'Hidden gems' showcased at Laird Fair (12 photos)

Proudly presented by the North Shore Agricultural Society, the 2015 Laird Fair kicked off Friday night at the Laird Fairgrounds on Lake George Road.

As Nobody Special played the Budweiser Bandstand - we're not being rude, that's actually the band's name - visitors enjoyed pony rides, a variety of horse competitions, and food and refreshments while others were busy registering for the weekend's upcoming events.

Amanda Holmberg, treasurer of the North Shore Agricultural Society, told SooToday that the Laird Fair was first hosted in the 1880s.

Through the decades, the event suffered from participation and economic setbacks which put the fair on pause for a number of years.

But Holmberg was happy to report that the community gathering has now run consecutively for more than 20 years, showcasing the region's 'hidden gems'.

"A lot of people don't realize how many businesses there are in the area, and it's really fun to see the passion they have for their farm-to-fork lifestyle," she said.

"Hearing the stories from the farmers in the area, that's how traditions get passed down. And a lot of younger people are really getting back into farming in this tea, which is great."

The Laird Fair continues Saturday and Sunday with events and activities that include magic shows, bird showmanship competitions hosted by the Youth Algoma Poultry Association, pet shows, crafts and activities, and horse and rider competitions.

The popular tractor pull competition begins Saturday at 11 a.m., and the teddy bear parade takes place at noon on Sunday.

Performing on the Budweiser Bandstand are E-Zee Country, Obsession, Cloud Bandits, and ACR.

Admission to the fair is $5 per day and includes a free ride home for those who require it.

Buses will pick visitors up at the Laird Fairgrounds with drop offs scheduled on Lake Huron Street in Desbarats, Church Street in Echo Bay, Shingwauk Street in Garden River First Nation, and at the Husky East Restaurant in Sault Ste. Marie.

For full fair details, please click here.