There is so much going on during The Fair at the PNE on now through Sept. 3, it's hard to cover everything so I'll forgo the obvious rides and concerts and instead offer information on displays and attractions taking place across the fairgrounds.
Celebration Plaza
Celebration Plaza, which is adjacent to the red livestock barns off Miller Drive, is the location for the seventh annual Sand Sculpture Competition. Sculptors from across the province completed their creations this past Sunday, giving fair-goers an opportunity to vote for their favourites. Spectators have an opportunity to win $100 by texting to vote right at the site. The PNE international competition is a qualifying event for the 2013 World Championship Sand Sculpture Competition.
Also taking place at Celebration Plaza is the second annual Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»Rib Festival sponsored by Jack FM featuring top champion barbecue pit masters from B.C., Alberta and Ontario. Five national teams, including an all-women's effort, will feature some of the best award winning barbecue you can eat. I was invited to a media tour of the inaugural event last year and had a chance to sample barbecued ribs, brisket and pulled pork made by these champion pit masters. Vote for your favourite for a chance to win $100.
After chowing down on some of the best barbecue in town, check out the Container Art exhibit sponsored by Port Metro Vancouver, also located on the plaza.
The theme of this year's exhibit is the port's three pillars-economy, environment and community. Container artists interpreted their relationship to the port through one or more of those themes. Container art is becoming an increasingly popular medium and the PNE's exhibit highlights some of the best of the Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»art scene.
FESTIVAL SQUARE
Taking place at the PNE's Festival Square located on the west side of the fair this year is the interactive Art Cars exhibit, which allows you to embrace your inner artist while performing an act you'd typically get arrested for-painting one of the cars set up around the square.
MILLER DRIVE
Your children will love the whimsical playhouses built by the top forestry companies in B.C. in partnership with some of the province's most talented and innovative architectural firms and builders. The eight made-in-B.C. playhouses will be on display on Miller Drive every day during the fair before being placed with children's organizations across B.C. Proceeds from their sale benefit Habitat for Humanity Canada. Vote for your favourite playhouse for a chance to win $100.
PNE PRIZE HOME
Meanwhile, the PNE Prize Home is located next to the Agradome-for now.
Once the lucky winner is announced on the last day of the fair, the home will be relocated to Sun Peaks Resort in the Interior of B.C. The home's interior was designed by Jillian Harris of Extreme Makeover Home Edition, but I like to think of her as the Bachelorette smart enough to dump Ed Swiderski before it was too late. Tours of the show home take place between 11 a.m. and 10 p.m.
KIDS PLAYCE
Families who want to take a break from the crowds can drop into Kids Playce, designed specifically for the little ones. Located near the midway on the east side of the fairgrounds, Kids Playce provides the perfect setting for families looking to spend some activity time in a clean, safe and kid-friendly environment. A picnic area and special kids rides make this an ideal spot for families.
For a complete schedule of events, visit pne.ca/thefair.
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