About the Fair

One of Ontario’s Oldest Agricultural Traditions, Celebrating Rural Heritage & Community Pride

The Aylmer Fair, presented by the Aylmer Agricultural Society, is one of the longest-running agricultural fairs in the province—its origins stretching back to the mid-19th century. For more than a century and a half, the fair has been a cornerstone of community life in Elgin County, honouring the agricultural roots and rural values that shaped the region.

A Fair with Deep 19th-Century Roots

The Aylmer Fair began during a transformative period in Ontario’s history, when agricultural societies were forming across the province to help farmers share knowledge, encourage excellence, and build strong rural communities. Aylmer—already a growing agricultural and commercial centre—quickly became a natural home for such an exhibition.

In its earliest years, the fair served as an annual gathering place where farm families showcased livestock, produce, grains, and homemade goods. These early exhibitions helped strengthen the local economy, support innovation, and highlight the importance of agriculture in the region.

A Strong Foundation in Agriculture

Agriculture has always remained central to the Aylmer Fair. Over generations, local farm families have exhibited:

• Dairy and beef cattle
• Sheep and goats
• Poultry
• Horses and small livestock

These displays reflect the hard work, skill, and multi-generation dedication that define farming in East Elgin.

The fair’s homecraft, domestic arts, and handwork divisions are equally important, showcasing quilting, preserves, baking, floriculture, handicrafts, youth entries, and other creations that represent the practical and artistic talents of rural life.

Youth Involvement Through Generations

Youth have played an essential role in the Aylmer Fair for decades. Through 4-H clubs, school programs, and junior fair classes, young people learn:

• Leadership
• Responsibility
• Agricultural literacy
• Craftsmanship
• Pride in rural heritage

These experiences help shape future community leaders, exhibitors, and volunteers who continue to carry the fair’s traditions forward.

Sustained by Dedicated Volunteers

The longevity of the Aylmer Fair is a direct result of the commitment of the Aylmer Agricultural Society and its volunteers. These individuals devote countless hours to organizing events, coordinating exhibits, maintaining fairgrounds, and preserving traditions that have defined the fair for generations.

Many volunteers have family histories tied to the fair—representing the multi-generation community spirit that makes the fair possible.

A Reflection of Aylmer’s Rural Identity

Aylmer is a community with deep agricultural roots, close-knit neighbourhoods, and a history shaped by farming families, Mennonite traditions, and rural craftsmanship. The fair mirrors these values through:

• A celebration of agricultural excellence
• Strong youth involvement
• Appreciation for homecraft and rural creativity
• Volunteer leadership
• Multi-generation participation

These elements make the fair a powerful reflection of Aylmer’s heritage.

A Tradition That Endures

While agriculture and rural communities continue to evolve, the Aylmer Fair remains a cherished link between past and present. It celebrates the people, skills, values, and stories that have shaped the region for more than 160 years.

The fair endures because it matters—to families, volunteers, youth, and a community that continues to honour its rural beginnings.

About the Community

Aylmer, Ontario: A Friendly Elgin County Town Shaped by Heritage, Agriculture & Cultural Diversity

Located in the heart of East Elgin, Aylmer, Ontario is a welcoming town known for its agricultural roots, rich heritage, cultural diversity, and strong sense of community. Surrounded by fertile farmland and framed by the scenic countryside of Southwestern Ontario, Aylmer offers a unique blend of rural charm and small-town vitality.

A Town Built on Settlement, Mills & Rural Industry

Aylmer’s history dates back to the early-to-mid 1800s, when settlers began establishing farms, mills, shops, and early businesses along key transportation routes between St. Thomas, Tillsonburg, and Lake Erie. Its fertile soils and strategic location helped the town grow into an important service centre for surrounding farm families.

By the late 19th century, Aylmer featured a thriving main street, active agricultural markets, churches, community halls, and small industries. Many of these early features continue to shape the town’s identity today.

A Beautiful Region of Farmland & Countryside

Aylmer sits within one of Ontario’s most productive agricultural regions. The surrounding landscape includes:

• Dairy and beef farms
• Cash crops (corn, soybeans, wheat)
• Vegetable operations
• Family-run homesteads
• Mennonite farms and rural businesses

The countryside is marked by open fields, tidy concessions, heritage barns, and peaceful rural vistas. Country roads surrounding Aylmer are perfect for scenic drives, photography, cycling, and exploring rural culture.

A Welcoming, Multicultural Community

Aylmer is well known for its unique blend of cultural influences, especially its strong Mennonite and Amish presence. Horse-drawn buggies, local markets, handcrafted goods, and traditional farming practices add a special cultural richness to the area.

The town is also home to long-time residents, newcomers, and families who appreciate Aylmer’s friendly atmosphere and affordable, rural lifestyle. Community involvement is strong, and local churches, service groups, and organizations play a key role in everyday life.

A Vibrant Town Centre

Aylmer’s downtown features a charming mix of:

• Locally owned shops
• Restaurants and cafés
• Heritage storefronts
• Artisans and specialty retailers
• Community gathering places

Public parks, seasonal decorations, and downtown improvements help maintain a lively and walkable main street experience.

Deep Agricultural Roots

Agriculture has always been central to Aylmer’s identity. Multi-generation family farms contribute to the local economy, shape the landscape, and uphold the rural traditions that have defined the area for more than a century.

These agricultural connections are proudly celebrated each year at the Aylmer Fair, one of Ontario’s oldest rural exhibitions.

A Perfect Fit with the Aylmer Fair

The fair reflects the community’s strongest qualities:

• Pride in rural heritage
• A commitment to youth and education
• Respect for agricultural traditions
• Creativity expressed through homecrafts
• Strong community involvement

Together, Aylmer and its fair tell a unified story—one of tradition, resilience, and rural values that continue to thrive.

A Town with Lasting Heart

Whether exploring the countryside, visiting local shops, learning about Mennonite heritage, or participating in community events, Aylmer offers a warm and memorable experience.

It is a town where heritage meets diversity, where agriculture meets community spirit, and where rural Ontario’s traditions remain strong.

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🌾 Explore Nearby Agritourism Experiences

Visitors attending the Aylmer Fair may also enjoy discovering nearby farms, markets, and rural attractions in Elgin County and the surrounding region.

• St. Thomas Farmers’ Market – St. Thomas – a long-running market offering fresh produce and locally made foods
• Springwater Conservation Area – Aylmer – a scenic park offering trails, camping, and outdoor recreation
• Straffordville PumpkinFest – Straffordville – a popular fall festival celebrating pumpkins and rural traditions
• Port Stanley Harbour & Beach – Port Stanley – a nearby Lake Erie destination known for its beach, harbour, and restaurants

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