About the Fair
A Western Ontario Tradition Celebrating Agriculture, Homecraft & Community Spirit Since 1876
The Glencoe Fair, presented by the Glencoe Agricultural Society, is a long-standing rural tradition that has been part of Southwestern Ontario life since 1876. For nearly 150 years, the fair has brought together families, neighbours, and visitors from Glencoe, Wardsville, Newbury, and surrounding communities to celebrate agricultural excellence, creative homecrafts, and the strong community bonds that define the region.
A Fair Born from Early Farm Communities & Rural Pride
The Glencoe Fair began during a time when the region was developing into one of Ontario’s most productive agricultural areas. Early settlers established thriving farms and small villages across Mosa Township, Ekfrid Township, and the broader Middlesex County landscape. Agricultural societies were formed to help farmers improve livestock, share knowledge, and build community identity.
The first Glencoe fairs featured livestock judging, grain and vegetable displays, homemade goods, and demonstrations of essential farm and homesteading skills, traditions that remain central to the fair today.
Agriculture at the Heart of the Glencoe Fair
Agriculture remains the cornerstone of the fair and is proudly represented through exhibits such as:
- Dairy and beef cattle
- Sheep, goats, poultry, and small livestock
- Field crops, hay, grain, vegetables, and root produce
- Woodworking, rural crafts, and traditional skills
These displays highlight the dedication, skill, and resilience of farming families throughout Middlesex County and neighbouring communities.
The fair’s homecraft divisions, including preserves, baking, quilting, sewing, knitting, floriculture, crafts, photography, and junior categories, celebrate the creativity and domestic artistry woven into rural life.
Youth Involvement & Generational Tradition
Young people are a vital part of the Glencoe Fair. Through 4-H programs, junior competitions, school projects, and agricultural learning initiatives, youth gain:
- Leadership and teamwork
- Practical farming and homecraft skills
- Creativity and confidence
- Agricultural literacy
- A strong sense of community heritage
Generational participation is a hallmark of the fair, with many local families contributing for decades.
Guided by Volunteers & Community Commitment
The Glencoe Agricultural Society and its dedicated volunteers work tirelessly to preserve the fair’s long history. Their efforts. planning exhibits, supporting participants, maintaining grounds, and honouring tradition, reflect the cooperative spirit that continues to define Glencoe and surrounding communities.
A Celebration of Middlesex County’s Rural Identity
The Glencoe Fair proudly reflects the region’s most enduring values:
- Agricultural excellence
- Creative homecraft traditions
- Youth engagement
- Generational pride
- Volunteer leadership
- Strong community connection
A Tradition That Endures
Through generations of change, the Glencoe Fair remains a cherished celebration of rural Ontario, honouring the agricultural roots and community strength that continue to define the region today.
About the Community
Glencoe, Ontario: A Historic Middlesex County Community Rooted in Farmland, Heritage & Small-Town Warmth
Located within the Municipality of Southwest Middlesex, Glencoe, Ontario is a welcoming rural community known for its agricultural heritage, historic charm, and enduring small-town character. With its friendly atmosphere, rich history, and surrounding farmland, Glencoe reflects the heart of life in Western Ontario.
A Community Built on Early Settlement & Railway Growth
Glencoe’s origins date back to the mid-19th century, when settlers established farms and small businesses throughout Mosa Township. The arrival of the railway transformed Glencoe into a vital regional centre, connecting farmers to new markets and helping the community grow rapidly.
Today, many historic buildings, family farms, and established neighbourhoods still reflect Glencoe’s early years.
A Landscape of Farmland, Woodlots & Open Country Roads
Glencoe is surrounded by classic Southwestern Ontario scenery, including:
- Rolling crop fields and pasturelands
- Woodlots and natural wildlife corridors
- Quiet concession roads
- Scenic rural driving routes
- Open horizons across Middlesex County
This peaceful landscape contributes to the community’s warm, rural character.
A Community Known for Local Pride & Involvement
Glencoe’s residents support a strong culture of participation, contributing to:
- Agricultural organizations
- Local service clubs
- Sports, recreation, and youth programs
- Community halls and cultural events
- Seasonal celebrations and long-standing traditions
Volunteerism and community involvement are key parts of Glencoe’s identity.
Heritage Preserved Through Generations
Glencoe maintains strong ties to its past through:
- Century-old farms
- Heritage homes and historic storefronts
- Community archives and local lore
- Traditions rooted in rural life and agricultural achievement
These elements help preserve Glencoe’s distinctive character.
Agriculture Continues to Shape Daily Life
The surrounding region supports a strong agricultural economy, including:
- Dairy and beef farming
- Field crops such as corn, soybeans, and wheat
- Mixed livestock operations
- Rural artisans and local producers
This agricultural foundation is celebrated each year at the Glencoe Fair, one of the community’s most meaningful events.
A Natural Companion to the Glencoe Fair
Together, Glencoe and its fair highlight the region’s strongest qualities:
- Rural heritage
- Youth engagement
- Volunteer commitment
- Homecraft excellence
- Generational continuity
- Strong community ties
A Community Where Countryside Living & Local Traditions Thrive
Whether exploring rural backroads, connecting with friendly neighbours, enjoying peaceful farmland vistas, or celebrating long-loved traditions like the Glencoe Fair, Glencoe offers a memorable Middlesex County experience, where heritage, agriculture, and community spirit flourish.
