In 1907, a group of business from Vancouver got together and formed the Vancouver Exhibition Association. They wanted to promote the industry and agriculture within the surrounding area, as well as providing a fun summer family event. Planning took three years, and the first fair began on August 15, 1910, and was opened by the Prime Minister at the time, Sir Wilfrid Laurier.
The first fair was attended by 68,000 visitors over 17 days, and at the time was the second largest fair in North America, second to the New York State Fair. There were trade stalls from various industrial companies of the time, such as Singer Sewing Machines and the Electric Water Heater company. There was also a large entertainment aspect, named Skid Road, which included games, rides, and live entertainment such as dancers and comedians. Gambling and horse racing also took place. This eclectic mix of exhibition and entertainment attracted people in Vancouver from all walks of life, and the first fair was a great success.
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