About the Fair

A Severn Township Tradition Celebrating Agriculture, Homecraft & Community Spirit Since 1890

The Coldwater Fall Fair, proudly hosted by the Coldwater Agricultural Society, has been one of Severn Township’s most treasured rural celebrations since 1890. For more than 130 years, the fair has brought together farm families, neighbours, and visitors to honour agricultural excellence, homecraft traditions, and the enduring community spirit that defines Coldwater and the surrounding region.

A Fair Rooted in Rural Settlement & Community Strength

The fair began during a time when Coldwater was a developing village surrounded by farms, mills, and small industries. Agricultural societies played a vital role in early community life, supporting farmers, improving livestock quality, sharing knowledge, and fostering a sense of unity.

Early Coldwater fairs featured livestock judging, field crop competitions, preserves, quilting, sewing, and demonstrations of homesteading skills. Many of these traditions remain the heart of today’s fair.

Agriculture at the Heart of the Coldwater Fall Fair

Agriculture continues to be the fair’s foundation, proudly displayed in exhibitions featuring:

• Dairy and beef cattle
• Sheep, goats, poultry, and small livestock
• Field crops, grain, hay, vegetables, and garden produce
• Woodworking, rural crafts, and homesteading demonstrations

These exhibits reflect the skill, dedication, and perseverance of generations of farmers across Severn Township and the surrounding area.

The homecraft divisions, including baking, preserves, sewing, quilting, knitting, floriculture, photography, arts, and junior classes, celebrate the domestic creativity and rural craftsmanship that define community life.

Youth Participation & Generational Pride

Youth involvement is a cornerstone of the Coldwater Fall Fair. Through 4-H clubs, junior divisions, school exhibits, and agricultural learning opportunities, young people develop:

• Leadership
• Practical agricultural and homecraft skills
• Confidence and creativity
• Teamwork and responsibility
• A meaningful connection to rural heritage

Generational participation, often with grandparents, parents, and children all involved—keeps the fair vibrant and deeply rooted.

Fueled by Volunteers & Community Dedication

The Coldwater Agricultural Society, supported by many committed volunteers, works tirelessly to organize and promote the fair. Their efforts, maintaining grounds, coordinating exhibits, supporting participants, and celebrating community heritage, reflect the strong spirit of collaboration that defines Coldwater.

A Celebration of Severn Township’s Rural Identity

The Coldwater Fall Fair proudly showcases the region’s most enduring values:

• Agricultural excellence
• Creative homecraft traditions
• Youth involvement
• Volunteer leadership
• Generational continuity
• Strong community pride

A Tradition That Endures

More than 130 years after its founding, the Coldwater Fall Fair remains a cherished celebration, honouring the agricultural roots, creative spirit, and community strength that continue to enrich Coldwater and rural Severn Township.

About the Community

Coldwater, Ontario: A Charming Severn Township Community Where Heritage, Waterways & Village Spirit Shine

Located along the scenic Coldwater River, Coldwater is a picturesque and welcoming village in Severn Township, known for its heritage charm, waterways, and strong sense of community. With historic storefronts, natural beauty, and deep rural roots, Coldwater offers the perfect blend of small-town warmth and timeless Ontario character.

A Community Built on Rivers, Mills & Pioneer Settlement

Coldwater’s history reaches back to the early 1800s, when mills, trading posts, and later the Coldwater Road (a key travel route through the region) helped establish the village as an important hub for area settlers. Shops, farms, and local industries soon grew around the developing community.

Historic buildings, stone storefronts, and early homes still reflect Coldwater’s pioneer-era beginnings.

A Landscape of Waterways, Forests & Classic Countryside

Coldwater is surrounded by a blend of natural beauty and rural landscape, including:

• The winding Coldwater River
• Forested trails and wildlife-rich areas
• Rolling farmland and pasture
• Quiet country roads and scenic concessions
• Access to lakes, wetlands, and natural lookout points

This combination of water, countryside, and woodland gives the village its distinctive charm.

A Community Defined by Local Pride & Active Involvement

Coldwater residents are known for their strong community spirit. They support:

• Local shops and artisan businesses
• Service clubs and volunteer organizations
• Recreation programs and youth activities
• Cultural and heritage celebrations
• Agricultural and rural traditions

Annual events such as the Coldwater Steampunk Festival highlight the village’s creative and welcoming character.

Heritage Preserved Through Generations

Coldwater’s historical identity is kept alive through:

• Restored heritage buildings
• Historic plaques, walking tours & museums
• Multi-generational family stories
• Traditions rooted in agriculture and village life

These heritage features enrich the community’s identity and sense of place.

Agriculture Remains Central to the Region

The rural surroundings continue to support a strong agricultural base, including:

• Dairy and beef farming
• Cash crops
• Mixed livestock operations
• Market gardens and small producers

This agricultural heritage is celebrated each year at the Coldwater Fall Fair, one of the village’s most enduring community traditions.

A Natural Companion to the Coldwater Fall Fair

Together, Coldwater and its fair highlight:

• Rural heritage
• Youth involvement
• Homecraft excellence
• Volunteer commitment
• Generational pride
• Community connection

A Community Where Waterways, Heritage & Rural Warmth Flourish

Whether strolling along the river, exploring historic downtown shops, visiting nearby farms, or celebrating beloved traditions like the Coldwater Fall Fair, Coldwater offers a memorable Severn Township experience, where natural beauty, heritage, and community spirit come together beautifully.