About the Fair

A Proud Huron County Tradition Celebrating Agriculture, Homecraft & Community Spirit Since 1857

The Howick–Turnberry Fall Fair, presented by the Howick Agricultural Society, is one of Huron County’s most enduring rural traditions. First held in 1857, the fair has brought together residents of Howick Township, the communities of Gorrie, Wroxeter, and Fordwich, and neighbouring Turnberry for more than 165 years. Today, it continues to honour the farm families, creative artisans, and volunteer spirit that define this rural region.

A Fair Rooted in Pioneer Farming & Township Cooperation

The fair began when early settlers were building farms and establishing rural centres across the Howick and Turnberry area. Agricultural societies served as the lifeblood of these communities, helping families improve livestock, share new farming methods, and strengthen community ties.

Early fairs featured livestock competitions, grain and hay exhibits, garden produce, preserves, quilts, crafts, and demonstrations of the everyday skills essential to pioneer survival. These deep-rooted traditions remain at the heart of the fair today.

Agriculture at the Heart of the Howick–Turnberry Fall Fair

Agriculture has always been the foundation of the fair and continues to be proudly showcased through:

• Dairy and beef cattle
• Sheep, goats, poultry, and small livestock
• Grain, hay, field crops, vegetables, and garden produce
• Woodworking, rural crafts, and traditional homesteading skills

These displays reflect the resilience, knowledge, and excellence of farm families who have shaped the region for generations.

The homecraft divisions, including baking, preserves, sewing, quilting, knitting, floriculture, photography, and junior categories, highlight the domestic artistry that remains a treasured part of rural life.

Youth Participation & Generational Strength

Youth involvement is an essential part of the fair. Through 4-H clubs, junior categories, school exhibits, and agricultural education opportunities, young people develop:

• Leadership and teamwork
• Farm and homecraft skills
• Creativity and confidence
• Agricultural literacy
• A strong sense of rural identity

Generational participation is a hallmark of the fair, with many families contributing for decades.

Sustained by Volunteers & Community Spirit

The Howick Agricultural Society, supported by an energetic network of volunteers, works tirelessly to preserve the fair’s long history. Their dedication, planning exhibits, maintaining grounds, supporting participants, and celebrating heritage, reflects the strong community spirit that defines Howick Township and its neighbouring areas.

A Celebration of Northern Huron County’s Rural Identity

The Howick–Turnberry Fall Fair showcases the region’s most enduring values:

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

A Tradition That Endures

Through more than a century and a half of change, the Howick–Turnberry Fall Fair remains a cherished celebration, honouring the agricultural roots, creativity, and community spirit that continue to enrich northern Huron County.

About the Community

Gorrie, Ontario: A Friendly Howick Township Community Rooted in Farmland, Heritage & Rural Fellowship

Located in Howick Township in northern Huron County, Gorrie is a warm and welcoming rural community known for its agricultural heritage, close-knit atmosphere, and small-town charm. Surrounded by fertile fields, winding creeks, and scenic backroads, Gorrie embodies the quiet beauty and enduring spirit of rural Ontario.

A Community Built on Mills, Farming & Early Industry

Gorrie traces its origins to the mid-1800s, when mills along the Maitland River and nearby waterways helped draw settlers to the area. Farms expanded quickly across the region, supported by general stores, blacksmith shops, churches, and early schools that served the surrounding countryside.

Today, Gorrie’s historic homes, rural properties, and heritage landmarks still reflect the industrious spirit of its early years.

A Scenic Landscape of Fields, Creeks & Quiet Country Roads

Gorrie is surrounded by the characteristic scenery of northern Huron County:

• Productive fields and pasturelands
• Woodlots and natural wildlife corridors
• Meandering creeks and tributaries
• Peaceful backroads ideal for country drives
• Rolling landscapes dotted with family farms

This inviting natural setting adds warmth and tranquillity to daily life in the community.

A Community Defined by Involvement & Rural Solidarity

Gorrie is known for its strong sense of community connection. Residents proudly support:

• Agricultural and rural organizations
• Service clubs and volunteer groups
• Youth sports, recreation, and community halls
• Local heritage and cultural initiatives
• Seasonal celebrations and long-loved traditions

This spirit of participation gives Gorrie a welcoming and resilient character.

Heritage Preserved Through Generations

The community’s history is carried forward through:

• Century farms
• Long-standing family names
• Historic buildings and rural landmarks
• Stories passed down through generations
• Local traditions rooted in farm and village life

These heritage elements help maintain Gorrie’s sense of identity and pride.

Agriculture Remains Central to Local Life

The surrounding region continues to support a strong agricultural economy, including:

• Dairy and beef farming
• Corn, soybeans, and grain crops
• Mixed livestock operations
• Rural artisans and small-scale producers

This agricultural foundation is proudly celebrated each year at the Howick–Turnberry Fall Fair, one of the area’s most cherished community events.

A Natural Companion to the Howick–Turnberry Fall Fair

Together, Gorrie and its fair highlight the region’s strongest qualities:

• Rural heritage
• Youth engagement
• Volunteer strength
• Homecraft creativity
• Generational continuity
• Community unity

A Community Where Heritage, Farmland & Local Connections Flourish

Whether travelling its peaceful backroads, enjoying its rural scenery, visiting long-established farms, or celebrating beloved traditions like the Howick–Turnberry Fall Fair, Gorrie offers a warm and memorable Huron County experience, where heritage, countryside charm, and community pride come together beautifully.