About the Fair

A Grand Norfolk Tradition Celebrating Agriculture, Horses & Community Pride Since 1840

The Norfolk County Fair & Horse Show, hosted by the Norfolk County Agricultural Society, is one of Ontario’s oldest and largest agricultural fairs, proudly running since 1840. For more than 180 years, the fair has stood as a cultural cornerstone of Norfolk County—uniting rural families, horse enthusiasts, and visitors from across the province in a vibrant celebration of agricultural excellence, equestrian heritage, and community spirit.

A Fair Rooted in Early Agriculture & County Identity

The fair began when Simcoe was a growing centre for Norfolk’s thriving agricultural economy, supported by fertile farmland, hardworking settlers, and expanding market opportunities. Agricultural societies played a vital role in supporting farmers, improving livestock quality, and strengthening community connections.

Early Norfolk fairs featured livestock judging, field crop displays, horse competitions, preserves, quilting, sewing, and demonstrations of essential rural skills. These traditions remain integral to the fair today.

Agriculture at the Heart of the Fair

Agriculture continues to define the Norfolk County Fair & Horse Show, showcased through:

• Dairy, beef, and mixed livestock
• Sheep, goats, poultry, and small livestock
• Field crops, grain, hay, vegetables, and garden produce
• Rural crafts, woodworking, and homesteading demonstrations

These exhibits honour the skill and dedication of Norfolk farm families whose leadership continues to sustain the region’s agricultural success.

The fair’s celebrated Homecraft divisions, baking, preserves, sewing, quilting, knitting, floriculture, photography, arts, and youth categories, highlight creativity and rural craftsmanship.

A World-Class Equestrian Tradition

The “Horse Show” portion of the fair has become one of the most respected in Ontario, featuring:

• Heavy horse hitches
• Light horse classes
• Competitive riding and driving events
• Youth equestrian programs
• Showmanship, breeding, and specialty classes

These competitions reflect generations of equestrian heritage deeply rooted in Norfolk County.

Youth Engagement & Generational Pride

The fair is committed to supporting youth through:

• 4-H clubs and competitions
• Junior agricultural divisions
• Student exhibits and creative arts
• Agricultural awareness programs
• Leadership and hands-on learning

Generational involvement, families participating for decades, keeps traditions thriving.

Driven by Volunteers & Community Strength

The Norfolk County Agricultural Society, supported by volunteers, sponsors, exhibitors, and community leaders, works year-round to uphold the fair’s legacy. Their dedication ensures each fair remains a spectacular celebration of heritage and community spirit.

A Celebration of Norfolk’s Rural Values

The fair proudly showcases the county’s strongest qualities:

• Agricultural excellence
• Equestrian heritage
• Youth development
• Creative homecraft traditions
• Community collaboration
• Generational continuity

A Tradition That Endures

More than 180 years after its founding, the Norfolk County Fair & Horse Show remains one of Ontario’s premier agricultural celebrations, honouring the region’s farm roots, equestrian traditions, and proud community spirit.

About the Community

Simcoe, Ontario: A Heart of Norfolk County Where Heritage, Agriculture & Community Life Flourish

Located in the centre of Norfolk County, Simcoe is a warm and dynamic community known for its agricultural heritage, historic downtown, strong local arts culture, and friendly small-town charm. As the county’s largest urban centre, Simcoe blends tradition and modern life in a way that reflects its rural roots and vibrant community spirit.

A Community Built on Farming, Trade & Early County Growth

Simcoe grew throughout the 19th century as a service and trade hub for Norfolk County’s farm communities. Surrounded by rich soil and agricultural innovation, the town developed quickly, drawing merchants, millers, craftsmen, and families who shaped its early identity.

Its heritage buildings, streetscapes, and local archives still reflect this history.

A Landscape of Farmland, Waterways & Rural Beauty

Simcoe is surrounded by some of Ontario’s most fertile and picturesque agricultural countryside:

• Dairy and cattle farms
• Field crops, orchards & specialty produce
• Wooded trails and conservation areas
• Lakes, streams & natural wetlands
• Quiet, scenic country roads

This combination of agricultural landscape and natural beauty gives Simcoe its signature character.

A Community Rich in Culture, Shops & Local Life

Residents and visitors enjoy a lively community filled with:

• Charming downtown shops and cafés
• Historic architecture and cultural attractions
• Arts organizations and seasonal festivals
• Local artisan markets and farm-fresh foods
• Service clubs, sports programs & volunteer groups

Simcoe’s longstanding involvement in community life helps maintain its welcoming spirit.

Heritage Preserved Through Generations

Simcoe honours its past through:

• Restored historic buildings
• Museums and heritage programs
• Family-run businesses passed down over generations
• Rural traditions deeply tied to Norfolk’s farm culture

These elements keep the community’s roots alive in meaningful ways.

Agriculture Remains Essential to Local Life

Norfolk County is one of Ontario’s most diverse agricultural regions, known for:

• Dairy, beef, and mixed livestock
• Cash crops, produce & orchard fruit
• Specialty crops unique to Norfolk’s climate
• Local greenhouses and agricultural innovation

This strong agricultural identity is proudly showcased each year at the Norfolk County Fair & Horse Show, a hallmark of Simcoe’s community life.

A Natural Companion to the Norfolk County Fair & Horse Show

Together, Simcoe and its fair highlight:

• Rural heritage
• Equestrian excellence
• Youth involvement
• Homecraft creativity
• Volunteer dedication
• Generational community pride

A Community Where Agriculture, Heritage & Local Warmth Come Together

Whether exploring downtown shops, enjoying local arts, visiting surrounding farms, or celebrating beloved traditions like the Norfolk County Fair & Horse Show, Simcoe offers a memorable Norfolk County experience, where agriculture, heritage, and community spirit flourish beautifully.