About the Fair
A Proud Bruce County Tradition Celebrating Agriculture, Homecraft & Community Spirit Since 1863
The Ripley–Huron Fall Fair, hosted by the Ripley Agricultural Society, has been a beloved Bruce County tradition since 1863. For more than 160 years, the fair has brought together rural families, neighbours, and visitors to celebrate agricultural excellence, creative homecrafts, and the strong community spirit that defines Ripley and Huron Township.
A Fair Rooted in Rural Heritage & Early Settlement
When the fair first began, the Ripley area was a growing agricultural community supported by family farms, mills, and small businesses. Agricultural societies played a crucial role in those early days, helping farmers improve livestock, share knowledge, and strengthen community ties.
Early Ripley fairs featured livestock competitions, grain and vegetable displays, preserves, quilts, sewing, and demonstrations of essential homesteading skills. These foundational traditions remain central to the fair today.
Agriculture at the Heart of the Ripley–Huron Fall Fair
Agriculture continues to be the backbone of the fair, showcased through a variety of exhibits and competitions:
- Dairy and beef cattle
- Sheep, goats, poultry, and small livestock
- Field crops, grain, hay, vegetables, and garden produce
- Woodworking, rural crafts, and practical homesteading skills
These displays honour the dedication and skill of the farm families who have shaped Bruce County for generations.
The homecraft divisions, including baking, preserves, sewing, quilting, knitting, floriculture, photography, arts, and junior categories, celebrate the creativity and domestic traditions that enrich rural life.
Youth Engagement & Generational Strength
The Ripley–Huron Fall Fair has long emphasized youth participation. Through 4-H clubs, junior exhibits, school displays, and agricultural learning activities, young participants develop:
- Leadership and teamwork
- Practical farm and homecraft skills
- Creativity and confidence
- Agricultural literacy
- A strong connection to local heritage
Generational involvement, often with families exhibiting across three or four generations, helps keep the fair vibrant and deeply rooted.
Powered by Volunteers & Community Commitment
The Ripley Agricultural Society, supported by a dedicated team of volunteers, works year-round to plan and present the fair. Their efforts, maintaining fairgrounds, organizing divisions, supporting exhibitors, and celebrating local heritage, reflect the strong sense of pride that defines Ripley.
A Celebration of Bruce County’s Rural Values
The Ripley–Huron Fall Fair proudly represents the region’s most enduring values:
- Agricultural excellence
- Homecraft and creative traditions
- Youth involvement
- Volunteer leadership
- Generational continuity
- Community unity
A Tradition That Endures
More than 160 years after its founding, the Ripley–Huron Fall Fair remains a cherished celebration, honouring the agricultural roots, creativity, and community spirit that continue to enrich Ripley, Huron Township, and rural Bruce County.
About the Community
Ripley, Ontario: A Warm Bruce County Community Where Rural Heritage, Creativity & Community Spirit Thrive
Located in Huron-Kinloss Township in southwestern Bruce County, Ripley is a friendly and close-knit rural community known for its agricultural roots, creative local culture, and strong sense of community pride. With its small-town charm, vibrant local involvement, and surrounding farmland, Ripley reflects the best of rural Ontario life.
A Community Built on Farming, Industry & Early Settlement
Ripley’s early development grew from local farms, mills, and small industries that supported pioneer families settling throughout Huron Township. The village soon became a community hub, offering shops, services, churches, and social gathering places for rural residents.
Historic homes, agricultural landscapes, and long-standing family roots still reflect Ripley’s heritage.
A Landscape of Farmland, Woodlots & Peaceful Country Roads
Ripley is surrounded by the classic rural beauty of Bruce County, including:
- Dairy and mixed livestock farms
- Grain, hay, and cash crop fields
- Woodlots and natural wildlife areas
- Scenic concession roads perfect for country drives
- Open skies and wide rural vistas
This tranquil landscape shapes the rhythm of daily life in the community.
A Community Known for Energy, Creativity & Involvement
Ripley residents take pride in their active community life. They support:
- Local businesses and family-run shops
- Arts, heritage, and cultural programs
- Recreation and youth organizations
- Agricultural groups and rural associations
- Seasonal festivals and community events
Popular events like the Ripley Food Art Craft Festival and the Ripley Reunion reflect the village’s lively local spirit.
Heritage Preserved Through Generations
Ripley’s identity is grounded in its heritage, highlighted through:
- Century farms
- Historic churches and community buildings
- Local history projects and archives
- Traditions tied to rural craftsmanship and agricultural life
These elements anchor the community’s strong sense of place and continuity.
Agriculture Continues to Shape the Region
Farming remains a cornerstone of life in Ripley and the surrounding township, including:
- Dairy farming
- Beef and mixed livestock
- Grain and forage crop production
- Market gardens and small producers
This strong agricultural base is proudly celebrated each year at the Ripley–Huron Fall Fair, a defining community tradition.
A Natural Companion to the Ripley–Huron Fall Fair
Together, the fair and the community highlight:
- Rural heritage
- Homecraft excellence
- Youth engagement
- Generational pride
- Community unity
- Volunteer dedication
A Community Where Tradition, Farmland & Local Spirit Flourish
Whether visiting nearby farms, exploring peaceful country roads, enjoying local events, or celebrating treasured traditions like the Ripley–Huron Fall Fair, Ripley offers a welcoming Bruce County experience, where heritage, creativity, and community warmth come together beautifully.
