sword juggling was one of the many activities  at Mirror’s ol’fashioned fun day on May 20.  ECA Review/L. Joy

 

 

 

 

 

 
People are growing tired of the artificial online world and want to reconnect with human beings.
This was evident as the quaint Hamlet of Mirror in Lacombe County, which has less than 500 residents, drew about 700 people from across Central Alberta to enjoy face-to-face fun.
Mirror Day festivities, May 20, were reminiscent of an ol’ time county fair from days gone by.
“That’s what people are looking for, simple, good, old-fashioned fun,” said Lacombe County Deputy Reeve Brenda Knight who helped organize the event.
“People want to see live entertainment, they want human beings again. We are becoming isolated and these events provide people a place to unplug and get back in touch with humans.”
The day kicked off with the Mirror Fireman’s pancake breakfast with a record number attending.
“They ran out of food,” said Deputy Reeve Knight. “They purchased the same amount of food as they always had.”
A parade with a variety of participants delighted old and young who lined the streets in anticipation for the spectacle. The aroma of fresh popped popcorn and cotton candy permeated the warm spring air. Vintage hot rods revved their motors and blasted deafening horns.
After the parade Dr. Von Houligan’s Carnival of Calamities enchanted the crowd with his sword juggling and other circus acts. The travelling act revives the old circus days of magic and performances from juggling to fire breathing and balloon animals.
“Dr. Von Houligan’s Carnival was such fun for kids, the young and old alike,” said Deputy Reeve Knight.
The Show and Shine had 39 entries from across Alberta.
Numerous area dignitaries participated in the parade, including: Lacombe-Ponoka MLA Ron Orr, and mayors and/or councillors from Bashaw, Alix, Clive and Beiseker.
The Mirror and District Museum opened for the day, as well as the Mirror Legion holding its annual meat draw and the Alliance Church hosting a hot-dog lunch.
There was a scavenger hunt, a barbecue supper in the evening and a family dance with everyone from babies to seniors attending. Fireworks were in the evening.
The event was completely run and hosted by volunteers.
“It’s worth noting that it was all volunteer driven,” said Deputy Reeve Knight. “The amount of volunteers is amazing.”
Chris Muise came from Red Deer to take in the fair with her daughter and grandchildren.
“I think it’s great. Small town fairs are the best,” she said.
Likewise, Deputy Reeve Knight agreed.
“These events are very important. They bring visitors to town. It brings the community together and provides an opportunity to showcase the community to visitors.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lisa Joy
ECA Review reporter