REGIONAL- In 1911, hardy pioneers in the booming valley of Bear River assembled for an “exposition” of their harvest. Crops had flourished, and people attending from communities throughout the state were quite impressed with the farming skills of these Northwoods settlers. The gathering proved to be such a rousing success that they kept on doing it for more than 100 years. 
A combination of a lack of volunteers and COVID brought that storied run to an end. But now, after three years of rest, the Bear River Fair is back. This year's event on Saturday, Aug. 26 at the Bear River Community Center marks the 112th anniversary of that long-ago exposition. 
As in the very beginning, exhibits are the highlight of the event. Local folks are still invited to bring in the harvest from their gardens along with canning, baking, flowers, arts, crafts, photos, and other examples of their talents. Please enter at least one item to make this year’s fair the best ever. You do not have to be a resident of the area to exhibit. Exhibits will be judged a bit differently than in the past, but they will still be wonderful. Exhibits must be entered on Saturday morning, Aug. 26, between 9-11 a.m.
The “Kid Zone” will include family lawn games, a kid’s bike parade (bring bicycles), and a farm animal petting zoo.
The Farm Fresh Market will allow you to purchase fresh garden produce, fresh bakery items, and all sorts of goodies.
Treasures old and new may be found by poking around at the Bear River Community Fair Market booths Discover a wide variety of goods from antiques and gently used items to newly crafted products and fresh baked goods.
Smokey Bear will be appearing at the fair, and you’ll be able to check out the Fire Truck. The Bookmobile will be there for part of the day as well.
There’s food, too. A good gathering, after all, must have good food. Along with the outdoor popcorn and ice-cream the Northeast Itasca Rescue/Bearville First Responders will be serving a barbecued pulled pork dinner. Leave room for dessert, because the Bear River Church Pie Social follows the dinner. Yum!!!
Contact Gloria at 218-966-2817 or email bearrivercommunityfair@gmail.com, with questions, requests for tables, or to volunteer. Additional information can be found on the Bear River Community Fair page on Facebook.
The Bear River Community Center/Old Bear River School is handicapped accessible and is located at the intersection of Highways 22 and 5.