Rides, entertainment, animals and food trucks are just a few of the many attractions to enjoy at a scaled-down VIEX from Aug. 27 through 29 at Beban Park Fairgounds. (VIEX)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

popular event

VIEX approaches at Beban Park, scaled down event sees vast admission reduction

Aug 23, 2021 | 5:30 AM

NANAIMO — While this year’s Vancouver Island Exhibition will be smaller than past fairs, most of its popular attractions are back.

The 127th annual fair runs Friday Aug. 27 through Sunday Aug. 29 at the Beban Park Fairgrounds, marking one of the first large events to take place in Nanaimo during the COVID-19 era.

Fair treasurer Stephen Kass told NanaimoNewsNOW said they’ll have rides, food trucks, animals and a singular entertainment stage.

He said there will be no indoor activities for safety reasons.

“It’s going to be a small footprint, we will have a few less activities than normal, but think we are still going to be bringing bang for the buck for everybody.”

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Admission prices this time around are vastly reduced: tickets are $5 each and kids six and under get in free.

A full offering of amusement rides for all ages and associated carnival games will be available at the popular agricultural fair.

Roughly a dozen food trucks will be offering fair mainstays like hot dogs, burgers and mini donuts, while international choices like Mediterranean and Brazilian cuisine will be available.

Some new attractions were added to this year’s VIEX, including a saloon serving Vancouver Island craft beer, ciders and wines.

Kass said the VIEX board assembled a required communicable disease plan after it was revealed a fair could be staged this year under stage three of the province’s current re-opening plan.

“Our board of directors decided we were going to put the pedal to the metal and try to put together as close to a regular fair as we could in a seven week period.”

While no crowd size limits are in place, Kass said numerous enhanced safety measures are implemented, such as extra on-site cleaning, along with hand-washing and sanitation stations.

“We are strongly encouraging people to remain socially distanced where we can and while it’s not mandated to wear masks we are really encouraging people to bring them.”

Kass said while fewer animals will be at this year’s event, a petting barn for kids will be open.

Complete details on this year’s fair, including a schedule of events and operating hours can be found at the VIEX website here.

Last year’s VIEX was offered online, while some portions of this year’s event will also be available virtually.

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