A midway that's coming to town next month is being billed as the replacement for Ottawa's SuperEX.
Midway Magic will set up in the parking lot of Ottawa's baseball stadium on Coventry Road, east of the downtown core, from Aug. 19-28. Admission will be free.
The fair will include dozens of rides, games, a petting zoo, food vendors and even concerts.
A former organizer of SuperEX is behind the midway. He says Ottawa needs a summer fair.
"There were lots of people who went to that fair and who were loyal to it. We owe it to them," organizer Joe Pavia told CTV Ottawa on Tuesday.
SuperEX was cancelled earlier this year because of a combination of a lack of funds, as well as the Lansdowne redevelopment plan. The fair had been held at Lansdowne Park since 1888.
However, unlike the SuperEX, the city won't be giving any money to Midway Magic.
"Obviously the kids would be happy to have the amusement rides back, but obviously the city doesn't have the money to subsidize a carnival or a midway," said Mayor Jim Watson. "So, if someone can do it in the private sector, then good for them."
Although admission to the fair will be free, tickets need to be purchased to go on rides. Those looking to buy tickets early can purchase an all-day ride pass for $20 plus tax at participating Quickie convenience stores in Ottawa between Aug. 2 and Aug. 18.
On-site passes will be available starting Aug. 19 for $35. Tickets for individual rides will be sold on site as well.
The midway will be provided by World's Finest Shows, a company that brought rides to Lansdowne Park for the last 14 years.
With a report from CTV Ottawa's Ellen Mauro
