About the Fair

A Scugog Tradition Celebrating Agriculture, Community Heritage & Rural Pride

The Port Perry Fair, organized by the Scugog Agricultural Society, is one of Durham Region’s longest-running rural celebrations. With its roots dating back to the 19th century, the fair continues to honour agricultural excellence, creative craftsmanship, and the strong community connections that define Port Perry and the Township of Scugog.

A Fair with Deep Agricultural Roots

The Port Perry Fair began in the 1850s, a period when agricultural societies across Ontario were forming to support rural communities and promote better farming practices. These fairs provided a vital gathering place for farm families to share knowledge, display their accomplishments, and strengthen neighbourly ties.

With its location along Lake Scugog and its growing role as a commercial and milling centre, Port Perry quickly became a natural host. Early fairs featured livestock judging, produce displays, grain competitions, and homecraft exhibits, all reflecting the hard work and resilience of local settlers.

Agriculture at the Heart of the Fair

Agriculture remains central to the Port Perry Fair’s legacy. Local farmers continue to showcase:

• Dairy and beef cattle
• Sheep, goats, and small livestock
• Field crops, vegetables, and hay
• Rural craftsmanship, woodworking, and heritage skills

These displays highlight the region’s longstanding agricultural traditions and the dedication of Scugog’s farm families.

Homecraft divisions have also remained a key part of the fair. Exhibits in quilting, baking, preserves, sewing, needlework, floriculture, photography, and junior crafts showcase the creativity and domestic arts that have flourished in rural communities for generations.

Youth Involvement & Generational Continuity

The Port Perry Fair places strong emphasis on youth. Through 4-H participation, junior classes, school exhibits, and hands-on agricultural learning, young people gain:

• Leadership experience
• Agricultural understanding
• Creative and practical skills
• A sense of belonging and heritage pride

Many families have participated in the fair for generations, contributing to its strong multigenerational identity.

A Fair Powered by Volunteers

The Scugog Agricultural Society and its volunteers are the backbone of the fair. Their year-round dedication, planning competitions, preparing grounds, preserving traditions, and engaging exhibitors, ensures that the fair remains vibrant and meaningful.

Their work reflects the spirit of cooperation and community pride that has defined Port Perry for decades.

A Reflection of Port Perry’s Rural Identity

The fair embodies the values that shape the region:

• Agricultural excellence
• Community cooperation
• Creative craftsmanship
• Volunteer leadership
• Youth involvement
• Rural heritage and resilience

These qualities help maintain the Port Perry Fair as one of Durham Region’s most significant rural traditions.

A Tradition That Endures

Through eras of change, the Port Perry Fair remains a cherished celebration of local agriculture, creativity, and community spirit, connecting the township’s past to its vibrant present.

About the Community

Port Perry, Ontario: A Scenic Lakefront Community Rich in Heritage, Rural Character & Small-Town Warmth

Situated on the northern shore of Lake Scugog, Port Perry, Ontario is a picturesque and welcoming community known for its beautiful waterfront, heritage downtown, and strong rural roots. As the heart of the Township of Scugog, Port Perry blends natural charm, history, and community pride into a uniquely vibrant rural Ontario experience.

A Community Founded on Water, Mills & Early Industry

Port Perry traces its origins to the mid-1800s, when settlers were drawn to the fertile land and waterway connections of Lake Scugog. The community quickly grew into a bustling centre for milling, agriculture, and trade.

The arrival of the Port Whitby and Port Perry Railway in the 19th century strengthened the town’s role as a regional hub, allowing farmers and businesses to transport goods more easily. Heritage buildings along Queen Street still reflect the prosperity of this era, with well-preserved storefronts and brick architecture.

A Landscape Shaped by Lake & Countryside

Port Perry’s scenic setting is one of its greatest attractions. The community is surrounded by:

• The calm waters of Lake Scugog
• Rolling farmland and open fields
• Woodlots and rural nature areas
• Quiet country roads leading into Scugog Township
• Beautiful lakefront views and walking routes

This mix of water and countryside creates a relaxing, small-town atmosphere.

A Warm & Engaged Community

Port Perry is known for its friendly spirit and strong sense of involvement. Residents participate in:

• Community organizations
• Arts and cultural groups
• Heritage associations
• Recreational programs
• Seasonal events and rural traditions

Local shops, restaurants, cafés, and lakeside parks make the town centre both welcoming and lively.

A Heritage Downtown with Lasting Character

The downtown core of Port Perry features:

• Well-preserved Victorian-era buildings
• Independent boutiques and artisan shops
• Restaurants and cafés with lake views
• Cultural venues and community spaces
• A walkable streetscape rich in charm and history

The combination of heritage architecture and scenic lakefront makes downtown Port Perry feel both timeless and vibrant.

Agriculture Remains Central to the Region

While Port Perry has grown as a service and cultural centre, agriculture remains the backbone of the surrounding township. Local farms contribute to:

• Dairy and beef production
• Field crops and hay
• Mixed livestock operations
• Rural craftsmanship and homesteading traditions

These agricultural roots shape community values and are celebrated each year at the Port Perry Fair.

A Natural Partner to the Port Perry Fair

The fair reflects the community’s strongest qualities:

• Pride in agricultural heritage
• Youth involvement
• Creative homecraft traditions
• Dedicated volunteers
• Multigenerational ties
• Community cooperation

Together, Port Perry and its fair tell a complete and meaningful story of rural identity and community resilience.

A Beautiful Lakefront Community with Heart

Whether strolling the waterfront, exploring historic streets, visiting local shops, or celebrating long-standing traditions like the Port Perry Fair, Port Perry offers a warm and memorable Ontario experience.

It is a community where heritage is preserved, where agriculture remains important, and where community spirit thrives in every season.