Hall Rentals, please contact Perry N at (519) 681-9605.
—
The Oneida Agricultural Society (OAS), also known as the Oneida Fairboard, is non-profit organization. This event has been a community event for the Oneida Nation of Thames since 1879. Since its inception, it has been the focus of bringing together our people in fellowship and reuniting with family for a homecoming. The event is also a cele
bration of our agricultural heritage and to showcase the many other talents our people possess. This event now runs in early fall (mid-late September) and sees many activities for the young and old alike. We have “Family Day” as day one to promote the unity of parents, guardians and children. We also have children who have been designated crown wards attend this day with chaperones to promote where they come from and interact with their own people. This day is about giving the children and youth a day that is full of fun and enjoyment. We offer inflatable rides, at no cost, for the children accompanied with a parent, guardian or chaperone. We also encourage our local administration to participate with information and interactive booths set up for this special day. Miss Oneida/Oneida Brave Pageant will be held. Day two is the “Parade Day” that opens with a community parade. This allows a place to acknowledge our children, youth and adults in the many successes they have had throughout the year. We also have our local Veterans association and colour guard participate. We have the local volunteer fire department, emergency response and police department in the parade. And of course no parade would be complete without a marching band. Oneida Marching and Brass band performs every year. This day is the busiest with children and youth events. These events include decorated bikes, kids foot races, baby contest, four-mile foot race and Smoke Dance competition. And that’s all before 8:00PM! The evening is a crowd-pleaser with local and First Nations bands and singers sharing their gifts with the Oneida people. Fireworks caps off this spectacular day! Day Three opens after an interdenominational church service held at the grandstand for all people to attend. Lawnmower races, fashion show, and paint day are this day! We have the pleasure of having a horse show on this day. This brings the people back year after year! Overall, this event brings together our people, showcases their talents and celebrates the rich culture and tradition we have as Oneida people.
