Navan Fair Crowns Baking Queen

When she was just 12 years old, Dominique Deschamps baked a loaf of bread for a contest at the Navan Fair. She won first prize, despite some whispers about whether she had done it all by herself. Well, she certainly did!

Now in her mid-40s, Dominique was back at the fair this Saturday, riding in a convertible, wearing a crown and proudly waving to everyone as this year’s Navan Baking Queen. Her skills in the kitchen have truly shone through, with awards for everything from banana bread to pumpkin pie.

But Dominique isn’t the only one making waves at the fair; her sons, Samuel, Martin, and Vincent Deschamps, all had their names featured among the entries too. Vincent was just one point away from being named Navan’s Baking Prince!

It’s not just about the baking though. The fair, running through the weekend, celebrates community with its mix of agricultural and culinary competitions. It brings families together, as emphasized by Dominique’s mother, Rita Dessaint, who sees this event as a tradition passed down through generations.

On Saturday, hundreds gathered to enjoy the parade, which included everything from pipe bands to cheerleaders. Everyone had something to look forward to, including Al and Thérèse Nadeau, who set up lawn chairs to watch their daughter-in-law’s daughter dance alongside her peers.

There were thrills for the little ones too! Monique Hurtubise mentioned the excitement of her grandchildren rushing ahead to enjoy the carnival rides. It’s all about the joy these fairs bring to kids and families alike.

Amidst the fun was Nate Flynn, a nine-year-old who won a prize in a water-gun game, and his aunt Judy Flynn reminiscing about her own childhood win for the best rhubarb pie over two decades ago.

Adding to the legacy of past winners, Nate’s cousin Bridget Plumadore, who was Navan’s Baking Queen in 2014, reminded everyone of the friendly competition that keeps families baking together.