Selwyn Family Fun: Country Markets, Fêtes and Events

Round up the kids, it’s time to get out, enjoy the sunshine and have some fun at the summer's best country events in Selwyn.  Tomato sauce-clad toddlers, fairground rides for the kids, tastings of Selwyn's best boutique sellers for the foodies and homegrown entertainment, not to mention great community spirit - it’s great wholesome family fun at the grass roots.

The best thing about the country fairs, fêtes and markets, is there really is something for everyone.  It’s a real family affair.  Locals gather for their catch-ups and share local produce and the stories of the land and their businesses with newcomers.  It’s everything you need, without having the issue of finding a carpark.

Hororata Spring Fair: Annual Event in October

The Hororata Spring Fair raises money for the local church, so you know the money is going back to the community.  Spring for a tasty sausage or local burger for their fundraising efforts.

While a small event, it is a lot of fun.  A hit for the kids in 2020 was the free archery which saw kids turn into commando warriors (face protection provided) as they ran behind inflatable shields, trying not to be hit by the soft arrows.  The kids just loved being able to have a go, both at shooting and being a target.

Perhaps the most fun event of the day was the second-hand auction.  It was the most kiwi auction that has ever existed, where winners also received items you hadn’t even bid on.

The Hororata Spring Fair is a great way for the community to repurpose unused furniture. Prices starting at a steep $2 meant people were getting an absolute bargain, as well as a restoration project for them to work on over summer.

The Hororata Spring Fair: Come for a sausage, go home with an heirloom chair. Head to the Parish Facebook page for Spring Fair updates and announcements.

Hororata Highland Games: Annual Event in November

If you are planning to head to one family event this year, make it the Hororata Highland Games.  An incredible day out celebrating all that is Scottish. 

There is no faster way to create a connection than by giving things a go.  The kids can toss a caber and try out all sorts of Highland games activities, just like the strongman competitors competing on the day. 

Kids will also love the medieval sword fights, and getting up close with a real bow and arrow.  Another fan favourite is watching hilarious events such as the Kilted Mile. Runners wearing kilts have to dash around a course, while also taking part at scheduled pit-stops to eat a pie or finish their drink as fast as they can. 

You can also listen to pipe bands and and support the Highland Games competitors as they compete.

Bring a picnic and nab a spot for the day, or try some haggis and other great local produce.  Get a jump on your Christmas shopping and shop in the market area to support locals and give a truly unique gift this year.

 Stay up to date with Hororata Highland Games announcements here.

Courtenay A&P Show: Annual Event in November

The Courtenay A&P Show is held every November in Kirwee, just 20 minutes from Christchurch and is a great country event.  If you haven’t been to an A&P show before, it’s an event where local animals compete for coveted titles such as the best cow in their breed. 

There are often other competitions such as showjumping, baking and vegetable growing. Enjoy a day of family fun at market stalls, trade stands, fairground games/rides and food as well as live entertainment.  Finish off the day at the Grand Parade and an old school lolly scramble.

The kids will love climbing up on giant tractors, taking a ride on a historic fire engine and of course an ice cream and a sausage for good measure. If your kids are into animals, then they will love being able to hold a bunny and pat the lambs.  Do remember to bring your gumboots if it has been raining.

Get the latest Courtenay A&P Show news and announcements here.

Interested in more family events coming up in Selwyn?