The public is invited to a special party celebrating the Ladysmith Agricultural Hall’s 100th anniversary on Sept. 24, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The opening ceremonies, including the Young Wolves dance group and cake cutting, will be at 11 a.m., followed by an afternoon of fun activities.
The Aggie Hall 100 Planning Committee has been meeting all year to organize a day of celebration to mark the 100th anniversary of this most iconic Ladysmith landmark.
“We will unveil Legacy Story Panels on the walkway perimeter outside the hall that tells its story, and host an all-day open house with a Retro Agricultural Fall Fair Display. Everyone is invited to participate in the Retro Fall Fair,” says Lesley Moore, event co-ordinator. “We will be using categories from 1922 — everything from fruits to flowers, knitting to embroidery, squashes to watercolours and models. Did you grow something amazing in your garden? Try your hand at a new craft or art form. There will be tables for you to show off your creations and receive a memento for your participation.
“As well as the Retro Fall Fair, there will be a children’s activity tent, an exhibit of artifacts and memorabilia, a running slide show, a Cadet demonstration, the fifties and sixties dance demonstration, refreshments and more.”
With the generous support of Canadian Heritage, the Town of Ladysmith, the Ladysmith Historical Society, the Ladysmith Air Cadets and community contributions, this will be a fun, family day, free of charge for the entire community.
The hall was built in 1922, providing the community with a sense of identity and recreation. The hall has hosted agricultural fairs, community dances and legendary rockers, such as Roy Orbison and Jerry Lee Lewis. Today, the hall is just as vibrant although its uses have changed somewhat through the years. This is the Ladysmith Air Cadet Squadron’s home and a meeting place for LaFF and headquarters for most important community events.
To participate in the Retro Fall Fair or for more information, contact Lesley Moore at 250-826-3228 or leave a message at the Ladysmith Museum at 250-245-0423.