There's many different aspects of the Western Fair Association. There's a rink, racetracks, casino, farmers market, trade shows and assorted merchant events, plus of course the fair.
I very much enjoy all of the events there. I go to the farmers market almost every Saturday, and there's excellent selection and (usually) good prices.
The fair is always a great time. I've gone every year since I was a kid (except when I moved to Vancouver for awhile) and it never disappoints. I look forward to it every year.
The trade shows and sales are interesting, although there's a lot of overlap between some of them - you'll see the same booths/companies over and over.
I'd love to give WFA 5 stars, I really would. It's so much fun and entertainment right in my neighbourhood. However, I've become extremely frustrated with how money-hungry they've become. They're charging more and more for their events and cutting out the freebies/deals. The trade shows should not have a cover charge - hundreds of merchants are paying hundreds (and even thousands) of dollars to come target potential clients, and WFA is charging those same potential clients $10+ dollars just to get in the door.
My brother had a booth at one of the recent trade shows and I asked him if he had any free passes so I could come check it out. He said the WFA had given him several $1 off coupons. That's just insulting.
5 stars for fun, 0 stars for management. read more