The Fair at the PNE, the summer’s final big splash, will get underway tomorrow. All the fun and entertainment that PNE fans have come to love will return for the 17-day fair.
Debuting at the PNE’s 102nd annual season is Princess Jubilation, a high-energy stage show that celebrates Princess Power through live dance numbers and colourful characters.
I was invited to preview the show, along with one-of-a-kind playhouses made possible by the teaming of talented architects and top forestry companies in BC.
The playhouses will be on display at the fair, later to be send throughout the province and enjoyed by BC children. Canfor’s Playhouse Challenge was created to benefit Habitat for Humanity Canada locations throughout BC; each house is a collaborative project showcasing creativity in design and functionality.
[Western Forest Products: The Whirl House]
I particularly liked Western Forest Products’ The Whirl House, and hope to catch it at the right time of the day when the sun will surely peek through the colourful wooden slats following the curvy shape of the house.
BCIT students have also built a playhouse for the challenge, and will compete against professional architects and builders to create a fan-favourite playhouse. According to BCIT President Don Wright, “It’s an incredible opportunity for our students, and the benefits of the project will reach so many children and families across the province.”
[Ainsworth’s Pirate Ship House]
Once the fair is over, playhouses will be sold to pre-registered corporate buyers for donation to BC children’s charity organizations while funds raised will go to Habitat for Humanity to build decent, affordable housing for hard-working families in BC.
In addition to Princess Jubilation and the all-new WestJet Family Fun Series, Star Trek: The Exhibition makes it return, one of the most sought-after exhibits in the world. Don’t forget the Summer Night Concert Series featuring everyone from Olivia Newton-John to Rick Springfield. Teen sensations Victoria Duffield and Shawn Desman will highlight the WestJet Family Fun Series daily at 2 pm.
PNE’s CEO Michael McDaniel discussed the fair’s operations and an increased family-friendly PNE this year. For the second year straight, the PNE will offer kids under 13 free admission to the Fair.
The Fair At the PNE runs from August 18 to September 3. Founded in 1910, the PNE operates from a 114-acre site at Hastings Park, a multi-facility venue that hosts a variety of hockey, amateur sporting, music, community, social, cultural and commercial events throughout the year.