149 Years Later, Fair Favourites Return for Everyone

Ask a Londoner what makes the Western Fair the Fair, and chances are it’s something they remember from childhood.

The animals. The rides. Racing pigs. Creative Arts. The crash of the Demolition Derby. Fair food. And, for many, the excitement of now introducing their own kids or grandkids to those same traditions.

For 149 years, Fair favourites have become family traditions. And while a lot has changed along the way, one thing hasn’t: the Western Fair is a place for the community to come together.

From September 11–20, those favourites are back for 10 days, along with plenty of ways to help make a day at the Fair work for more families and more budgets.

All the favourites that make it the Fair

Animals are at the heart of the Western Fair, with pigs, cattle, goats, llamas, alpacas, rabbits, chickens and horses filling the Animal Barn. Live milking demonstrations and agricultural activities bring a little bit of the country into the city.

Beyond the barns, there’s Fair entertainment around every corner.

Aces Flying Pig Races return for multiple races each day, while Canine Circus and the Grand Illusion Show featuring Aaron Matthews bring family entertainment to the TD Theatre.

Keep an eye out for Bandaloni the One Man Band and Doo Doo the International Clown roaming the grounds, too.

Inside the McCormick Community Pavilion, the Tomco Carousel Stage will showcase community talent, classic competitions and Circus Surreal’s tricks and stunts. Nearby, Creative Arts presented by Comfort Suites London continues a generations-old tradition of sharing handmade creations with the community.

And, of course, Happy will be back for 10 days of hugs, high-fives and photos.

But some Fair traditions are a little louder than others.

The Jayden’s Mechanical Grandstand will once again come alive with Monster Trucks and FMX Showcases, featuring 10,000-pound trucks, freestyle action and stunts.

Then there’s the Demolition Derby, delivering two nights of crashing, plus a night of Figure 8 racing.

From September 11–13, the STIHL TIMBERSPORTS Canadian Championship will also bring Canada’s top athletes to the Fair as they chop and saw their way toward a spot at the World Championships.

And it’s all included with Fair admission.

Big Fair fun for real budgets

A day at the Fair can include animals, shows, demonstrations, Creative Arts, exhibits and live music — all with one admission.

Buy in advance and general admission starts at $15. An advance SuperPass is $50 and includes admission plus unlimited midway rides for one day.

Even better, kids 10 and under and big kids 65 and older get in free, making the Fair an easy place for three generations to spend the day together.

Getting here can be free, too. Through Fare to the Fair, your paid Western Fair ticket gets you free LTC transportation to and from the Fair throughout all 10 days.

Making sure more people can be part of it

Keeping the Fair accessible goes beyond ticket prices.

On September 18, Day of Dreams, sponsored by Westland Insurance, returns with a sensory-friendly Fair experience before the gates open to the public. The program will welcome 400 registered children with special needs and their families, with approximately 1,000 people expected to take part in the afternoon.

The Fair Share Fundraiser is also back for its third year, giving schools and registered non-profits a way to raise money through Fair ticket sales. Participating organizations receive $1 from every general admission ticket and $2 from every SuperPass sold through their program.

And after a successful first year, Community Hours, sponsored by Old East Village BIA, return on opening day. From 3–5 p.m. on Friday, September 11, admission is free for everyone.

It’s all part of something that has been at the heart of the Western Fair for nearly a century and a half: creating a place where everyone can find their happy place.

Because 149 years later, Fair traditions aren't only about remembering what you did as a kid.

They're about getting to share it with the next generation.

The Western Fair runs September 11–20, 2026, at Western Fair District in London.

For schedules, tickets and everything you need to plan your day, visit westernfair.ca.

New ways to play, taste, explore and save at this year’s Fair

Every trip to the Western Fair has its must-dos: the midway, the animals, the food and the familiar sights and sounds that tell you the Fair is back. In 2026, there are even more reasons to find your happy place, with new experiences around nearly every corner. 

Expect the unexpected 

This year’s entertainment is bringing a playful sense of surprise. Keep an eye out for the Bathtub Singer cruising through the grounds and performing from a clawfoot tub, or catch the Hockey Circus Show bringing acrobatics, juggling and hockey stunts together in three high-energy periods of family fun. 

Motor fans can cheer on expanded motor mayhem throughout the Fair, with FMX all 10 days, three nights of Monster Trucks, two Demo Derby competitions, two nights of FMX & BMX All Stars Live and a Figure 8 Derby sponsored by Jayden’s Mechanical. 

Animal lovers have lots of new reasons to visit, too. Meet Jersey Ridge Mini Moo’s — micro-mini Highland cows, enjoy free pony rides, take on the new Feel the Farm Mystery Challenge, or try Goat Yoga in the infield pasture on Saturdays and Sundays. 

Come hungry for something new 

Fair food is supposed to be fun, and this year’s new menu items deliver. 

Try a crispy Birria Taco Bomb filled with slow-braised beef and melted cheese, then dip it into rich consommé. Crunch into freshly made tanghulu candy fruit, or cool down with a colourful dirty soda topped with treats like real cotton candy. 

Celebrate Latin culture at La Cantina 

On Saturday, September 19, La Cantina will bring together food, drinks and a full day of Latin music and culture. The day’s entertainment includes Latin and mariachi performances, leading into Los Grandes Del Norte that evening. 

A new concert every night 

Ten Fair days mean ten nights of concerts. 

The 2026 lineup moves from the soaring alt-folk of The Strumbellas to the blues-rock sound of Wide Mouth Mason, the smooth throwback of The Yacht Rock Show, the ’90s hip-hop and R&B party of Wing Night, and a country finale featuring Sully Burrows with Carson Janik and Tyler Lorette. 
Sponsored by Bud Light Music Garden.See the full line-up.

You can also tune into Western Fair Radio, the new soundtrack of the Fair, before you arrive and while you explore. 

New ways to explore London’s stories and community 

Heritage Hall will become a new home for London’s history. This exhibit brings together some of our region’s treasured heritage organizations under one roof, showcasing artifacts and stories spanning 200 years of local history. 

There’s another new way to experience local history at Stage 10 by CTV London. The pop-up theatre celebrates more than 70 years of regional storytelling with short films exploring local landmarks and stories, including Banting House, Middlesex Courthouse, Labatt Park, London’s streetcars and the Western Fair. 

In recognition of the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Legion, the Fair will also feature Honouring Bravery, an educational display exploring Canada’s role in D-Day. Fairgoers can stop by the Ask a Veteran area to connect directly with those who served, hear their stories and ask questions. 

The new Garden Gazebo will bring gardening, sustainability and green spaces into bloom. Local London and area horticultural groups will be on hand throughout the Fair to share their knowledge and passion with visitors. 

Presented in partnership with KidSport and the London Sports Council, the new Sports Expo will invite guests to meet local experts, ask questions, try a sport and discover new ways for children to stay active in the community. 

Celebrate 25 years of the Sports Centre 

The Sports Centre is celebrating its 25th anniversary with special programming throughout the Fair. 

The schedule includes a 911 Police vs. Fire hockey game, NHL Alumni game, London Nationals home opener, public skating, a skate-a-thon supporting Children’s Health Foundation and speed skating demonstrations. 

For three days, the Fair will also welcome a special Hockey Hall of Fame experience, featuring historic hockey treasures and trophies, plus 15 interactive games and exhibits. An experience that typically costs $35 at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto will be included with Fair admission during the program. 

Sports Centre programming is included with Fair admission. Tickets to select hockey games are $20 and include admission to the Fair. Children 10 and under and adults 65 and older receive free admission to the Fair and hockey games. 

Creativity gets wonderfully weird 

Creative Arts is getting wonderfully weird with new competitions for all ages. Sponsored by Comfort Suites.

You’ll find pet rocks with unique stories, paper-roll monsters and marshmallow monster pops. New photography categories showcase patterns in nature, reflections and young people’s views of their world. 

Prefer classic Fair competitions? Look for new categories like the largest potato or best homemade peach pie.

New midway rides 

Thrill seekers can add two new rides to their list: Super Miami and Downdraft.

Swing, rotate and spin your way through two new midway experiences — including moments of weightlessness you won’t forget. 

New ways to save — plus some freebies 

Enjoying the Western Fair on a budget is getting easier, with new ways to save on food, drinks, admission and midway rides. 

Stay refreshed with free chilled, filtered water stations throughout the Fair.  

Want to sample more food while spending less? Participating vendors will offer select food items for $6 before 6 p.m. Families can also look for the new 4 for $40 family meal deal at the J-AAR Expo Centre concession. 

Families who love the midway can visit on Midway Monday to get 75 ride tickets for only $30 -  perfect for sharing a few favourite rides together. 

On We Care Wednesday, September 16, bring a non-perishable food item and receive $2 off gate admission. All donations will go to Harvest Hands, which will use them to create family food boxes filled with shelf-stable essentials. 

There are freebies, too! The first 250 visitors to the Happy Camper during opening weekend will receive a free Happy Jibbitz shoe charm. If you miss out, visit the new Fair merchandise tent for exclusive shirts, stickers, squishies and other souvenirs. 

These new offers join returning Fair favourites, including: 

• The advance Superpass, combining discounted admission with unlimited rides for one day 

• Free Community Hours on opening day, September 11, from 3 to 5 p.m. 

• Free LTC bus rides with paid Fair admission 

• Super Sunday, with special admission and midway savings on the final Sunday 

• A $6 Bounce Back coupon to help you return for another day of Fair fun. Sponsored by Access Storage

Plan your Fair day 

The Western Fair runs September 11–20, 2026. 

Advance admission starts at $15 online, with even more savings available online for ride-seekers. Children 10 and under and adults 65 and older get in free. Sponsored by Kiwanis Forest City London, In Partnership with OLG and Cascades Casino

Concerts, attractions and shows are all included with admission. 

There’s plenty that’s brand new — and all the Fair traditions you already love. 

Find your happy place and buy tickets at discounted advance pricing before September 11. 

Find Your Sound at the 2026 Western Fair!

Guitar-driven rock, country favourites, big sing-alongs or a night of dancing – Western Fair 2026 has it all! The Bud Light Music Garden is bringing 10 days of FREE live music to the 149th Western Fair.

Be it Canadian rock staples, rising country artists, or tribute acts that bring your favourite hits to the stage, there's a reason to grab your friends and make your way to the Bud Light Music Garden every night of the Fair!

For the Rock Crowd

If big guitars, energetic performances and Canadian rock are your thing, the Music Garden has plenty on the schedule!

The Fair kicks off with The Strumbellas on Friday, September 11. Known for blending intimate songwriting with anthemic folk-rock, the Canadian group will take the stage at 9:30 p.m.

On Saturday, Wide Mouth Mason brings its blues, rock and roots sound to the Garden, followed by Texas King on Sunday, September 13. Known for their infectious melodies and high-energy live shows, Texas King hits the stage at 9 p.m.

The rock lineup continues throughout the week with The OverKillers, a high-energy tribute to The Killers, on September 15, followed by Canadian alternative rock favourites Chalk Circle on September 16. Earlier that evening, fans can catch POINTLESS: The Songs of Bill Priddle, celebrating songs from Bill Priddle's career, including favourites from Treble Charger.

For the Country Crowd

Country fans, Sunday, September 20 is one to have on your Fair calendar!

The Bud Light Music Garden is bringing together a lineup of Canada’s rising country artists for a full day of country music, making it the perfect opportunity to discover your next favourite artist.

Headlining the day is Sully Burrows, one of Canada’s most exciting emerging country artists and the 2025 CMAOntario Breakthrough Artist of the Year. Burrows has played major festivals including Boots & Hearts and LASSO and continues to build a strong national following with his high-energy performances and modern country sound.

Joining him is Tyler Lorette, the 2026 CMAOntario Breakthrough Artist of the Year. With millions of streams and a string of indie radio hits, Lorette has quickly become one of the names to watch in Canadian country music, bringing an energetic live show and fresh sound to the Bud Light Music Garden.

Also joining the lineup is Carson Janik, an Ontario-based artist known for his road-tested live performances and growing presence across Canada and the U.S.

If country is your thing, Sunday has your name on it!

For the Big Sing-Along

Some nights are made for singing along, and the Bud Light Music Garden has plenty in store!

On Monday, September 14, Taylor's Story: The Unofficial Tribute brings a full concert-style production inspired by one of pop music's biggest stars. With storytelling, fan-favourite songs and plenty of opportunities to sing along, it's a must for pop fans.

The night also features a Chappell Roan Tribute, bringing even more pop energy to the Music Garden.

Then on Thursday, September 17, the Music Garden sets sail with the Yacht Rock Show with timeless hits inspired by Toto, Steely Dan, Michael McDonald, Kenny Loggins, Christopher Cross, The Doobie Brothers, Boz Scaggs and more!

For the Dance Floor

The Music Garden isn't just for sitting back and listening!

Wing Night the Band brings the party on Friday, September 18 with a high-energy night of music, while Saturday, September 19 turns the Garden into a celebration of Latin music and culture – with a lineup features Ana Mexico and the Latin Power Band, 7 Seconds, Latin Power Dance Academy, Antonio Alas Mariachi, Mariachi Los Gallos and Los Grandes Del Norte.

Bring your dancing shoes - this one is made for the dance floor!

Ten Days. Something for Everyone!

With live music happening throughout the 149th Western Fair, the Bud Light Music Garden is the place to discover a new favourite, sing along to an old one or simply spend a night listening to great live music with friends.

And the best part? Everything is FREE with admission!

Check out the full Music Garden lineup and start planning your Fair nights.

Bud Light Music Garden Line-Up

• Friday, Sept. 11: The Strumbellas – 9:30 p.m.

• Saturday, Sept. 12: The Joel Dupuis Band – 7:30 p.m.; Wide Mouth Mason – 9 p.m.

• Sunday, Sept. 13: Texas King – 9 p.m.

• Monday, Sept. 14: Karen Emeny – 4:30 p.m.; Jason Mercer- 6:00 p.m.; Chappell Roan Tribute – 7:30 p.m.; Taylor’s Story: The Unofficial Tribute – 8:15 p.m.

• Tuesday, Sept. 15: My Artiface- 4:00 p.m.; ToNi Blu – 6 p.m.; The OverKillers – 9 p.m.

• Wednesday, Sept. 16: Leanne Mayer Band – 4 p.m.; Kaleb Hikele- 6:00 p.m.; POINTLESS: The Songs of Bill Priddle – 7:30 p.m.; Chalk Circle – 9:15 p.m.

• Thursday, Sept. 17: Karen Emeny – 4:30 p.m.; Errol Blackwood & Injah – 6 p.m.; The Yacht Rock Show – 8:30 p.m.

• Friday, Sept. 18: Tyler Delargie- 4:30 p.m.; Fool Hearts – 6:30 p.m.; Wing Night The Band – 8:30 p.m.

• Saturday, Sept. 19: Ana Mexico Latin Power Band- noon; 7 Minutes-2:00 p.m., Latin Passion Dance Academy-1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m,; Antonio Alas Mariachi-3:30 p.m.; Mariachi Los Gallos –6:00 p.m.; and Los Grandes Del Norte-8:00 p. m.

• Sunday, Sept. 20: Tyler DeLargie – noon; Ness – 1:15 p.m.; Tyler Lorette – 4 p.m.; Carson Janik – 5:30 and 7 p.m.; Sully Burrows – 8:30 p.m.

Celebrate 25 Years of the Sports Centre at the 2026 Western Fair – New this year

London, Ontario, August 18, 2026: For 25 years, the Sports Centre at Western Fair District has been a place to play, compete, learn and connect. This September we are marking that with ten days of hockey and skating during the 2026 Western Fair.

From September 11 to 20, you can explore hockey history, cheer on local teams, lace up your own skates and watch former NHL players come back to the ice. Most of it is included with your Fair admission.

The people who keep our community moving

Things get going Friday, September 11, with an opening ceremony at 4:30 p.m. on the front steps of the Sports Centre.

At 6 p.m., members of London Fire, London Police, the Ontario Provincial Police and the local medical community take the ice for a 9/11 commemorative game. These are the people who show up when the rest of us need them, and this is a chance to give them a proper crowd.

On Saturday, September 12, the London Nationals open their home season at 2 p.m.

All hockey games are $20 and include Fair admission. Kids 10 and under and big kids 65 and over are free for the games and the Fair.

25 hours of skating for a very good reason

London Children's Health Foundation is hosting a 25-hour Skate-a-thon across three days, Saturday, September 12 through Monday, September 14, aiming to raise $25,000 for children's healthcare in Southwestern Ontario.

Twenty-five hours, twenty-five thousand dollars, twenty-five years. You can register to skate and every hour helps.

Register for the Skate-a-thon →

The week also brings public skating sessions and a London Speed Skating Club showcase, all included with your Fair admission.

The Hockey Hall of Fame is coming to London

From September 17 to 19, the Sports Centre welcomes a Hockey Hall of Fame exhibit. This is the real thing, on tour from Toronto, and it is the part of the week hockey fans should plan around.

The exhibit is valued at $35 per person and is included with your Fair admission. Here is what is inside.

•      New and original Hockey Hall of Fame Legends exhibits

•      Seven celebrated hockey trophies

•      The Hockey Hall of Fame Legends Theatre

•      The Art of Hockey Gallery

•      15 interactive games

•      Unique experiences including Tales with the Cup

Getting this close to hockey history usually means a trip to Toronto. For three days it is happening on Florence Street, and your Fair ticket covers it.

NHL Alumni take on local law enforcement

The celebration closes Sunday, September 20 at 2 p.m. with NHL Alumni against the London Law Enforcement All Stars.

Expect end to end rushes, dazzling dekes, big shots and a lot of friendly competition from players who still know exactly what they are doing out there.

Proceeds support the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Ontario. Tickets are $20, with kids 10 and under and big kids 65 and over free.

Sports Centre 25th Anniversary Schedule

Friday, September 11

4:30 p.m. 25th anniversary opening ceremony

6 p.m. 9/11 commemorative game featuring local first responders and medical professionals

Saturday, September 12

2 p.m. London Nationals home opener

6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Skate-a-thon in support of Children's Health Foundation

Sunday, September 13

2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Public skate

6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Public skate

7 a.m. to 10 a.m., 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. Skate-a-thon in support of Children’s Health Foundation

Monday, September 14

7 a.m. to 9 a.m., 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. Skate-a-thon in support of Children’s Health Foundation

Tuesday, September 15

London Speed Skating Club showcase

Thursday, September 17 to Saturday, September 19

Hockey Hall of Fame experience, included with Fair admission

‍Sunday, September 20

2 p.m. NHL Alumni vs London Law Enforcement All-Stars, supporting the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Ontario

Join the celebration

Whether you are a lifelong hockey fan, a recreational skater, or a family looking for something different to do together, the Sports Centre's 25th anniversary adds a lot to this year's Fair.

Buy tickets to the hockey games →

Buy advance tickets to the Fair →

Fair tickets include Sports Centre activities, except for hockey games.

La Cantina: A Celebration of Latin Music & Culture

The 149th Western Fair and Corona are proud to introduce La Cantina, a one-day celebration of Mexican music, culture and community taking place Saturday, September 19 at the Bud Light Music Garden. From noon until 10:30 p.m., La Cantina brings authentic cuisine, cultural dancing and a full day of live Norteño, mariachi and Latin performances.

Headlining is Los Grandes Del Norte, a Mexico-based Norteño band recognized in Canada and a regular at major community celebrations including Toronto's Mexican Day Festival. Known for the signature sounds of accordion and bajo sexto, they close the night from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m.

Mariachi Los Gallos, a spectacular 13-piece ensemble, performs two evening sets. Latin Power Dance Academy presents live dance performances and invites fairgoers to join in and learn popular Latin styles, whether you are an experienced dancer or taking your first steps. Also on the bill are Antonio Alas Mariachi, Ana Mexico and the Latin Power Band and 7 Seconds.

"La Cantina celebrates the music, traditions and culture that bring communities together," said Craig Goyetche, Entertainment and Production Manager. "From traditional mariachi and Norteño music to contemporary Latin performances, live dance demonstrations and audience participation, the celebration offers something for everyone while creating a vibrant cultural experience for London and Southwestern Ontario."

Saturday, September 19, entertainment schedule

• 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. Ana Mexico and the Latin Power Band

• 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. Latin Power Dance Academy (performance and dance instruction)

• 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. 7 Seconds

• 3:00 to 3:30 p.m. Latin Power Dance Academy (performance and dance instruction)

• 3:30 to 4:20 p.m. Antonio Alas Mariachi

• 4:40 to 5:30 p.m. Antonio Alas Mariachi (second set)

• 6:00 to 6:45 p.m. Mariachi Los Gallos (13-piece mariachi ensemble)

• 7:15 to 8:00 p.m. Mariachi Los Gallos (second set)

• 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. Los Grandes Del Norte

La Cantina is included with admission to the 149th Western Fair. Kids 10 and under and big kids 65 and over are always free.

See the full La Cantina line-up, bar menu and street tacos

Buy Tickets