About the Fair

A United Counties of Prescott & Russell Tradition Celebrating Agriculture, Heritage & Community Pride

The Riceville Fair, organized by the Riceville Agricultural Society, is one of Eastern Ontario’s longest-standing rural celebrations. With a history stretching back to the mid-19th century, the fair continues to highlight agricultural excellence, creative craftsmanship, and the strong community bonds that define Riceville and the surrounding region.

A Fair Rooted in Early Settlement

Like many agricultural societies across Ontario, the Riceville Agricultural Society emerged during a period when fairs were essential gathering places for rural families. Farmers relied on these events to display livestock, compare crops, share farming knowledge, and strengthen community ties.

Situated in a rural area between Ottawa and the Quebec border, Riceville developed into a natural hub for agricultural exchange. Early fairs featured livestock judging, produce competitions, homecraft exhibits, and demonstrations of rural skills, reflecting the resilience and ingenuity of the pioneers who settled Prescott & Russell.

Agriculture at the Heart of the Fair

Agriculture remains central to the Riceville Fair’s identity. Each year, local farmers exhibit:

• Dairy and beef cattle
• Sheep, poultry, goats, and small livestock
• Field crops, grains, vegetables, and hay
• Rural crafts, woodworking, and traditional skills

These exhibits showcase the agricultural richness of the region, where family farms have provided food and livelihoods for generations.

Homecraft divisions are equally important to the fair. Quilting, sewing, preserves, baking, needlework, floriculture, visual arts, and junior crafts all highlight the creativity and practical arts that remain strong throughout Eastern Ontario’s rural communities.

Youth Engagement & Generational Continuity

Youth involvement has always been a cornerstone of the Riceville Fair. Through junior categories, school participation, 4-H involvement, and hands-on agricultural learning, young people develop:

• Leadership
• Practical and creative skills
• Agricultural literacy
• A deep sense of community pride

Many families have participated for generations, reinforcing the fair’s lasting significance.

Sustained by Dedicated Volunteers

The Riceville Agricultural Society and its volunteers form the backbone of the fair. Their efforts, planning exhibits, preparing fairgrounds, preserving traditions, and encouraging community involvement, ensure that the fair remains vibrant and meaningful.

Their work reflects the commitment and cooperative spirit that define Riceville’s rural character.

A Reflection of Prescott & Russell Heritage

The fair embodies the region’s strongest qualities:

• Agricultural excellence
• Creative craftsmanship
• Volunteer dedication
• Multigenerational involvement
• Rural resilience and heritage pride

These values help sustain the Riceville Fair as one of the most respected rural traditions in Eastern Ontario.

A Tradition That Endures

Through generations of change, the Riceville Fair continues to celebrate agriculture, creativity, and community spirit, linking Riceville’s past with its enduring rural story.

About the Community

Riceville, Ontario: A Quiet Eastern Ontario Community Rooted in Farmland, Heritage & Rural Connection

Located in the United Counties of Prescott & Russell, between Ottawa and the Quebec border, Riceville, Ontario is a small rural community known for its agricultural heritage, natural beauty, and strong sense of neighbourly pride. Although modest in size, Riceville has a long and meaningful history shaped by its farms, families, and community institutions.

A Community Built on Early Settlers & Rural Industry

Riceville’s origins date back to the mid-19th century when early settlers began clearing land, establishing homesteads, and building small-scale industries in the region. Farming quickly became the foundation of local life, supported by sawmills, community shops, and rural services that emerged around the village.

For generations, Riceville has remained a close-knit community where agriculture, family traditions, and rural craftsmanship shape daily life.

A Landscape of Fields, Woodlots & Country Roads

Riceville is surrounded by the classic scenery of Eastern Ontario’s countryside:

• Open farmland and rolling fields
• Woodlots and natural areas
• Quiet concession roads
• Wetlands, creeks, and agricultural valleys
• Wildlife-rich rural landscapes

This mix of farmland and forest creates a peaceful setting that reflects the area’s long agricultural heritage.

A Friendly Community with Deep Roots

Despite its small population, Riceville has a strong sense of togetherness. Residents are known for their neighbourly spirit, volunteer involvement, and commitment to preserving local traditions.

Community life is anchored by rural institutions such as:

• Community halls
• Churches
• Local clubs and service groups
• Generational farms
• School and youth programs

These connections sustain the village’s warm and welcoming character.

Agriculture as a Way of Life

Agriculture remains the backbone of Riceville and its surrounding townships. Local farms contribute to:

• Dairy and beef production
• Hay, corn, and grain crops
• Mixed livestock operations
• Seasonal produce
• Rural craftsmanship and homesteading culture

Farm families play a central role in shaping community identity, supporting local events, and maintaining the area’s agricultural resilience.

This rural heritage is celebrated every year at the Riceville Fair, one of the most cherished traditions in the region.

A Natural Companion to the Riceville Fair

The fair reflects Riceville’s most enduring characteristics:

• Pride in agricultural heritage
• Youth engagement
• Volunteer dedication
• Creative homecraft traditions
• Multigenerational participation
• Strong community bonds

Together, Riceville and its fair tell a complete story of rural identity, heritage, and community spirit.

A Community Where Rural Life Thrives

Whether driving peaceful backroads, admiring the scenic farmland, connecting with long-time residents, or celebrating local traditions like the Riceville Fair, Riceville offers a warm and genuine Eastern Ontario experience.

It is a community where heritage is honoured, where agriculture remains vital, and where community spirit thrives across generations.

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🌾 Explore Nearby Agritourism Experiences

Visitors attending the Riceville Fair may also enjoy exploring nearby agritourism experiences and attractions in Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry.

• Avonmore Farmers’ Market – Avonmore – a seasonal community market offering fresh produce, baked goods, and locally made foods
• Lost Villages Museum – Long Sault – a historic museum telling the story of the communities displaced during the creation of the St. Lawrence Seaway
• Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary – near Ingleside – a scenic nature area known for wildlife viewing and walking trails
• Stone Crop Acres Winery – Morrisburg area – a local winery producing wines from grapes grown in Eastern Ontario

Some nearby experiences include links to additional Ontario Agritourism Showcase pages with more visitor information.

Visitors interested in Ontario agricultural fairs may also enjoy exploring events such as the Avonmore Fair and the Lombardy Fair, each celebrating the farming traditions and community heritage of Eastern Ontario.