About the Fair

A Muskoka Tradition Celebrating Agriculture, Homecraft & Community Spirit Since 1867

The Bracebridge Fall Fair, presented by the Bracebridge Agricultural Society, is one of Muskoka’s oldest and most cherished rural celebrations. First held in 1867, the same year Canada became a nation, the fair has served for more than 150 years as a gathering place for farm families, craftspeople, neighbours, and visitors. It remains a proud reminder of Muskoka’s agricultural roots—roots that predate its modern reputation as a cottage-country destination.

A Fair Rooted in Early Settlement & Rural Muskoka Life

Long before Muskoka was known for lakeside escapes and tourism, it was home to pioneering families who carved homesteads from the rugged landscape. The fair grew out of these early communities, where farming, logging, and small-scale industry formed the core of local life.

The Bracebridge Agricultural Society organized the first exhibitions to support better farming practices, showcase livestock, and strengthen ties across Muskoka’s developing settlements.

Agriculture at the Heart of the Bracebridge Fall Fair

Agriculture remains the foundation of the fair, proudly reflected in its core exhibits:

• Dairy and beef cattle
• Sheep, goats, poultry, and small livestock
• Field crops, root vegetables, grain, hay, and garden produce
• Woodworking, rural crafts, and essential homesteading skills

These displays highlight the perseverance and craftsmanship of Muskoka’s farm families—individuals who continue to work the land despite the region’s unyielding terrain.

The fair’s homecraft divisions—including preserves, baking, sewing, quilting, knitting, floriculture, photography, crafts, and junior arts—showcase the creativity and domestic traditions that have long played a central role in rural Muskoka life.

Youth Engagement & Generational Traditions

Young people play a vital role at the Bracebridge Fall Fair. Through 4-H clubs, school entries, junior competitions, and agricultural learning programs, they gain:

• Leadership and personal responsibility
• Hands-on farm and domestic skills
• Creative confidence and craftsmanship
• Agricultural literacy
• A meaningful connection to their community

Families who have participated in the fair for generations continue to pass down these traditions.

Driven by Volunteers & Community Dedication

The Bracebridge Agricultural Society and its volunteers ensure the fair’s success each year. Their dedication—planning exhibits, preparing fairgrounds, assisting exhibitors, and preserving local heritage—reflects the strong community bonds that have shaped Bracebridge since its earliest days.

A Celebration of Muskoka’s Rural Identity

The fair proudly highlights the qualities that define the region’s agricultural heritage:

• Farm excellence
• Homecraft artistry
• Youth involvement
• Volunteer commitment
• Generational continuity
• Community pride

A Tradition That Endures

More than 150 years after its founding, the Bracebridge Fall Fair continues to honour Muskoka’s deep rural roots, celebrating agriculture, creativity, and community spirit that remain vibrant today.

About the Community.

Bracebridge, Ontario: A Scenic Muskoka Community Where Heritage, Waterfalls & Natural Beauty Meet Rural Tradition

Located in the heart of Muskoka, Bracebridge is a picturesque community known for its waterfalls, forested landscapes, and warm small-town spirit. While today it’s celebrated as a four-season destination, Bracebridge also has rich agricultural and industrial roots that shaped its character long before tourism became central to the region.

A Community Shaped by Waterpower & Early Settlement

Bracebridge was established in the mid-1800s along the Muskoka River, where abundant waterpower led to the growth of mills, workshops, and early industry. Families settled around these developments, creating a lively community connected by rugged roads, rivers, and the expanding Muskoka Road system.

Historic homes, preserved buildings, and early streetscapes still reflect the community’s pioneering age.

A Landscape of Waterfalls, Forests & Muskoka Charm

Bracebridge is surrounded by striking natural scenery, including:

• Iconic waterfalls such as Bracebridge Falls and High Falls
• Rock ridges and forested wilderness
• Lakes, rivers, and quiet inlets
• Rolling farmland on the town’s outskirts
• Scenic rural roads leading to small hamlets and cottage routes

This blend of nature and rural countryside gives Bracebridge its signature Muskoka atmosphere.

A Community Known for Warmth, Creativity & Local Involvement

Bracebridge thrives on community connection. Residents support:

• Local arts, culture, and theatre
• Community halls and heritage groups
• Seasonal celebrations and long-standing traditions
• Service clubs and volunteer organizations
• Agricultural societies, rural associations, and youth programs

This spirit of involvement helps shape the town’s welcoming character.

Heritage Preserved Through Generations

Bracebridge remains deeply connected to its history through:

• Longstanding farms
• Heritage buildings and early industrial landmarks
• Community stories passed through families
• Cultural traditions rooted in early Muskoka life

These continue to enrich the town’s identity.

Agriculture Still Matters in Muskoka

Though Muskoka is widely recognized for tourism, agriculture remains an important part of Bracebridge and the surrounding region, supporting:

• Dairy and beef farming
• Hay, grain, and field crops
• Mixed farming and livestock
• Rural artisans and homesteaders

These agricultural connections are celebrated annually at the Bracebridge Fall Fair, a cherished community event.

A Natural Companion to the Bracebridge Fall Fair

Together, Bracebridge and its fair highlight the community’s strongest qualities:

• Rural heritage
• Youth involvement
• Volunteer dedication
• Creative expression
• Generational pride
• Community connection

A Community Where Nature, Heritage & Local Traditions Flourish

Whether wandering its waterfall trails, exploring rural routes, visiting friendly shops, or celebrating traditions like the Bracebridge Fall Fair, Bracebridge offers a memorable Muskoka experience—where natural beauty, rich heritage, and community warmth come together beautifully.