The seventh annual Cochrane Fair is kicking off this Friday afternoon (August 16), providing a weekend of entertainment for all.

Each year, thousands of people from Cochrane and beyond head to the Cochrane Ag Society Park to take part in activities that appease both the agricultural and urban lover. 

Leslie Hunt, Chairperson for the Cochrane Fair Committee, says this weekend's fair is once again loaded up with activities that every single age group will enjoy. "We have a lot going on this year, and we are busy, busy, busy in every aspect of the fair. From the outdoor arena to the marketplace, we have a Farm Alley that is increasing this year, we also have a beer gardens tent with more happening. As well we have a motorcycle stunt show, axe throwing, the Bearspaw Bench Show, the Midway....you name we've got it this year."

Coming up with new attractions year after year is certainly a group effort, shares Hunt, with planning for the following year commencing almost immediately after this one wraps up. "We have a wonderful group of people working with us, and we start analyzing what worked, what didn't work, what we might consider bringing in next year, and then we let that sit and percolate in everyone's heads for a bit. There is also a wonderful convention for all the Ag Societies that we try to get to every year, and at that, we meet a bunch of wonderful entertainers and some we book right then and there."

Hoping Mother Nature is cooperative, the Cochrane Fair has been known to draw in well over ten thousand people in past years over its three-day duration, and Hunt is looking forward to another record year.  "I am thinking and hoping the weather is going to be good this year, and no smoke."

Superdogs, mini chuckwagon races, mutton bustin', and two special event evenings this year will make the Cochrane Fair an attraction you won't want to miss. Canadain Wrestling Elite is bringing professional wrestling to the grounds for the first time on Friday night while the 19th annual Cochrane Classic Bull Riding showcases 30 of the toughest bulls and best riders from all over the world on Saturday. 

When it comes to the 'need-to-knows' for the weekend, Hunt points out a couple of things attendees should take note of. Dogs are welcome at the grounds as long as they are leashed and under control, the special evening events require a separate entrance ticket and bring along patience as numerous volunteers make this the weekend possible for all.

For more information about the Cochrane Fair and how to get your tickets ahead of time, go HERE.

The gates to the Cochrane Fair open at 4 p.m. on Friday and wrap up at 5 in the afternoon Sunday.