I have a "never-fail" formula that I apply to pretty much all outings and events I attend:  Purchase all tickets in advance (where possible) and arrive early to avoid the masses.  For decades my time spent at the Markham Fair has been truly terrific and I think it is in part due to my formula!

We arrived at the fair Friday afternoon, right after school, with pre-purchased wrist-bands from Shoppers Drug Mart (remember the formula?).  It's cheaper to get them there versus buying them at the gate (sorry, I forgot to mention that in my previous "Fair" post). 

 

In the past, I would buy "ride-all-day" wrist bands for the boys and purchase a handful of tickets for me to go on a few of my favourites.  This year I splurged and bought a wrist band for me too!  Renée can't even look at a carousel without feeling whoozy so she takes a few pictures then turns her head.

 

It was cool, sunny and no rain!  The midway was practically empty so we didn't have to line up for anything!  Success!  I spent a lot of time on the Scrambler, the Tilt-a-Whirl and the Bumper Cars.  This year, the boys were very interested in the antique farm equipment powered by old tractors, simple motors and windmills.  Their favourite was the automated butter churner powered by a 15 foot old windmill!

 

Old MacDonald's Farm is still a big hit.  There's always a new batch of chicks to hold and lots of animals to pet.  We have to race through the craft buildings because the kids just want to get back to the midway.  We didn't stay for the Truck and Tractor Pull, the kids were running out of steam.  I wanted to go back Saturday night for Monster Truck Madness but I ended up working all day and was too tired.  Such is the life of a Realtor.

 

If you are planning on attending the fair, bring along hats and gloves - it can get a little chilly walking around.  And, remember the "never-fail" formula and you are guaranteed a great time!