About the Fair

A Lambton County Harvest Tradition Celebrating Agriculture, Homecraft & Community Spirit Since 1850

The Brigden Fair, proudly hosted by the Moore Agricultural Society, has been a treasured Lambton County celebration since 1850. Held every Thanksgiving weekend, it stands as one of Ontario’s most iconic fall fairs—uniting families, farmers, and visitors in a spirited showcase of agricultural excellence, homecraft creativity, and deep community pride.

A Fair Rooted in Rural Heritage & Community Tradition

The Brigden Fair began at a time when Moore Township was a bustling rural community supported by family farms, grist mills, small shops, and local trades. Agricultural societies were central to those early years—helping farmers improve livestock, share knowledge, and strengthen connections across the region.

Early fairs featured livestock judging, grain and vegetable exhibits, preserves, quilts, needlework, and demonstrations of essential homesteading skills. While the fair has grown in scale and reputation, these foundational elements remain at its heart.

Agriculture at the Heart of the Brigden Fair

Agriculture continues to define the fair, showcased through a wide range of traditional and modern exhibits:

• Dairy and beef cattle
• Sheep, goats, poultry & small livestock
• Field crops, hay, grain, vegetables & garden produce
• Honey, maple products & rural homesteading skills
• Woodworking, rural crafts & farm-inspired creativity

These displays honour the families who have shaped the rural landscape of Lambton County for generations.

The homecraft divisions, including baking, preserves, sewing, quilting, knitting, floriculture, photography, arts, and junior classes, celebrate the domestic creativity and craftsmanship that remain an essential part of community life.

Youth Engagement & Generational Strength

The Brigden Fair takes pride in its strong youth involvement. Through 4-H clubs, school displays, junior competitions, and agricultural education opportunities, young people gain:

• Leadership and responsibility
• Practical farm and homemaking skills
• Confidence and creativity
• Agricultural literacy
• A deep connection to their community’s heritage

Families often participate across multiple generations, creating traditions that have lasted more than 170 years.

Guided by Volunteers & Community Spirit

The Moore Agricultural Society, supported by a dedicated volunteer team, works tirelessly year-round to plan and host the fair. Their efforts—organizing competitions, preparing grounds, supporting exhibitors, and honouring rural heritage, reflect the enduring community spirit that defines Brigden.

A Celebration of Lambton County’s Rural Identity

The Brigden Fair proudly showcases:

• Agricultural excellence
• Homecraft and creative traditions
• Youth participation
• Volunteer leadership
• Generational pride
• Community unity

A Tradition That Endures

More than 170 years after its founding, the Brigden Fair remains a beloved Thanksgiving celebration, honouring agricultural roots, creative expression, and the enduring community spirit of Brigden and rural Lambton County.

About the Community.

Brigden, Ontario: A Friendly Lambton Community Where Agriculture, Heritage & Small-Town Spirit Shine

Located in St. Clair Township, Brigden is a warm and welcoming rural community known for its agricultural roots, heritage charm, and strong sense of local pride. With its peaceful landscape, community-minded residents, and long-standing traditions, Brigden is a true reflection of Lambton County’s rural heart.

A Community Formed by Early Settlement & Farming Tradition

Brigden began in the mid-1800s as a small rural settlement, supported by surrounding farms, local trades, and essential services that brought people together. Over time, feed mills, general stores, blacksmiths, and early schools helped Brigden develop into a close-knit community.

Many heritage homes, long-standing family farms, and traditional rural buildings still reflect Brigden’s early pioneer origins.

A Landscape of Fields, Woodlots & Classic Lambton Countryside

Brigden is surrounded by the peaceful, productive farmland typical of Lambton County:

• Rolling fields and open meadows
• Hay, corn, soybean, and grain operations
• Woodlots and natural wildlife corridors
• Quiet concession roads perfect for scenic drives
• Beautiful rural views stretching in every direction

This tranquil setting is part of what defines everyday life in Brigden.

A Community Defined by Involvement, Pride & Tradition

Brigden residents are deeply involved in community life and contribute to:

• Local businesses and family-run enterprises
• Service clubs and volunteer organizations
• Youth sports and recreation programs
• Agricultural groups and rural associations
• Seasonal celebrations and long-standing traditions

This spirit of involvement makes Brigden a warm and welcoming place to live and visit.

Heritage Preserved Through Generations

The community proudly honours its history through:

• Century farms and generational land stewardship
• Rural museums and heritage displays
• Community archives and local storytelling
• Traditions tied to agriculture and country living

These elements strengthen Brigden’s identity and preserve its rural roots.

Agriculture Remains a Cornerstone of Local Life

The region surrounding Brigden supports a strong agricultural base including:

• Dairy and beef farms
• Cash crop producers
• Mixed livestock operations
• Market gardens and local artisans

This agricultural tradition is celebrated each year at the Brigden Fair, one of the region’s longest-standing and most beloved events.

A Natural Companion to the Brigden Fair

Together, Brigden and its fair highlight:

• Rural heritage
• Youth engagement
• Homecraft and creative excellence
• Volunteer dedication
• Generational continuity
• Strong community pride

A Community Where Heritage & Rural Spirit Flourish

Whether exploring country roads, visiting local farms, enjoying village events, or celebrating cherished traditions like the Brigden Fair, Brigden offers a classic Lambton County experience, where heritage, agriculture, and community warmth come together beautifully.