About the Fair
A Peterborough County Tradition Celebrating Agriculture, Homecraft & Community Pride Since 1867
The Norwood Fall Fair, hosted by the Norwood Agricultural Society, has been one of Peterborough County’s most cherished rural traditions since 1867. For more than 150 years, this Thanksgiving-weekend fair has brought together families, farmers, and visitors to celebrate agricultural excellence, homecraft creativity, and the strong community spirit that defines Norwood and the surrounding region.
A Fair Rooted in Early Settlement & Agricultural Heritage
The fair began just after Confederation, during a time when the Norwood area was expanding with new farms, mills, rural businesses, and a steadily growing village centre. Agricultural societies played a major role in improving farm practices, showcasing livestock quality, and serving as social hubs for surrounding rural families.
Early Norwood fairs included cattle and horse competitions, produce displays, preserves, sewing and quilting, and demonstrations of essential homesteading skills, many of which remain beloved traditions today.
Agriculture at the Heart of the Norwood Fall Fair
Agriculture continues to shape the fair’s identity, showcased through wide-ranging exhibits including:
- Dairy and beef cattle
- Sheep, goats, poultry, and small livestock
- Field crops, hay, grain, vegetables, and garden produce
- Woodworking, rural craftsmanship, and homesteading demonstrations
These exhibits honour the skill and dedication of local farm families who have long contributed to Peterborough County’s agricultural strength.
The homecraft divisions, including preserves, baking, sewing, quilting, knitting, floriculture, photography, art, and junior entries, highlight the creativity and domestic traditions that enrich rural life.
Youth Engagement & Generational Roots
Youth participation has always been central to the Norwood Fall Fair. Through 4-H clubs, junior categories, school displays, and educational agricultural programs, young exhibitors learn:
- Leadership and responsibility
- Hands-on farm and homecraft skills
- Creativity and teamwork
- Agricultural literacy
- Community involvement and pride
Generational families often return year after year, preserving traditions and strengthening local identity.
Built by Volunteers & Supported by Community Pride
The Norwood Agricultural Society, supported by an enthusiastic team of volunteers, works tirelessly to organize the fair. Their dedication, preparing the grounds, supporting exhibitors, coordinating competitions, and preserving heritage, reflects the deep community spirit that has always defined Norwood.
A Celebration of Peterborough County’s Rural Values
The Norwood Fall Fair proudly showcases:
- Agricultural excellence
- Homecraft creativity
- Youth involvement
- Generational continuity
- Volunteer leadership
- Community unity
A Tradition That Endures
More than 150 years after its founding, the Norwood Fall Fair remains a treasured celebration, honouring the agricultural roots, creative traditions, and community pride that continue to enrich Norwood and rural Peterborough County.
About the Community
Norwood, Ontario: A Friendly Peterborough County Village Where Heritage, Countryside & Community Spirit Thrive
Located east of Peterborough along the Trent River corridor, Norwood is a welcoming rural village known for its agricultural roots, rolling landscapes, and vibrant small-town character. With a charming main street, historic buildings, and strong community connections, Norwood reflects the heart of rural eastern Ontario.
A Community Built on Settlement, Farming & Early Commerce
Norwood’s origins date back to the mid-19th century, when farms, mills, blacksmith shops, and general stores shaped the growing settlement. Its position along early transportation routes made it an important service centre for surrounding agricultural families.
Today, historic homes, well-preserved storefronts, and family-run businesses offer reminders of the village’s proud heritage.
A Landscape of Fields, Trails & Trent Hills Beauty
The area surrounding Norwood is known for its striking rural scenery, including:
- Productive farmland and pasture
- Forested areas and wildlife habitat
- Rolling hills characteristic of the Trent Valley
- Scenic country roads and concession routes
- Nearby rivers, lakes, and wetlands
This combination of farmland and natural landscape gives Norwood a peaceful, welcoming feel.
A Community Known for Involvement & Local Pride
Residents of Norwood are actively engaged in village life. They support:
- Local shops, eateries, and artisans
- Service clubs and volunteer organizations
- Recreation programs and sports associations
- Cultural and seasonal celebrations
- Agricultural groups and longstanding rural traditions
This involvement creates a close-knit, supportive community atmosphere.
Heritage Preserved Through Generations
Norwood honours its past through:
- Restored heritage buildings
- Local history initiatives and archives
- Long-standing family farms
- Traditions rooted in agriculture and rural craftsmanship
These historic features form the foundation of Norwood’s enduring identity.
Agriculture Remains a Cornerstone of the Region
The surrounding countryside supports a diverse agricultural base, including:
- Dairy and beef operations
- Mixed livestock farms
- Grain, hay, and cash-crop production
- Market gardens and small producers
This rural foundation is celebrated each year at the Norwood Fall Fair, the community’s most iconic annual tradition.
A Natural Companion to the Fair
Together, Norwood and its fair showcase:
- Agricultural heritage
- Youth involvement
- Homecraft creativity
- Volunteer dedication
- Generational pride
- Community unity
A Community Where Rural Roots & Local Warmth Endure
Whether walking its friendly streets, visiting nearby farms, exploring scenic country roads, or celebrating beloved traditions like the Norwood Fall Fair, Norwood offers a memorable Peterborough County experience, where heritage, countryside charm, and community spirit come together beautifully.
