About the Exhibition

A Simcoe County Tradition Celebrating Agriculture, Homecraft & Community Spirit Since 1855

The Great Northern Exhibition (GNE), hosted by the Collingwood Agricultural Society, the Stayner Agricultural Society, and the Wasaga Beach Agricultural Society, is one of Simcoe County’s most cherished rural traditions. First held in 1855, the GNE unites several communities, Collingwood, Clearview Township, and Wasaga Beach, through a shared celebration of agriculture, creativity, and local heritage.

For more than 165 years, the fair has showcased the skills of farm families, homecraft exhibitors, rural artisans, and youth, all while preserving the values that continue to define northern Simcoe County.

A Fair Rooted in Early Settlement & Shared Regional Identity

The origins of the GNE date back to the days when pioneer families were establishing farms and mills along the shores of Georgian Bay and across the fertile lands of Nottawasaga Township. Agricultural societies formed to help farmers improve livestock, share new farming techniques, and build a sense of unity across nearby communities.

These early fairs quickly became annual highlights, featuring livestock competitions, crop displays, handcrafted goods, preserves, quilting, and demonstrations of everyday homestead skills, traditions that continue to be celebrated at the GNE.

Agriculture at the Heart of the Great Northern Exhibition

While the region has grown and diversified over the decades, the GNE proudly places agriculture at the center of its programming. Exhibits include:

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

These displays reflect the long-standing dedication of Simcoe County farm families and agricultural leaders.

The homecraft divisions, baking, preserves, sewing, quilting, knitting, floriculture, photography, art, and junior categories, celebrate the creative talents and domestic traditions that enrich rural life.

Youth Engagement & Generational Continuity

Youth participation has always been a core pillar of the GNE. Through 4-H clubs, junior competitions, school exhibits, and agricultural learning opportunities, young people gain:

• Leadership and teamwork
• Hands-on farm and homecraft skills
• Confidence and creativity
• Agricultural understanding
• A deeper connection to community heritage

Generational involvement remains one of the GNE’s greatest strengths, as families proudly contribute year after year.

Powered by Volunteers & Regional Collaboration

The Great Northern Exhibition is unique in Ontario: it is supported by three agricultural societies, each representing a different community. Their combined volunteer efforts, organizing exhibits, maintaining grounds, supporting participants, and celebrating local heritage, reflect the collaborative spirit that makes the GNE truly special.

A Celebration of Northern Simcoe County’s Rural Identity

The GNE highlights the region’s most enduring values:

• Agricultural excellence
• Creative homecraft traditions
• Youth involvement
• Volunteer leadership
• Regional unity
• Community pride

A Tradition That Endures

More than a century and a half after its founding, the Great Northern Exhibition continues to honour the agricultural roots, creativity, and community spirit that connect Collingwood, Clearview Township, and Wasaga Beach.

 

About the Township

Clearview Township: A Scenic Simcoe County Community Where Countryside Charm, Heritage & Rural Spirit Flourish

Stretching from the base of the Niagara Escarpment to the fertile fields of southern Georgian Bay, Clearview Township is a vibrant rural community known for its agricultural heritage, natural beauty, and friendly small-town character. Formed through the amalgamation of Creemore, Stayner, Sunnidale, and Nottawasaga Township communities, Clearview blends historic roots with welcoming modern growth.

A Community Rich in Heritage & Local Storytelling

Clearview’s communities have deep historical foundations. Stayner grew as a mill and railway town. Creemore became known for its early manufacturing, cultural charm, and now its world-famous craft brewery. Nottawasaga’s farmlands were shaped by generations of hardworking agricultural families.

Historic buildings, early streetscapes, churches, and century farms still reflect the region’s pioneer origins.

A Landscape of Rolling Hills, Farmland & Escarpment Views

Clearview is celebrated for its striking natural scenery:

• Rolling agricultural land
• Quiet concession roads
• Escarpment vistas and lookout points
• Forests, creeks, and wildlife corridors
• Picturesque rural villages and hamlets

This blend of scenic beauty and pastoral landscape creates one of Simcoe County’s most inviting rural environments.

A Community Built on Involvement, Creativity & Local Pride

Clearview residents are known for their strong community engagement, supporting:

• Agricultural organizations
• Arts, music, and cultural events
• Recreation and sporting groups
• Heritage committees and local museums
• Seasonal celebrations and long-loved traditions

This spirit of participation gives each Clearview community a warm and welcoming character.

Heritage Preserved Through Generations

Clearview honours its past through:

• Century homes and farms
• Historic main streets
• Community archives and storytelling projects
• Multi-generational family histories
• Long-standing rural traditions

These elements provide a deep sense of place and continuity.

Agriculture at the Heart of Clearview Township

Farming remains a defining feature of the region, with:

• Dairy and beef operations
• Cash crops including corn, wheat, and soybeans
• Mixed livestock operations
• Market gardens and specialty producers
• Rural artisans, bakers, and homesteaders

This strong agricultural heritage is proudly celebrated each year at the Great Northern Exhibition, one of the region’s most important cultural and agricultural events.

A Natural Companion to the Great Northern Exhibition

Clearview Township and the GNE highlight shared values:

• Rural heritage
• Youth involvement
• Homecraft excellence
• Volunteer dedication
• Generational continuity
• Strong regional unity

A Community Where Countryside Beauty & Rural Heritage Thrive Together

Whether exploring scenic backroads, strolling through charming main streets, visiting local farms, or celebrating beloved traditions like the Great Northern Exhibition, Clearview Township offers a memorable Simcoe County experience, where heritage, landscape, and community spirit come together beautifully.