2. What is a Heritage Fair? Students use a medium of their choice to tell stories about Canadian heroes, legends, milestones, and achievements and present the results of their research at a public exhibition.

3. Fairs begin as hands-on classroom projects. Students research an area of Canadian history, often of local or family interest, and present their discoveries using the medium of their choice. Student presentations range from tabletop dioramas to performance pieces to web-based projects.

4. History of the Heritage Fair Since its beginning in 1993, the Fairs Program has grown to include more than 250,000 students from coast to coast to coast in Canada each year – 50,000 in Ontario. In the long term, it is the goal of the Ontario Heritage Fairs Association that every eligible student in Ontario will have the opportunity to participate in a Fair or an on-line Fair Showcase during his or her years at school.

5. Our goal is to convey enthusiasm, creativity and a passion for History. The result is a community-based celebration of Canadian heritage that has a lasting impact on participants.

6. Waterloo Region Heritage Fair 2012

7. Why Participate? The Fairs Program supports existing curricula and encourages a cross- curricular approach to teaching and learning. Heritage Fairs give students the chance to share their own ideas and voices, thereby building student ownership of Canadian History. The emphasis on communication skills such as researching, interviewing, writing, editing, and speaking will benefit all students throughout their life.

8. Why Participate? As young people develop stronger roots in their communities, they will have the confidence to become active citizens who shape the future of our region, province and country. The Heritage Fairs Program provides an opportunity for heritage groups to recruit the next generation by helping to show that the study of history can be fun and a life-long pursuit!

9. Get Involved! Students: The Heritage Fairs Program is designed for students in grades 4 to 10 Volunteers: We are looking for volunteers from the heritage sectors to help with organizing and coordinating the Waterloo Region Fair. Sponsorship & Awards: There are many opportunities for heritage groups to sponsor the fair with an award, plaques, books, money, etc.

10. 519-748-1914 dneufeld@regionofwaterloo.ca David Neufeld Waterloo Region Museum

11. Or visit our websites: www.waterlooregionmuseum.com www.ohfa.ca