About the Fair

A Lanark County Tradition Celebrating Agriculture, Craftsmanship & Rural Community Spirit

The Maberly Fair, presented by the Maberly Agricultural Society, is one of Lanark County’s longstanding rural celebrations. Rooted in a history that stretches back to the late 19th century, the fair continues to honour agricultural heritage, homecraft traditions, and the enduring community spirit that defines Maberly and the surrounding townships.

A Fair Founded on Rural Tradition

The Maberly Fair began during a time when agricultural societies across Ontario were being formed to support farmers, encourage agricultural learning, and strengthen rural communities. With its surrounding farms, early mills, and thriving homesteads, Maberly was a natural gathering place for a local exhibition.

Early fairs featured livestock judging, field crop showcases, vegetable and produce competitions, and displays of domestic arts—all essential elements of rural pioneer life. These events offered residents the chance to share skills, celebrate accomplishments, and reinforce community connections.

Agriculture Remains the Heart of the Fair

Agriculture continues to guide the Maberly Fair today. Exhibits highlight the resilience and creativity of local farm families:

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

These exhibits honour the farming roots that have shaped life in Lanark County for generations.

Homecraft divisions, featuring preserves, baking, sewing, knitting, quilting, floriculture, photography, and junior entries, remain a central part of the fair, reflecting the domestic arts that have flourished in rural Ontario homes.

Youth Participation & Generational Continuity

The Maberly Fair places strong emphasis on youth involvement. Through junior categories, 4-H programs, school entries, and hands-on agricultural learning, local youth develop:

• Leadership abilities
• Practical and creative skills
• Agricultural awareness
• A strong sense of heritage
• Pride in community traditions

Many families have supported the fair for generations, making it an important part of Maberly’s cultural identity.

Fuelled by Volunteers & Community Dedication

The Maberly Agricultural Society and its volunteers ensure the fair’s continued success. Their year-round efforts, organizing exhibits, preparing fairgrounds, preserving records, and inspiring participation, reflect the cooperative spirit for which Lanark County is known.

A Celebration of Rural Heritage

The fair embodies the community’s strongest values:

• Agricultural excellence
• Homecraft creativity
• Youth engagement
• Volunteer leadership
• Multigenerational traditions
• Strong community pride

These qualities have helped sustain the Maberly Fair as one of the region’s most cherished rural events.

A Tradition That Endures

Through decades of change, the Maberly Fair remains a proud celebration of agriculture, creativity, and community spirit, linking the village’s past with its continuing rural story.

About the Community

Maberly, Ontario: A Scenic Lanark County Hamlet Rooted in Heritage, Farmland & Quiet Rural Living

Located along Highway 7 in the heart of Lanark County, Maberly, Ontario is a peaceful rural hamlet known for its scenic beauty, strong agricultural roots, and welcoming community spirit. Surrounded by forests, lakes, and farmland, Maberly offers a blend of natural charm and rural tradition that reflects the best of Eastern Ontario countryside living.

A Hamlet with Deep Rural Roots

Maberly’s history stretches back to the 1800s, when early settlers established farms, mills, and homesteads along what would become a key travel route through the region. Agriculture, small-scale industry, and community institutions formed the backbone of early life in the village.

Many of the families who helped shape Maberly’s early identity have descendants who still call the area home today, maintaining a direct link to its pioneering past.

A Landscape Shaped by Forests, Lakes & Farmland

Maberly is surrounded by some of Lanark County’s most picturesque rural scenery:

• Thick forests and mixed hardwood stands
• Quiet lakes and waterways nearby
• Pastureland and rolling fields
• Old farmsteads and homestead properties
• Peaceful concession roads connecting rural neighbourhoods

The natural setting creates a tranquil atmosphere that defines daily life in the community.

A Friendly & Community-Focused Hamlet

Despite its small size, Maberly is known for its strong sense of community belonging. Residents participate in:

• Local service and volunteer groups
• Community hall events
• Agricultural and heritage organizations
• Neighbourhood gatherings and seasonal traditions

This close-knit spirit reflects the values of cooperation, friendliness, and rural pride.

A Place Where Heritage Is Appreciated

Maberly maintains its rural history through:

• Longstanding family farms
• Historic buildings and community landmarks
• Stories and traditions passed down through generations
• A village identity shaped by agriculture and nature

This heritage contributes to Maberly’s warm and grounded atmosphere.

Agriculture Remains a Central Part of Life

Local farms contribute greatly to the community’s character. The region is known for:

• Beef and dairy production
• Hay, grain, and field crops
• Mixed livestock operations
• Rural craftsmanship and homesteading skills

This agricultural tradition is celebrated each year at the Maberly Fair, one of the community’s most cherished annual events.

A Natural Companion to the Maberly Fair

The fair reflects the community’s defining qualities:

• Pride in rural heritage
• Youth engagement
• Volunteer leadership
• Homecraft excellence
• Generational involvement
• Strong community unity

Together, Maberly and its fair form a meaningful story of rural life in Lanark County.

A Community Where Nature, Heritage & Rural Spirit Come Together

Whether exploring scenic backroads, connecting with friendly neighbours, enjoying the quiet beauty of the countryside, or celebrating beloved traditions like the Maberly Fair, Maberly offers a memorable rural Ontario experience, rooted in nature, history, and genuine community warmth.