About the Fair

A Dufferin County Tradition Celebrating Agriculture, Homecraft & Community Pride Since 1867

The Shelburne Fair, proudly hosted by the Shelburne Agricultural Society, has been a foundational rural celebration in Dufferin County since 1867. For more than 150 years, the fair has united farm families, neighbours, and visitors with a shared appreciation for agricultural excellence, homecraft creativity, and the enduring community spirit that defines Shelburne and the surrounding region.

A Fair Rooted in Rural Settlement & Early Township Life

The fair began shortly after the founding years of Melancthon and Amaranth Townships, when settlers were clearing land, building homes, and establishing farms. Agricultural societies played a vital role in these developing communities, supporting farmers, sharing knowledge, encouraging competition, and fostering social connection.

Early Shelburne fairs featured livestock judging, field crop displays, vegetables and grain, preserves, quilting, sewing, and demonstrations of essential homesteading skills. Many of these long-established traditions remain at the heart of the fair today.

Agriculture at the Heart of the Shelburne Fair

Agriculture continues to define the fair, proudly showcased through exhibits including:

• Dairy and beef cattle
• Sheep, goats, poultry, and small livestock
• Field crops, hay, grain, vegetables, and homegrown produce
• Woodworking, rural crafts, and homesteading demonstrations

These agricultural displays recognize the dedication and skill of farming families who have shaped Dufferin County’s rural heritage for generations.

The homecraft divisions, including baking, preserves, sewing, quilting, knitting, floriculture, photography, arts, and junior classes, celebrate the creativity and domestic traditions that enrich rural community life.

Youth Participation & Generational Continuity

Youth involvement is a central pillar of the Shelburne Fair. Through 4-H clubs, junior divisions, school exhibits, and agricultural education programs, young people gain:

• Leadership and responsibility
• Practical farm and homecraft skills
• Confidence and creativity
• Agricultural literacy
• A meaningful connection to rural traditions

Generational participation, often involving families exhibiting together, helps keep the fair’s spirit strong and vibrant.

Powered by Volunteers & Community Dedication

The Shelburne Agricultural Society, supported by hardworking volunteers, devotes countless hours each year to keeping the fair active and thriving. Their efforts, organizing exhibits, supporting participants, maintaining grounds, and celebrating local heritage, reflect the community pride that defines Shelburne.

A Celebration of Dufferin County’s Rural Values

The Shelburne Fair proudly highlights:

• Agricultural achievement
• Homecraft traditions
• Youth involvement
• Volunteer leadership
• Generational pride
• Community unity

A Tradition That Endures

More than a century and a half after its first gathering, the Shelburne Fair remains a beloved celebration, honouring the agricultural roots, creativity, and community spirit that continue to enrich Shelburne and rural Dufferin County.

About the Community

Shelburne, Ontario: A Growing Dufferin County Community Where Heritage, Countryside & Small-Town Warmth Meet

Situated at one of the highest elevations in southern Ontario, Shelburne is a welcoming and fast-growing community known for its rural heritage, friendly atmosphere, and vibrant local spirit. Traditionally an agricultural centre, Shelburne maintains its small-town charm even as it continues to expand and evolve.

A Community Built on Settlement, Farming & Early Industry

Shelburne’s early development was tied to farming families, sawmills, and local trades that supported the growing community. By the late 1800s, the village had become an important service centre for the surrounding rural region, with shops, churches, blacksmiths, mills, and community halls serving daily life.

Historic architecture, century homes, and preserved streetscapes still reflect the community’s pioneer roots.

A Landscape of Fields, Forests & Gentle Country Roads

Shelburne is surrounded by a scenic rural environment typical of Dufferin County, including:

• Productive farmland
• Rolling fields and wide-open skies
• Woodlots and natural wildlife habitat
• Long rural roads ideal for country drives
• Conservation areas and nature trails nearby

This peaceful countryside enhances the community’s welcoming character.

A Community Known for Local Pride & Involvement

Residents of Shelburne are active contributors to community life, supporting:

• Local businesses and artisan markets
• Sports clubs and recreation programs
• Cultural groups and music events
• Seasonal festivals and community celebrations
• Agricultural and rural associations

This involvement strengthens Shelburne’s identity and sense of belonging.

Heritage Preserved Through Generations

Shelburne honours its past through:

• Century farms and long-standing local families
• Community museums and heritage displays
• Historic landmarks and cultural archives
• Traditions rooted in rural and agricultural life

These elements help maintain a strong connection between the community’s early roots and its modern growth.

Agriculture Remains Central to the Region

Even with ongoing expansion, the surrounding townships still support a vibrant agricultural sector that includes:

• Dairy and beef operations
• Mixed livestock farms
• Grain and cash crop production
• Market gardens and rural producers

This rural foundation is proudly celebrated each year at the Shelburne Fair, a long-standing community tradition.

A Natural Companion to the Shelburne Fair

Together, the community and its fair highlight:

• Rural heritage
• Youth engagement
• Homecraft excellence
• Volunteer commitment
• Community pride
• Generational continuity

A Community Where Heritage, Countryside & Local Spirit Flourish

Whether enjoying its quiet rural roads, visiting local farms, supporting downtown businesses, or celebrating cherished traditions like the Shelburne Fair, Shelburne offers a memorable Dufferin County experience, where heritage, countryside beauty, and warm hospitality come together naturally.