THUNDER BAY – Thousands made their way to the CLE grounds for the last day of one of Northwestern Ontario's most popular summer events on Sunday.
CLE spokesperson Tracey Larocque said the weather didn't really dampen anyone's spirits.
“Considering that we've had a little bit of rain, I think our numbers are comparable to what they have been in the last couple of years. There are usually anywhere between 50 to 60,000 people who will come through these gates."
Laroque said the rides really draw people in, as well as the other attractions they have.
“I think it's a mix of everything. It's definitely the rides. When they first start pulling in a week ahead of time and people start seeing the Ferris wheel and the rides go up, that's really what's drawing everybody here.
“But of course, they're coming for the food, they're coming for the magician and the hypnotist and the entertainment at the end of the night.
On Sunday night, they had a Kiss tribute band on stage, which Laroque called the number one tribute band in Canada.
In addition to the rides, the carnival games, food, exhibits, vendors and main stage entertainment the buildings on the CLE grounds also had a lot going on.
“In the heritage building, there's all the animals, but there's also line dancing going on,” she said.
Laroque said the event takes a lot of planning that starts sooner than you may think.
“Literally, we sit down with Select Shows and Canuck amusements here (Monday) to start planning for next year. It's a whole year work of planning and organizing and then it'll be shortly getting all the entertainment organized for the following year.
The excitement on Sunday was contagious as kids, teens, and adults rushed around to get on the zipper, ring of fire, g-force and other favourite rides for the last time.
Six-year-old Grace visited the CLE for the first time on Saturday and Sunday.
She loved the rides and said the corn dog she tried tasted awesome.
“I’m having a great time. The CLE is a good place to play and go on rides,” she said.
Daniel Chabluk said the CLE has been great.
“I'm always partial to the sea ray every year but I just went on the g-force - and I'm still feeling it. The food's always great too. That's another big selling point for me.
“It's always fun. I come every year and it's great. Just seeing everybody get together and having fun, it's a family fair, so getting the family together and having a good time, it never gets old,” he said.
