About the Fair

A Proud Orillia & Oro-Medonte Tradition Celebrating Agriculture, Homecraft & Community Spirit Since 1853

The Orillia Fall Fair, proudly presented by the Orillia & District Agricultural Society, has been a cherished celebration in the Orillia–Oro-Medonte region since 1853. For more than 170 years, the fair has brought together families, farmers, neighbours, and visitors to honour agricultural excellence, homecraft traditions, and the community values that define this vibrant part of Simcoe County.

A Fair Rooted in Early Pioneer Settlement & Farm Life

The fair began at a time when Orillia and the surrounding townships were rapidly developing rural communities. Agricultural societies played a vital role in these early years, supporting farmers with education, livestock improvement, and opportunities to gather and strengthen local ties.

Early fairs featured livestock judging, crop competitions, handmade crafts, preserves, sewing and needlework, and demonstrations of essential pioneer skills. Many of these original elements remain proudly showcased in today’s fair.

Agriculture at the Centre of the Orillia Fall Fair

Agriculture continues to be the fair’s foundation, reflected in a wide range of exhibits that highlight the skill and dedication of Simcoe County’s farm families:

• Dairy and beef cattle
• Sheep, goats, and poultry
• Field crops, garden vegetables & agricultural produce
• Woodworking, homesteading crafts, and rural skills

Homecraft categories, baking, preserves, quilting, sewing, knitting, floriculture, arts, photography, and junior competitions, celebrate the creativity and practical traditions central to rural life.

Youth Engagement & Generational Pride

Young people have always been a key part of the Orillia Fall Fair. Through 4-H clubs, junior exhibits, school displays, and agricultural education programs, youth build:

• Leadership
• Practical farm and homecraft skills
• Confidence and creativity
• Agricultural awareness
• A connection to local heritage

Generations of families, grandparents, parents, and children, continue to participate, keeping traditions vibrant and meaningful.

Powered by Volunteers & Community Support

The Orillia & District Agricultural Society and its dedicated volunteers work tirelessly throughout the year to support the fair. Their efforts, organizing divisions, preparing grounds, welcoming exhibitors, and maintaining longstanding traditions, reflect the community pride that defines the Orillia region.

A Celebration of Rural Identity in Simcoe County

The Orillia Fall Fair proudly showcases:

• Agricultural skill and excellence
• Creative homecraft traditions
• Youth involvement
• Volunteer dedication
• Generational heritage
• Community collaboration

A Tradition That Endures

More than 170 years after its founding, the Orillia Fall Fair remains a beloved celebration, honouring the agricultural roots, creative energy, and community spirit that continue to enrich Orillia and the surrounding rural region.

About the Community

Orillia, Ontario: A Charming Lakeside City Where Heritage, Creativity & Lake Country Beauty Come Together

Nestled between Lake Couchiching and Lake Simcoe, Orillia is one of Ontario’s most picturesque and spirited communities. Known for its lakeside scenery, cultural vibrancy, historic charm, and welcoming atmosphere, Orillia blends small-city warmth with outdoor beauty and strong rural connections.

A Community Built on Waterways, Trade & Early Industry

Orillia’s history stretches back to the mid-1800s, when its strategic location between two lakes made it a hub for transportation, milling, and trade. The arrival of railways and steady agricultural settlement shaped the city into a thriving commercial and cultural centre.

Historic sites, heritage streetscapes, and preserved landmarks still echo Orillia’s early growth and entrepreneurial spirit.

A Landscape Defined by Lakes, Trails & Natural Beauty

Orillia is surrounded by some of Ontario’s most scenic natural assets:

• The sparkling waters of Lake Simcoe & Lake Couchiching
• Forested trails and nature reserves
• Waterfront parks and public beaches
• The Lightfoot Trail system
• Rolling countryside and farmland just minutes away

This blend of urban charm and natural beauty makes Orillia a standout Lake Country destination.

A Community Rich in Culture, Creativity & Local Spirit

Orillia is known for its lively cultural scene and strong community involvement:

• The Orillia Opera House & museums
• Festivals, concerts & artisan markets
• Local shops, cafés & historic downtown
• Recreational programs and waterfront activities
• Long-standing agricultural and rural traditions

This vibrant cultural landscape helps shape the city’s unique identity.

Heritage Preserved Across Generations

Orillia honours its past through:

• Preserved Victorian and Edwardian buildings
• Local museums, archives & storytelling traditions
• Historic neighbourhoods and waterfront heritage
• Deep rural connections to nearby farms and townships

These elements create a strong sense of place and continuity.

Agricultural Roots Still Run Deep

Although Orillia has grown into a dynamic small city, the surrounding region remains strongly connected to:

• Dairy and livestock farming
• Cash crops and mixed agricultural operations
• Market gardens & rural producers

This agricultural heritage is celebrated each year at the Orillia Fall Fair, one of the region’s longest-standing traditions.

A Natural Companion to the Orillia Fall Fair

Together, the city and its fair highlight:

• Rural heritage
• Creative and homecraft traditions
• Youth and community engagement
• Generational pride
• The harmony of lakeside living and agricultural tradition

A Lakeside Community Where Heritage & Creativity Flourish

Whether strolling along the waterfront, exploring scenic trails, enjoying local arts, or celebrating cherished traditions like the Orillia Fall Fair, Orillia offers a memorable Lake Country experience, where natural beauty, heritage, and community pride come together beautifully.