About the Fair
A Proud Carleton Tradition Celebrating Agriculture, Homecraft & Community Spirit Since 1844
The Richmond Fair, hosted by the Richmond Agricultural Society, is one of Ontario’s oldest and most storied fall fairs. Founded in 1844, it has been a cornerstone of rural life in the Carleton region for more than 175 years, connecting families, farmers, and visitors through a shared celebration of agriculture, creative homecrafts, and deep community pride.
A Fair Rooted in Early Settlement & Rural Heritage
The Richmond Fair began when the village of Richmond was a bustling agricultural centre surrounded by family farms, mills, and early businesses. Agricultural societies played a crucial role in shaping rural life, helping farmers improve livestock, exchange knowledge, and strengthen social bonds.
Early fairs showcased livestock judging, field crop competitions, produce displays, preserves, quilting, needlework, and demonstrations of essential homesteading skills. These traditions remain at the fair’s core today.
Agriculture at the Heart of the Richmond Fair
Agriculture continues to be the foundation of the fair, highlighted through:
- Dairy and beef cattle
- Sheep, goats, poultry, and small livestock
- Field crops, grain, hay, vegetables, and garden produce
- Rural craftsmanship, woodworking, and homesteading displays
These exhibits honour the skill and dedication of rural families across the Carleton region.
The homecraft divisions, including preserves, baking, sewing, quilting, knitting, floriculture, photography, arts, and junior categories, celebrate creative expression and long-standing domestic traditions.
Youth Participation & Generational Continuity
Youth involvement is a defining feature of the Richmond Fair. Through 4-H clubs, junior classes, school projects, and agricultural learning programs, young participants develop:
- Leadership and responsibility
- Practical agricultural and homecraft skills
- Creativity and confidence
- An appreciation for rural heritage
- A sense of community belonging
Generational participation helps keep the fair vibrant, with many families exhibiting for decades.
Powered by Volunteers & Long-Standing Community Dedication
The Richmond Agricultural Society, supported by a committed group of volunteers, works tirelessly to preserve and promote the fair each year. Their efforts, organizing exhibits, maintaining fairgrounds, supporting participants, and honouring rural heritage, reflect the deep pride that defines the region.
A Celebration of Carleton County’s Rural Identity
The Richmond Fair highlights the region’s enduring values:
- Agricultural excellence
- Homecraft traditions
- Youth engagement
- Generational involvement
- Volunteer leadership
- Community unity
A Tradition That Endures
Nearly two centuries after its beginning, the Richmond Fair remains one of Ontario’s most cherished rural celebrations, honouring agricultural heritage, creativity, and community spirit in Richmond and the wider Carleton region.
About the Community
Richmond, Ontario: A Historic Village Where Rural Heritage, Community Pride & Small-Town Charm Thrive
Located in the southwestern part of the City of Ottawa, Richmond is a warm and historic village celebrated for its agricultural roots, scenic surroundings, and strong sense of community. With charming streetscapes, deep-set traditions, and a welcoming village atmosphere, Richmond beautifully blends heritage and modern rural living.
A Community Built on Early Military Settlement & Agriculture
Richmond is one of Ontario’s oldest planned communities, founded in 1818 as a military settlement for soldiers returning from the War of 1812. The village quickly became a thriving agricultural and commercial hub, serving the surrounding farms and pioneering families.
Many historic homes, churches, and heritage buildings still reflect Richmond’s early development.
A Landscape of Fields, Rivers & Peaceful Countryside
Richmond is surrounded by the relaxing rural scenery characteristic of the southwest Ottawa region:
- Productive farmland stretching across former Goulbourn Township
- Pastures, hay fields & livestock operations
- The Jock River and its quiet natural banks
- Woodlots and small wetlands
- Scenic concession roads perfect for leisurely drives
These peaceful landscapes remain a defining feature of Richmond’s identity.
A Community Known for Tradition, Involvement & Local Pride
Richmond residents take great pride in their village and support:
- Local shops, cafés & family-run businesses
- Community halls, churches & service clubs
- Recreation programs & youth activities
- Seasonal celebrations & cultural events
- Agricultural organizations & rural associations
This strong community involvement helps keep Richmond’s heritage and traditions thriving.
Heritage Preserved Through Generations
Richmond honours its history through:
- Restored buildings and heritage sites
- Local archives & historical societies
- Multi-generational stories passed down within families
- Traditions tied to farming, village life, and community gatherings
These heritage features provide continuity between Richmond’s past and present.
Agriculture Remains Part of Richmond’s Character
While Richmond has grown as part of Ottawa’s expanding outskirts, agriculture remains core to the region’s identity. Surrounding farms support:
- Dairy & beef cattle
- Sheep & mixed livestock
- Crop production, corn, soybeans, hay & grains
- Market gardens & rural producers
This agricultural strength is proudly celebrated each year at the Richmond Fair, the community’s longest-standing tradition.
A Natural Companion to the Richmond Fair
Together, Richmond and its fair highlight:
- Rural heritage
- Youth involvement
- Homecraft excellence
- Volunteer commitment
- Generational pride
- Strong community spirit
A Village Where Heritage & Rural Warmth Flourish
Whether walking its historic streets, exploring its countryside roads, visiting area farms, or celebrating beloved traditions like the Richmond Fair, Richmond offers a memorable experience, where heritage, charm, and community spirit come together beautifully.
