About the Fair

A Dundas County Tradition Celebrating Agriculture, Homecraft & Community Spirit Since 1887

The Chesterville Fair, presented by the Chesterville & District Agricultural Society, is one of Eastern Ontario’s most respected rural traditions, bringing together agriculture, homecraft, and community pride each summer in the village of Chesterville, Ontario. Since its founding in 1887, the fair has served as a gathering place where farm families, neighbours, and visitors celebrate agricultural excellence, creativity, and the enduring spirit of rural life.

For more than a century, the fair has reflected the strong agricultural foundation and close-knit community that define Dundas County.

A Fair Rooted in Agricultural Growth & Rural Heritage

The Chesterville Fair was established during a period of expanding agricultural settlement in Eastern Ontario. Agricultural societies played a vital role in helping farmers improve livestock, share knowledge, and strengthen rural communities.

Early fairs featured livestock exhibitions, field crop displays, baking and preserves, sewing, and demonstrations of traditional homesteading skills, many of which remain at the heart of the fair today.

Agriculture at the Heart of the Chesterville Fair

Agriculture continues to anchor the fair through a wide range of exhibits and competitions, including:

• Dairy and beef cattle exhibitions
• Sheep, poultry, and small livestock
• Field crops, hay, grain, and garden produce
• Rural crafts, woodworking, and traditional skills

Homecraft divisions, including baking, preserves, quilting, sewing, knitting, floriculture, photography, art, and junior exhibits, celebrate the creativity and traditions that remain central to rural life.

These exhibits honour the dedication of agricultural families who have shaped Dundas County for generations.

Youth Participation & Generational Tradition

Youth involvement has always been a cornerstone of the Chesterville Fair. Through junior divisions, school exhibits, and agricultural education programs, young participants develop:

• Agricultural knowledge and appreciation
• Practical skills and creativity
• Leadership and confidence
• A connection to rural heritage
• Strong community pride

Many families participate year after year, preserving traditions across multiple generations.

Powered by Volunteers & Community Dedication

The Chesterville & District Agricultural Society, supported by dedicated volunteers, works year-round to organize and host the fair. Their efforts in maintaining fairgrounds, coordinating competitions, and supporting exhibitors reflect the strong volunteer spirit that defines Chesterville.

A Celebration of Dundas County’s Agricultural Identity

The Chesterville Fair proudly celebrates:

• Agricultural excellence
• Homecraft and creative expression
• Youth engagement and education
• Volunteer leadership
• Generational continuity
• Community pride and unity

A Tradition That Continues to Thrive

More than 135 years after its founding, the Chesterville Fair remains a cherished celebration, honouring the agricultural heritage, creativity, and community spirit that continue to define Chesterville and the surrounding Dundas County region.

About the Community

Chesterville, Ontario: A Historic Dundas County Village Where Agriculture & Community Spirit Flourish

Located in North Dundas Township, southeast of Ottawa, Chesterville is a welcoming rural village known for its rich agricultural heritage, historic character, and strong sense of community pride. Surrounded by productive farmland and scenic countryside, Chesterville reflects the enduring traditions of Eastern Ontario’s farming communities.

A Community Shaped by Agriculture & Early Settlement

Chesterville was established in the mid-1800s as an agricultural service centre supporting surrounding farms. The South Nation River and nearby transportation routes helped foster growth, allowing farmers to bring crops and livestock to market.

Agriculture quickly became the foundation of the community’s economy and identity.

A Landscape of Fertile Farmland & Rural Countryside

The Chesterville area features a productive agricultural landscape, including:

• Dairy and livestock farms
• Cash crop operations producing corn, soybeans, and grains
• Scenic rural roads and open farmland
• Woodlots, waterways, and natural areas

This fertile farmland continues to support strong agricultural activity.

A Community Known for Pride, Events & Volunteerism

Chesterville residents share a strong commitment to community involvement, supporting:

• Agricultural fairs and community events
• Volunteer organizations and service clubs
• Youth programs and recreation activities
• Local businesses and rural initiatives

This culture of volunteerism strengthens the village’s close-knit atmosphere.

Agriculture Remains Central to Chesterville’s Identity

Agriculture continues to play a vital role in the region, including:

• Dairy farming
• Livestock and mixed farming operations
• Multi-generational family farms
• Agricultural businesses supporting rural life

This agricultural heritage is proudly celebrated each year at the Chesterville Fair.

A Natural Companion to the Chesterville Fair

Together, Chesterville and its fair highlight:

• Agricultural and rural heritage
• Youth education and involvement
• Homecraft and creative traditions
• Volunteer dedication
• Strong community identity

Where Agricultural Heritage & Community Spirit Continue to Thrive

Whether attending the Chesterville Fair, exploring the surrounding countryside, or connecting with local residents, Chesterville offers an authentic Dundas County experience, where agriculture, tradition, and community spirit continue to flourish.

🌾 Explore Nearby Agritourism Experiences

Visitors attending the Chesterville Fair may also enjoy exploring nearby agritourism experiences and attractions in North Dundas and the Ottawa Valley.

• Winchester Farmers’ Market – Winchester – a seasonal market offering fresh produce, baked goods, and locally produced foods
• Mountain Orchards – Mountain – a popular farm destination known for apples, cider, baked goods, and seasonal experiences
• Chesterville & District Heritage Centre – Chesterville – a museum showcasing local rural history
• Nation Valley Conservation Area – near Winchester – a scenic natural area featuring trails and wildlife

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 South Mountain Fair and the Riceville Fair, each celebrating the farming traditions and community heritage of Eastern Ontario.