About the Fair
A Clarington Tradition Celebrating Agriculture, Homecraft & Community Spirit Since 1851
The Orono Fair, presented by the Orono Agricultural Society, is one of Ontario’s oldest and most respected rural exhibitions. First held in 1851, the fair has been a cornerstone of agricultural celebration for generations of families in Orono, Clarington, and Durham Region. For more than 170 years, the Orono Fair has proudly honoured the traditions, skills, and community values that define rural life in the area.
A Fair Born from Early Farming Communities
In the mid-19th century, Orono was a thriving agricultural settlement lined with mills, farms, and small businesses that supported the growing population of Clarke Township. The formation of the Orono Agricultural Society and the creation of its annual fair provided local families a place to gather, share knowledge, celebrate achievements, and strengthen community connections.
In its earliest days, the fair featured livestock judging, grain and vegetable competitions, homecraft displays, and demonstrations of practical rural skills. These gatherings helped improve farming standards and created a sense of pride among settlers building new lives in the region.
Agriculture at the Heart of the Orono Fair
Agriculture remains the foundation of the Orono Fair. Exhibits highlight the region’s farming excellence through:
- Dairy and beef cattle
- Sheep, goats, poultry, and small livestock
- Hay, grain, vegetables, and field crops
- Woodworking, rural crafts, and homestead skills
The fair’s homecraft divisions, including preserves, baking, sewing, knitting, quilting, floriculture, and junior categories, celebrate the creativity and domestic artistry that have long been part of rural life.
Youth Engagement & Generational Involvement
Young people are an essential part of the Orono Fair’s legacy. Through 4-H clubs, school entries, junior classes, and agricultural education programs, youth learn:
- Leadership and responsibility
- Practical farm and homecraft skills
- Agricultural literacy
- Creative expression
- A deep connection to community heritage
Many families have participated in the fair for decades, reflecting its strong generational roots.
Driven by Volunteers & Community Spirit
The Orono Agricultural Society and its volunteers work tirelessly to preserve the fair’s traditions and ensure its success. Their year-round dedication, organizing exhibits, preparing grounds, supporting exhibitors, and upholding the fair’s heritage reflects the cooperative spirit that continues to shape life in Orono and the surrounding rural communities.
A Celebration of Durham Region’s Rural Identity
The Orono Fair embodies the region’s most cherished values:
- Agricultural excellence
- Homecraft creativity
- Youth involvement
- Volunteer leadership
- Generational continuity
- Community pride
A Tradition That Endures
Through growth, change, and the passing of generations, the Orono Fair remains a proud celebration of rural life honouring the traditions that have defined the community since the 1850s.
About the Community
Orono, Ontario: A Historic Durham Region Village Rooted in Heritage, Countryside Beauty & Rural Pride
Located within the Municipality of Clarington in Durham Region, Orono, Ontario is a charming rural village known for its heritage streetscapes, peaceful countryside, and deep community spirit. Surrounded by rolling farmland, wooded valleys, and historic homesteads, Orono offers a timeless small-town atmosphere steeped in tradition.
A Village Built on 19th-Century Settlement
Orono’s origins date back to the early 1800s, when settlers established farms, mills, and small businesses along the fertile lands of Clarke Township. The community grew around its mills, local commerce, nearby railway connections, and strong agricultural base.
Many of Orono’s original buildings, storefronts, and homes still stand today, preserving its historical character and offering glimpses into rural life more than a century ago.
A Landscape of Farmland, Forests & Scenic Routes
The natural setting around Orono showcases the beauty of rural Durham Region:
- Rolling farmland and century farms
- Wooded hills and natural ravines
- The Orono Crown Lands and local trails
- Scenic concession roads and country drive routes
- Peaceful open spaces and wildlife habitats
This rural backdrop gives Orono its calming, picturesque charm.
A Community Built on Connection & Local Spirit
Orono is known for its strong sense of community involvement. Residents support:
- Local service clubs
- Churches and heritage organizations
- Agricultural societies
- Community halls and volunteer groups
- Youth programs and seasonal village traditions
These efforts create a welcoming, neighbourly atmosphere.
Heritage Is at the Heart of Orono
The village proudly showcases its history through:
- Traditional main-street buildings
- Historic homes and barns
- Multi-generation family farms
- Architectural charm rooted in early settlement
- Community stories passed down through generations
This heritage awareness enriches Orono’s identity and strengthens community pride.
Agriculture Continues to Shape the Community
Agriculture remains an important part of life in and around Orono. The region supports:
- Dairy and beef operations
- Grain, hay, and field crop production
- Mixed livestock farms
- Market gardening and rural craftsmanship
This agricultural foundation is celebrated annually at the Orono Fair, one of Durham Region’s most significant rural traditions.
A Natural Companion to the Orono Fair
Together, Orono and its fair reflect the region’s strongest qualities:
- Rural heritage
- Volunteer energy
- Youth involvement
- Homecraft creativity
- Generational continuity
- A deep sense of community belonging
A Community Where Heritage, Countryside & Local Spirit Flourish
Whether exploring historic streets, wandering scenic country roads, visiting friendly local shops, or celebrating traditions like the Orono Fair, Orono offers a memorable rural Ontario experience where heritage and community pride continue to thrive.
