The Middleton Country Fair. Who, What, When & Where?

November 30th, 2010 |

Tasmania: Queen of Events. So what’s the Middleton Country Fair then? We all know about the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. And Hobart’s waterfront will be buzzing with people for the end of year Taste Festival. But do you know about this gorgeous little event held each February in The Channel region south of the capital?

Let’s talk about the…

Middleton Country Fair

A 45 minute drive from Hobart, boasting views of the picturesque D’entrecasteaux Channel and Bruny Island, will lead you to Middleton. Country Fair Scarecrow Competition entrants are another feature of the trip. Dressed in all manner of amusing and elaborate costumes, the scarecrows make for an entertaining journey. And you might be lucky enough to see some of the Sydney to Hobart boats sailing in The Channel.

Auch sails in The D'entrecasteaux Channel near Middleton

Our photos from the last Middleton Country Fair show some of the variety of activities in Tasmania outside the major events calendar.

Entertainment & Activities in Tasmania

No one can complain about variety. Get a load of this running sheet…

Marionette Theatre puppets impersonating Dolly Parton and Michael Jackson
Local swamp blues/rock duo The Middletones
Ethiopian dancers in traditional costume
A gentleman playing – wait for it – the washboard. In white gloves!!

Middleton Country Fair - music and entertainment

Middleton Country Fair Animals

Always a favourite with the kids, the farmyard at the Middleton Country Fair certainly won’t disappoint. I’m a country girl myself, but I was still enthralled with the sheep dogs and chickens. Wasn’t such a big wrap for the reptiles, especially the snakes! But judging by the big crowd, plenty thought they were pretty impressive.

The fabulous animal section at the Middleton Country Fair

Market Stalls

With over 80 stalls and trade displays, promotion of local business is clearly on the agenda of the Middleton Country Fair organisers. Crafts and food and plants – all the usual market suspects. I loved the golliwogs (is that even a politically correct term these days?) and the Butterflies of Glaziers Bay.

Promoting local business at the Middleton Country Fair

Motor Vehicles

Vintage cars, rally cars, fire trucks and tractors. All a kid’s dream come true really. Interspersed with pony rides, lucky dips and fishing games – what more could you want for a day of family activities in Tasmania?

Middleton Country Fair - Vehicle Displays

Vehicles old, new and unique, all at the Middleton Country Fair

Flowers, Fruits and Vegetables

Showing off the green thumbs of The Channel, the display of fresh produce in the hall is magnificent. Looks very colourful; some of it good enough to eat!

Middleton Country Fair - Flowers, Fruits & Vegetables

The hall has a display of flowers, fruits and vegetables

Even the Premier of Tasmania!

Making an appearance at the 2010 event (well, it was an election year!) Premier Bartlett and his family enjoyed some of the attractions with the general public. I’m sure the committee of volunteers appreciate any support, and funds raised are used to improve facilities in the area for locals and tourists.

Middleton Country Fair - Premier Bartlett

Premier Bartlett supported the 2010 Middleton Country Fair

Entry to the Middleton Country Fair costs $5 for adults; children are free.
Lucky gate prizes are drawn throughout the day.
The event is held annually on the first Saturday in February.
Contact Gloria Lonergan (03 6292 1606) for more details.

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