About the Fair

A Muskoka Tradition Celebrating Agriculture, Homecraft & Rural Community Spirit Since 1884

The Stisted Fall Fair, proudly hosted by the Stisted Township Agricultural Society, has been a cherished part of northern Muskoka’s rural identity since 1884. For well over a century, the fair has brought together farm families, neighbours, cottagers, and visitors to celebrate agricultural achievement, homecraft creativity, and the warm community spirit that has long defined the Stisted region.

A Fair Rooted in Pioneer Farming & Early Muskoka Settlement

The Stisted Fall Fair began in the late 19th century, when settlers and homesteaders were clearing land, establishing farms, and building small communities throughout Muskoka’s northern townships. Agricultural societies were essential at the time, helping residents share practical knowledge, improve livestock, and support one another in the challenging early years.

Early fairs featured livestock judging, crop displays, preserves, sewing, quilting, and demonstrations of essential homestead skills. Many of these original traditions remain central to the fair today.

Agriculture at the Heart of the Stisted Fall Fair

Agriculture continues to be a core part of the fair, showcased through a variety of traditional exhibits, including:

• Dairy and beef cattle
• Poultry, sheep, goats & small livestock
• Field crops, hay, vegetables, grain & garden produce
• Woodworking, rural crafts & homesteading demonstrations

These exhibits honour the dedication, resilience, and ingenuity of Northern Muskoka’s farm families, past and present.

The fair’s homecraft divisions, including preserves, baking, sewing, quilting, knitting, floriculture, photography, arts, and junior categories, celebrate the creative and domestic traditions woven into rural community life.

Youth Participation & Generational Connection

Youth involvement is a defining feature of the Stisted Fall Fair. Through 4-H clubs, junior divisions, school projects, and agricultural learning activities, young people gain:

• Leadership experience
• Practical farm and homecraft skills
• Creativity and teamwork
• Agricultural awareness
• A strong sense of local heritage

Generational participation, grandparents, parents, and children exhibiting together, helps keep the fair’s heritage alive year after year.

Driven by Volunteers & Deep Rural Pride

The Stisted Township Agricultural Society, supported by a committed group of volunteers, works tirelessly to preserve the fair’s traditions. Their efforts, organizing exhibits, preparing grounds, supporting participants, and honouring local heritage, reflect the strong community spirit that defines Stisted Township.

A Celebration of Northern Muskoka’s Rural Identity

The Stisted Fall Fair proudly reflects:

• Agricultural excellence
• Homecraft tradition
• Youth engagement
• Volunteer leadership
• Generational pride
• Community unity

A Tradition That Endures

More than 140 years after its founding, the Stisted Fall Fair remains a beloved celebration, honouring the agricultural roots, creative achievements, and community spirit that continue to enrich Stisted Township and Northern Muskoka.

About the Community

Stisted Township, Ontario: A Scenic Northern Muskoka Community Where Rural Heritage, Forest Landscapes & Local Pride Thrive

Located in northern Muskoka District, Stisted Township is a peaceful rural community defined by its agricultural heritage, forested landscapes, and long-standing local traditions. With its mix of historic farms, lakes, winding backroads, and warm community spirit, Stisted Township reflects the charm and endurance of northern rural Ontario.

A Community Built on Homesteading, Logging & Early Agriculture

Stisted Township emerged in the late 1800s as settlers cleared land, built homesteads, and established small farming communities throughout Muskoka’s rugged northern terrain. Agriculture and logging formed the foundation of local life, supported by mills, general stores, and community gathering places.

Historic barns, old homesteads, and traditional properties still echo the area’s early beginnings.

A Landscape of Forests, Lakes & Northern Countryside

Stisted Township is surrounded by a natural landscape rich in beauty and character:

• Rolling farmland nestled among woodlots
• Forested hills full of wildlife
• Quiet lakes, streams & wetlands
• Scenic concession roads and historic routes
• Peaceful sunsets over open fields and tree lines

This blend of farmland, water, and wilderness creates the township’s signature northern charm.

A Community Rooted in Local Spirit & Rural Connection

Residents of Stisted Township share a strong sense of community pride and support:

• Rural associations and community halls
• Agricultural traditions and local producers
• Seasonal events and heritage celebrations
• Outdoor recreation and stewardship of natural spaces
• Multi-generational family involvement

This neighbourly spirit continues to enrich local life.

Heritage Preserved Through Generations

Stisted Township honours its long rural history through:

• Century farms and family homesteads
• Community archives and local storytellers
• Preserved buildings and rural landmarks
• Traditions tied to agriculture and northern living

These elements help maintain the township’s identity and heritage.

Agriculture Still Shapes Local Life

Although logging and rural settlement helped shape early Stisted Township, agriculture continues to play an important role today:

• Beef and mixed livestock farms
• Hay, grain & forage production
• Small producers and rural artisans
• Homesteaders, gardeners & maple syrup makers

This agricultural foundation is proudly celebrated each year at the Stisted Fall Fair, the township’s longest-standing community tradition.

A Natural Companion to the Stisted Fall Fair

Together, Stisted Township and its fair highlight:

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

A Community Where Northern Beauty & Rural Spirit Flourish

Whether exploring forested country roads, visiting local farms, enjoying lakeside scenery, or celebrating cherished traditions like the Stisted Fall Fair, Stisted Township offers a memorable Muskoka experience, where rural heritage, nature, and community warmth come together beautifully.