Still a darn good deal

Although some folks might think it’s double trouble when it comes to the price of admission, we take great pride in putting out the word: the Hants County Exhibition’s second weekend is ramped up and ready to go.

Poor weather Saturday did little to deter people from turning out to support one of Hants County’s landmark attractions, and the brilliant sunshine Sunday more than made up for the damp conditions of the previous day.

Still, it’s impossible to satisfy everyone and if one complaint persisted last weekend, it involved the $10 price of admission for anyone 13 years of age and over.

A family of four with kids that age or older, for instance, was tagged $40 just to get in the door. A number of people expressed misgivings last weekend about that and while we sympathize, it’s time for a little tough love. Get over it.

The Hants County Exhibition was established in 1765 and it’s the oldest agricultural fair in North America. It’s the premiere showcase for dozens of people associated with 4-H, hunter/jumper equestrian endeavour, animal husbandry and anyone keen to display award-winning efforts in the garden.

It offers colour and flair, kiosks aplenty, a food court, carnival amusements, rides for the young and young-at-heart, music and exceptional diversion from the numbing rattle and hum of nine-to-five.

Recent Nova Scotia Country Music Hall of Fame inductee fiddler Keith Ross played live Friday night; international recording star Bruce Guthro offered two shows Saturday; Les Girls from Prince Edward Island received a standing ovation Sunday afternoon for their performance.

In addition, fans can look forward to master hypnotist Ian Stewart (Sept. 21 at 8 p.m.), Mr. Lahey and Randy from the Trailer Park Boys (4 and 8 p.m. Sept. 22) and a bevy of smokin’ hot bands 1 p.m. Sunday when Rock at the Ex hits the Vaughan’s Market/Petro-Canada stage.

Where else in the province can you get this kind of entertainment for a sawbuck? Not to mention the myriad horse shows that happen all day at the Ex, nor the truck and tractor pull Saturday afternoon (1:30 p.m.) or the demolition derby Sunday (also 1:30 p.m.).

Check out the midway, too, which positively bristles with activity. Who could resist a game of chance, a shot at the dunk tank and then a wild ride on The Zipper?

Granted, a $10 entry fee seems like a lot, but there’s no denying the return. It all depends on the level of personal investment in the events themselves and how long you stay. Be aware, as well, that other such events without as storied a history as the Hants County Exhibition charge similarly.

The Annapolis Valley Ex, for instance, has a general admission fee of $7 Monday to Thursday, $7.50 Friday and $8.50 Saturday. Kids 12-and-under are free.

We hesitate to look elsewhere to compare further the cost of a trip to Halifax, a drive to the South Shore or a junket down the Valley. Fact is, it all costs, in one way or another, either through time, gas, meals and accommodations.

An admission fee anywhere covers infrastructure, entertainment, staff and bottom line. Don’t bemoan the expense; it’s still a pretty darn good deal. Enjoy.