Brome Fair Contributes Substantially To The Local Economy

August 20th 2009

Results of the study conducted by Enigma Research confirm what the directors of the Brome County Agricultural Society already suspected, that the annual event plays a major role in the local economy,

Here are some highlights of the study:

Economic impact of Brome Fair estimated at $1M
• Impact derived from event operations and spending by non-locals
• Includes direct, indirect, and induced spending

Considerable local employment supported by event
• Event supports equivalent of 12 full-year jobs in region
• Most employment in arts, hospitality, and retail sectors

Fair drives regional tourism
• Event attracted over 9,600 non-local fairgoers
• 73% likely to return for vacation, based on experience at Brome Fair

Local residents spent $600,000 related to event
• While not considered economic impact, demonstrates tremendous local support
• Brome Fair influences time and location of local entertainment spending

Agriculture and farming heritage important to attendees
• Most fairgoers feel it is important to learn about agriculture and food
• 70% believe educational content enhances visit to the fair

The Enigma study was conducted with the financial support of the Canadian Association of Fairs and Exhibitions and the Cowansville Chamber of Commerce.

Preparations are almost complete for the 153 edition of Brome Fair. The event will be held from September 4th to the 7th.

We are expecting a slight increase in registrations for the cattle and dairy entries this year, meaning that the barns will be full for our visitors.

The famous horse pull is back again this year on Friday evening. The A.S.T.T.Q. will be holding a truck pull on Saturday evening. The big parade will be at 1:00pm Sunday.

Montreal born Jonas will be hitting the stage on Sunday night, 8:00pm to handle the musical entertainment.

A new event this year is added to the Monday afternoon schedule. The Agri-Man challenge will test the agricultural abilities of team members competing for their favorite charities. Tractors, hay bails and various agricultural products will make for a funny and challenging mix.

Visit www.bromefair.com for a complete schedule of the Fair.

All shows are included in the price of admission. Midway rides are also included.