About the Fair

A Muskoka Tradition Celebrating Agriculture, Homecraft & Community Spirit Since 1886

The Huntsville Fall Fair, hosted by the Huntsville & District Agricultural Society, has been a cherished Muskoka tradition since 1886. For well over a century, families, farmers, neighbours, and visitors have gathered each September to celebrate agricultural excellence, rural creativity, and the enduring community values that define the region.

A Fair Rooted in Northern Settlement & Rural Enterprise

The Huntsville Fall Fair began in the late 19th century, during a time when pioneer families were building homesteads, clearing rugged land, and establishing farms throughout northern Muskoka. Agricultural societies played an essential role in strengthening early communities, encouraging better farming methods, showcasing livestock, and creating opportunities for social connection.

Early fairs featured competitions in livestock, crops, garden produce, domestic arts, and homestead skills. These classic agricultural traditions continue to define the fair today.

Agriculture at the Heart of the Huntsville Fall Fair

Although Huntsville is known today as a gateway to Muskoka’s lakes and forests, agriculture remains at the core of its fall fair. Exhibits proudly highlight:

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

These exhibits honour the dedication of local farm families, many of whom have supported the fair for generations.

The homecraft divisions, including preserves, baking, sewing, quilting, knitting, floriculture, photography, crafts, and junior categories, celebrate the creativity and traditions woven into rural and northern life.

Youth Engagement & Generational Continuity

Young people are an integral part of the Huntsville Fall Fair. Through 4-H programs, junior competitions, school exhibits, and agricultural education opportunities, youth develop:

• Leadership skills
• Hands-on farm and homecraft abilities
• Creativity and confidence
• Agricultural literacy
• A connection to community heritage

Generational participation remains a defining hallmark of the fair.

Driven by Volunteers & Community Commitment

The Huntsville & District Agricultural Society, supported by dedicated volunteers, works tirelessly to keep the fair’s traditions alive. Their commitment, planning exhibits, coordinating entries, maintaining fairgrounds, and celebrating community pride, reflects the cooperative spirit that has long shaped Huntsville and surrounding rural areas.

A Celebration of Muskoka’s Rural Spirit

The Huntsville Fall Fair proudly reflects the region’s strongest values:

• Agricultural excellence
• Creative homecraft traditions
• Youth involvement
• Volunteer dedication
• Generational pride
• Community connection

A Tradition That Endures

Now more than 135 years strong, the Huntsville Fall Fair continues to honour the agricultural roots and community spirit that remain at the heart of northern Muskoka.

About the Community

Huntsville, Ontario: A Vibrant Muskoka Community Where Heritage, Lakes & Northern Spirit Come Together

Surrounded by forests, lakes, and rolling Canadian Shield terrain, Huntsville, Ontario is one of Muskoka’s most beloved communities. Known for its natural beauty, historic charm, and year-round cultural life, Huntsville blends small-town warmth with the character of a northern hub.

A Community Shaped by Pioneers, Waterways & Early Industry

Founded in the 1860s, Huntsville grew around the Muskoka River, early sawmills, and rugged farmland carved from the Shield. Water routes, followed later by railways, helped transform the settlement into a regional centre for trade, travel, and community life.

Today, historic buildings, early bridges, and preserved neighbourhoods echo Huntsville’s frontier past.

A Landscape of Lakes, Forests & Northern Vistas

Huntsville is celebrated for its breathtaking natural surroundings, including:

• Fairy Lake, Lake Vernon, Peninsula Lake & Mary Lake
• The Muskoka River system
• Wooded ridges and granite outcroppings
• Scenic country roads and wildlife areas
• Access to Arrowhead and Algonquin Provincial Parks

The region’s landscapes attract visitors and inspire residents year-round.

A Community Built on Creativity, Culture & Local Pride

Huntsville is known for its strong cultural life, supported by:

• Arts, theatre, music, and festivals
• Heritage and historical organizations
• Outdoor recreation and sports programs
• Vibrant downtown shops and cafés
• Volunteer groups and service clubs

This creative energy gives Huntsville its lively and welcoming character.

Heritage Preserved Through Generations

The community honours its past through:

• Historic buildings and waterfront landmarks
• Museums, archives, and guided heritage experiences
• Century cottages and older homesteads
• Long-standing family stories and traditions

These elements strengthen Huntsville’s distinct northern identity.

Agriculture & Rural Living Remain Part of the Region

Although tourism and culture are central to Huntsville today, the surrounding region still supports:

• Small-scale farms
• Livestock and mixed agricultural operations
• Market gardens and local producers
• Rural artisans and homesteaders

This agricultural heritage is proudly celebrated each year at the Huntsville Fall Fair, a cornerstone of the community.

A Natural Companion to the Huntsville Fall Fair

Together, Huntsville and its fair showcase:

• Rural and northern heritage
• Community creativity
• Youth engagement
• Volunteer leadership
• Generational continuity
• Deep connection to nature

A Community Where Nature, Heritage & Northern Spirit Flourish

Whether exploring lakeside trails, strolling through the historic downtown, visiting nearby farms, or celebrating cherished traditions like the Huntsville Fall Fair, Huntsville offers a memorable Muskoka experience, where culture, nature, and community spirit come together beautifully.