CONCERTS BACK AT THE 2022 WESTERN FAIR
To celebrate the return of the Western Fair this September a pair of exciting concerts has been announced. Both will be held in a new Fair venue - the London Major Appliances Olympic bowl of the Western Fair District Sports Centre.
LONDON, July 25, 2022 – To celebrate the return of the Western Fair this September a pair of exciting concerts has been announced. Both will be held in a new Fair venue - the London Major Appliances Olympic bowl of the Western Fair District Sports Centre.
It’s a powerful Canadian lineup with Valley headlining on Wednesday, September 14th, featuring New Friends and Lilyisthatyou. Iconic Finger Eleven will headline Thursday, September 15th, joined by I Mother Earth and local rockers Full Throttle.
Tickets go on sale this Saturday, July 30th at 10 a.m. See both full releases below.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
VALLEY
with NEW FRIENDS
and Lilyisthatyou
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2022
The Western Fair - LONDON, ON
London Major Appliances Rink
Doors: 6:30PM Show: 7:30PM
Concert Ticket Includes Admission to the Western Fair on Day of Show
Order online at https://www.westernfair.ca/
TICKETS ON SALE SATURDAY, July 30, 2022 at 10AM
Tickets (incl HST): $39.99
(plus ticketing fees and charges) All Ages / General Admission Floor, Reserved Seating
With over 210 million global streams, JUNO Award-nominated, Valley put together alternative pop with the care, adventurousness, and personal touch of a handmade burned CD. Cycling through moods like your favourite throwback Pinterest board, the Toronto quartet—Rob Laska, Michael “Mickey” Brandolino, Alex Dimauro, and Karah James—amplify sticky hooks through eloquent songcraft that’s cognizant of what came before, yet ready for the future. In 2016, Valley formed by accident when a local studio double booked them. During high school, Mike and Karah played in one band, while Rob and Alex played in another. They introduced themselves with self-written, self-produced releases, including the EP This Room Is White [2016] and full-length debut MAYBE [2019].
They joined Lennon Stella and The Band CAMINO on sold out tours across North America and even picked up a 2020 JUNO Award nomination in the category of “Breakthrough Group of the Year.” Following 2020’s sucks to see you doing better EP, the single “Like 1999” exploded. Its genesis traces back to a TikTok post of an unfinished version. After Valley completed the tune in under 48 hours, it went on to inspire hundreds of thousands of creates and eclipse 20 million streams while breaking boarders, appearing on viral charts in the U.S., Philippines, Korea, Japan and more.
After amassing over 100 million streams and earning acclaim from the likes of Atwood Magazine and American Songwriter, the group transmit this signature style through their latest EP Last Birthday for Universal Music Canada and new label partner Capitol Records.
About New Friends
With genre bending anthems translated through impactful and relatable emotions, New Friends are reinventing the standard for what popular music can be. As a product of their childhoods, they are nostalgic for the bands they loved growing up and continue to emulate those influences with a modern twist.
When Stefan Boulineau, Ayden Miller, Cole Wilson and Conrad Galecki crossed paths as music students in late 2018, the group clicked instantly and began working on demos in dorm rooms in London, Ontario. It didn’t take long until their hook-filled debut single, Purple Candy was out in the world. Reaching over 3.5 million streams on Spotify and climbing. They were recently announced winners of the "It's Your Shot" contest in Canada worth $100,000 in Artist Development.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FINGER ELEVEN
with I Mother Earth
also featuring Full Throttle
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2022
The Western Fair - LONDON, ON
London Major Appliances Rink
TICKETS ON SALE SATURDAY, July 30, 2022 at 10AM
Doors: 6:30PM Show: 7:30PM
Concert Ticket Includes Admission to the Western Fair on Day of Show
Order online at https://www.westernfair.ca/
Tickets (incl HST): $59.50
(plus ticketing fees and charges) All Ages / General Admission Floor, Reserved Seating
When Ontario, Canada rockers Finger Eleven decided to start writing the follow-up to their 2010 album Life Turns Electric, the band members all agreed they wanted to do something different, they just weren't exactly sure what they wanted to do. Since their formation in high school in 1990 (as Rainbow Butt Monkeys), the musicians, Scott Anderson (vocals), James Black (guitar), Rick Jackett (guitar) and Sean Anderson (bass) had released six full-length albums – including the Juno-Award winning Them Vs. You Vs. Me — and experimented with a variety of styles such as hard rock, classic rock, heavy blues and textural pop. So, over a two-and-a-half year period, they decided to try a bit of everything over a multitude of writing sessions.
Their 2003 self-titled album achieved Gold status in the United States and Platinum in Canada, largely from the success of the single "One Thing", which marked the band's first placing on the US Hot 100 Chart at number 16. The 2007 release of Them vs. You vs. Me launched the single "Paralyzer", which went on to top the Canadian Hot 100 and both US rock charts, as well as reaching No. 6 on the US Hot 100 and No. 12 on the Australian Singles Chart. They won the Juno Award for Rock Album of the Year in 2008. The same album was later certified gold in the US and multi-platinum in Canada. They released their sixth studio album, Life Turns Electric, on October 5, 2010; it was nominated as Best Rock Album of the Year at the Juno Awards of 2011. Five Crooked Lines, their 7th studio album, was released in 2015.
Between 1995 and 2016, Finger Eleven was among the top 75 best-selling Canadian artists in Canada and among the top 25 best-selling Canadian bands in Canada.
About I Mother Earth
When I Mother Earth first ended their 8 Year Hiatus in March of 2012 they did so by putting a countdown clock on their website that expired just in time for the band to perform 2 sold out shows at Toronto’s Sound Academy. In 2016 They turned the clock back…. 20 years back to be exact, and reunited with the bands original vocalist Edwin to celebrate the 20th anniversary of critically acclaimed multi Platinum album Scenery and Fish. This reunion caused the band to tour nationally for the first time since ending their hiatus. The tour dates whether on their own or with touring partners Our Lady Peace were a tremendous success and apparently a lot of fun as the band has decided to formally reunite with Edwin for the foreseeable future and even head into the studio to create new material.
Celebrating 20 of Scenery and Fish was a trip for IME. That album spawned 4 Top 10 Hits in Canada with “Raspberry”, “Another Sunday”, “Used to be Alright”, and “One More Astronaut”, but it’s the new music on the horizon and the opportunity to dive into their first record “Dig” that has both the Fans and the Band excited to explore. The debut record featured 4 top singles as well. “Levitate”, “Rain Will Fall”, “So Gently We Go” and Not Quite Sonic all hold a distinct place in the Hearts of I Mother earth fans.
About Full Throttle
Full Throttle is a 3 piece teenage power pop punk band from London Ontario, writing and performing punk rock anthems for those hungry for good ol’ fashioned rock n roll, with tunes that will never leave your ear holes.
Recipients of this years FCLMA youth award, Full Throttle has extensive live performance experience and has released two singles on all streaming platforms. They are currently working on a 5 song EP for release this fall. Don’t be fooled, this is not your average teenage boy band!
This project has been made possible in part by the Government of Canada.
Ce projet a été rendu possible en partie grâce au gouvernement du Canada.
Western Fair’s DAY OF DREAMS Returns
Day of Dreams returns to Western Fair on September 14th for children with special-needs, and their families. The day is an annual experience, with a tailored environment that takes the busy bustle of a traditional day at the fair down a notch or two, with manageable sights, sounds, smells, and no crowds.
Children with special needs can enjoy a day at the Fair, tailored just for them!
London, Ontario – July 19, 2022: Day of Dreams returns to Western Fair on September 14th for children with special needs, and their families. The day is an annual experience, with a tailored environment that takes the busy bustle of a traditional day at the fair down a notch or two, with manageable sights, sounds, smells, and no crowds.
In partnership with North American Midway Entertainment, the Western Fair is proud to provide Day of Dreams attendees with a free lunch along with their admission, rides and entertainment.
Day of Dreams is a unique opportunity for youngsters, designed to extend the fun of the annual Fair to those who may not otherwise experience it. With the support of Presenting Sponsor - Peter Inch & Associates, and along with Lunch Sponsors - John’s Fruits and Vegetables, and Coca-Cola Bottling Company, children aged three to twelve will have the opportunity to experience select Kiddyland midway rides, be entertained by the best acts the Fair has to offer, including a selection of our onsite attractions and entertainers.
Day of Dreams has a new location for 2022. The event will be delivered inside the Community Pavilion, with attendees entering the event through the Gateway between the Sports Center and the Agriplex.
Kiddyland Midway rides will operate in the morning, followed by lunch in the Community Pavilion, and entertainment and animals will be offered inside and out, in various new locations on the south side of the fairgrounds, as part of the Western Fair’s new layout. Tons of free parking will be available on the main lot at Rectory and Florence Streets.
Application forms for families who feel their child would enjoy this opportunity to sample the Western Fair, at their own pace, can be found on the fair’s website. 500 spots are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Media Contact:
Greg Blanchard, gblanchard@westernfairdistrict.com
519-438-7203 ex. 239
Day of Dreams Coordinator:
Michelle Scott, mscott@westernfairdistrict.com
519-438-7203 ex. 346
Western Fair Announces 2022 Attractions
Western Fair is back, and it’s packed with all the fun fairgoers have come to love. Happy Days are here again as thrill rides, food, entertainment, indoor displays and competitions, animals, and attractions decorate the grounds for a last blast of fun this fall. Check out all the fair attractions announced today!
London, Ontario, July 12, 2022: Western Fair is back, and it’s packed with all the fun fairgoers have come to love. Happy Days are here again as thrill rides, food, entertainment, indoor displays and competitions, animals, and attractions decorate the grounds for a last blast of fun this fall.
Check out all the fair attractions announced today! For more information and to purchase tickets go to westernfair.ca
The following attractions will be in the Western Fair COMMUNITY PAVILION - inside the Agriplex:
The Canine Circus – We’re taking the circus for a walk! Witness world-renowned furry four-legged cast members perform tail-wagging feats of courage, bone-dropping grand illusions, and Labrador-able stunts! Watch the miracles and mayhem unfold all around you!
Smash Wrestling – Sit ring side for a unique blend of long-form storytelling that mixes the hottest independent wrestlers from all over the world with the Canadian superstars of tomorrow! Smash Wrestling brings people together to celebrate everything that we love about professional wrestling.
Find these acts alongside the MAIN MIDWAY:
Mighty Mike - Witness Mighty Mike juggle bowling balls and sledgehammers as if light as a feather, tear packs of cards, bend pounds of metal... while wearing a 1920s style bathing suit. Quick-witted jokes keep audiences all over the world laughing amidst the impressive feats of strength. This is a strongman show like you've never seen before!
The Silver Starlets – All-female aerial acrobatics show. Full of glam, glitz and glitter, they twist, tumble, bend, climb and fall, getting the audience cheering, laughing, and sometimes even dancing right along with them. But do not let their tutus fool you; The Silver Starlets captivate their audience with family-friendly charm, beautiful grace, and amazing strength. These girls do not sweat...they sparkle!
Ride the Vibe – A unique and exciting motorcycle stunt show where spectators stand 15 feet from the action! Each show features a unique display of technical maneuvers and the rider's conquering obstacles, including leaps, and helmet-scraping backflips sure to thrill audiences.
The Hockey Circus Show – A family-friendly hockey tribute show that combines acrobatics, juggling, and one-of-a-kind circus stunts into 3 periods of "arena" rocking fun.
The Farmer’s Daughter – harvests bales of belly laughter and truck loads of fun. Farm-tastic gymnastics, rowdy rope tricking, and a one-of-a-kind milk bottle walk finale combine for an udderly amazing show (filled with corny humour). Yee-haw!!
Located Outside on the Family Stage in KIDDYLAND:
The Magic of Aaron Matthews – Aaron’s show is a unique mix of gut busting laughter, high energy dancing, impossible miracles, inspiring stories and shocking moments!
Bex in Motion - Take a spin with Bex in Motion! A show that incorporates fire, acrobatics, and mesmerizing hula hoop tricks. Spontaneous dance parties and outbreaks of fun and excitement for all ages! With her quirky, light-hearted attitude and ability to involve audience members - Bex puts on a show that is sure to move you!
Dan the Music Man - Calling all kids and kids at heart! Are you ready for the musical adventure that will stretch your imagination, tickle your funny bone and warm your heart? Join one of Canada's favourite children's performers, songwriters and recording artists of musical family fun, Dan the Music Man!
DooDoo the International Clown - A staple at Western Fair for many years is back this September. Nominated best clown in the world by his mom you should check out his silly, unbelievable comedy show. Catch-up to him strolling the fairgrounds with his unbelievable antics.
Marky Monday - is an award-winning children’s entertainment rockstar who delivers a high energy, interactive, solo electric guitar performance that engages audiences with comedy, sing-along songs, jumping, clapping, and loads of crowd participation.
Kids 10 & under, and Seniors 70+ are FREE at Western Fair, everyone else is $15 at the gate. Buy early and save on Advance Super Passes - $40 (ride-all-day bracelet + fair admission) and Advance General Admission - $12
Corporate group sale packages are also available for businesses that want to offer value pricing for their employees, as well as private groups of 15 or more. Check out WESTERNFAIR.CA
About the Fair:
The Western Fair is the City of London’s largest community event, one of Canada’s major fairs and a Top 10 event in Ontario. Western Fair is a ten-day, fun-filled event every fall, and delights in welcoming fair fans and families back to its first fair in two years, September 9-18, 2022. Check out admissions, promotions, and fair information at westernfair.ca
For More Information:
Greg Blanchard, Director of Sales and Retail, WFD
gblanchard@westernfairdistrict.com
(519) 438-7203 EX 239
Covid-19 Caused a Crafting Comeback…So Comeback and Share Your Pandemic Projects at the Fair
Did you find arts and crafts helpful to pass the time
throughout the past two years? Pandemic statistics state there was a 200% boom in online
hobby sales and Western Fair can’t wait to see your work on display during this year’s annual fair.
London, Ontario, June 21, 2022: Did you find arts and crafts helpful to pass the time throughout the past two years? Pandemic statistics state there was a 200% boom in online hobby sales and Western Fair can’t wait to see your work on display during this year’s annual fair.
Happy Days are here again – and our arts, culinary and gardening competition entries are open with lots of categories and Creative Arts Competition opportunities for all ages. Our valued sponsor The Londoner is back on board as our 2022 Creative Arts Competition supporter, helping Western Fair get out message out to the public, and we couldn’t be happier! Watch for community and fair competition updates and information in The Londoner throughout July and August.
How do you showcase your crafty creations at the Western Fair? It’s as easy as one, two three.
Visit the fair’s website westerfair.ca and go to the Competitions Page to register online as an exhibitor.
Check out all the available 2022 competitions from fine art, photography, crafts, culinary, quilts, flowers, vegetable competitions and more, and select the categories you want to enter.
Drop your entries off at the Western Fair’s Entry Office in August to be judged for your chance to win thousands of dollars in prize money, bragging rights and your skills on display for all of London to see!
The Western Fair would love to see a ton of community members share their talents as we get back to doing what we love best at the fair – Creative Arts Competition and creative competitions. Exhibitors are encouraged to use our new online entry process at western.fairwire.com
Need assistance give our competitions team a call at (519) 438-7203 ex 327 or email prizebook@wesernfairdistrict.com
Western Fair is the place to share and showcase your talents and hobbies. If a gardening green thumb is more your style we have competition classes for that too. Many divisions and classes to enter, something for everyone and every age, and if you have ideas for future competitions we would love to hear from you.
BUY EARLY, SAVE BIG: If you would like to attend the Western Fair, September 9-18, 2022, discounted Advance Tickets are available online at www.westernfair.ca NEW this year Children 10 & under and Seniors 70+ are FREE!
For More Information:
Greg Blanchard
(519) 438-7203 EX 239
gblanchard@westernfairdistrict.com
New Fair Layout to Delight Fairgoers this September
“An exciting new annual fair layout is in store for fairgoers in 2022,” says Reg Ash, CEO of the Western Fair Association. The redesign of buildings, midways, parking, and agriculture offerings will provide a more cohesive and interconnected fair experience come the start of the fall classic.
London, Ontario, June 14, 2022: Happy Days are here again as the 2022 Western Fair returns this September. “An exciting new annual fair layout is in store for fairgoers in 2022,” says Reg Ash, CEO of the Western Fair Association. The redesign of buildings, midways, parking, and agriculture offerings will provide a more cohesive and interconnected fair experience come the start of the fall classic. The re-design will wrap ALL the fun of the midway, outdoor food, exhibitors, attractions, and entertainment around a new home for community displays, competitive arts, indoor attractions, and arts & culture exhibits - the Agriplex.
Many fair fans will remember the Agriplex, as the home of animal exhibits, livestock breed displays, and farm programming, and most recently a vaccine clinic throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. This fall the fair team will convert the plex back into a big, modern, indoor display space for London’s award-winning fair. The Agriplex’s lobby, pavilion and arena will be a game-changer for indoor exhibits, attractions, and community competitions at the fair. Traditional fair display buildings of the past, on the north side of the grounds have all been successfully repurposed. London’s Best Market lives in the beautiful old Confederation Building, and the Canada and Progress Buildings now serve as the Western Fair Association’s new agri-food hub – The Grove.
Animals and farming displays, an important educational element of an agricultural fair in an urban centre, will move to the Raceway’s handsome Paddock facility. The barn built in 2001 for housing horses during the Western Fair District’s race season, will transform into a more intimate and interactive agriculture experience. The space is an exciting project for the fair team to re-develop for our livestock and animal experts, as well as the thousands of fair guests who make a visit to the barn a must-do activity when at the fair.
Music and concerts will also evolve to provide a new indoor experience for fair attendees, with the Western Fair Sports Centre’s Olympic Bowl converted from ice surface to concert space, for a couple of nights this fall.
“A newly designed fair is just one of many changes to the District, and our team, since our last event in 2019,” said Reg Ash, CEO. Western Fair Association’s Board, management and staff have accommodated many changes throughout the last two years, and the organization continues to innovate to serve its agricultural mandate in new ways. “Our traditional fair footprint was inevitably going to change by the advancement of The Grove - our new agri-business hub which repurposed many older fair buildings, and the introduction of London’s Rapid Transit along King, Ontario, and Dundas streets, as well as Queens Park on the North side of the grounds. The reimagined fair blueprint will prepare us for future success and functionality of our ever-evolving London landmark.” said Ash.
The Western Fair’s team of dedicated employees are happy to get back to business and launch the new fair and new layout, with all the fun, rides, food, competitions, music, and animals our customers have come to love. The pandemic has reminded everyone how much we miss being together, the significance of community and the annual fair has been that memorable meeting place for all, for more than a century, surviving wars, fires, depressions and now pandemics. See you in September southwestern Ontario.
The Western Fair, one of Canada’s largest fairs and a Top 10 event in Ontario, is excited to welcome fair fans and families back to its first fair in two years, September 9-18, 2022. Happy Days are here again as rides, food, entertainment, indoor displays and competitions, animals and attractions decorate the grounds for a last blast of fun this fall. Check out admissions, promotions, and fair information at westernfair.ca further details, attractions and entertainment announced throughout the summer.
For More Information:
Greg Blanchard, Director of Sales and Retail, WFD
gblanchard@westernfairdistrict.com
(519) 438-7203 EX 239