Since its beginning in 1993, the Fairs Program has grown to include more than 275,000 students across Canada each year. The long-term vision for the Fairs program is that every eligible student in Canada will have the opportunity to participate in a Fair or an online Fair Showcase during his or her years at school.
Why should students be involved in Heritage Fairs?
- The Fairs program supports existing curricula in all provinces and territories, and encourages a cross-curricular approach to teaching and learning.
- The Fairs give students the chance to share their own ideas and voices, thereby building student creativity and initiative. A wide variety of expressive styles are encouraged so that students can tell their own stories in their own ways.
- Creating a Fair project will enhance literacy skills. The emphasis on communication skills such as researching, interviewing, writing, editing, and speaking will benefit all students.
- The nature of the project topics explored by students often leads to valuable intergenerational dialogue. There are many opportunities for home / school / community interaction.
- Participation in a Fair engages citizenship skills. As young people develop stronger roots in their communities, they will have the confidence to become active citizens who shape the future of our country.
How do you get started?
Step 1: Visit our Resources section and download the School Fair Planning Guide. There are other documents to help you such as topic ideas for students, certificates of recognition for your volunteers, and spreadsheets to help with budgeting and administration.
Step 2: Enter the contact information and a description of your school's fair on the Fair Organizer's page. A Heritage Fair representative will contact you.
Step 3: Don't forget about the Stamp Stories contest. Held prior to the fairs as a way of getting students in the mindset of preparing their projects, it's a fun illustration contest that has them ponder about Canadian heritage.