In an effort to recapture some of the 100,000 estimated visits lost through last weekend’s historic windstorm, the PNE will be making admission free between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. tomorrow.
“This is about calling on British Columbia to come out during this incredibly challenging time in our history and support our non-profit BC institution. Beyond that Its about supporting youth employment and countless small businesses that rely on the PNE Fair,” said PNE President Mike McDaniel in a statement.
The low attendance numbers are another tough blow for the fair, which lost its charitable status this year due to a paperwork work error.
The first five days of the Fair had a combined attendance of 238,530, about ten per cent above the average so far this weekend.
But the August 29 windstorm, which left more 710,000 customers without power, caused the fair to shut down for an hour on Saturday. Subsequent poor weather since then has also depressed attendance.
People will still need to purchase tickets if they wish to go on any of the rides.