About the Fair

A Proud Grenville County Tradition Celebrating Agriculture, Homecraft & Community Spirit Since 1855

The Spencerville Fair, hosted by the Spencerville Agricultural Society, has been one of Eastern Ontario’s most enduring rural traditions since 1855. For more than 165 years, the fair has brought together generations of farm families, volunteers, and community members to celebrate agricultural excellence, homecraft creativity, and the strong sense of rural pride that defines the Spencerville area.

A Fair Rooted in Pioneer Farms & Early Community Life

The fair began during a period of steady settlement across Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Township, when mills, farms, and local trades supported a growing rural population. Agricultural societies played an essential role in those early years — helping farmers improve livestock, share new farming practices, and build lasting community ties.

Early fairs featured livestock judging, grain competitions, vegetables, preserves, handcrafts, and demonstrations of essential homesteading skills. These foundational elements continue to anchor today’s Spencerville Fair.

Agriculture at the Core of the Spencerville Fair

Agriculture remains the heart of the fair, represented through a wide range of competitive and educational exhibits:

• Dairy and beef cattle
• Sheep, goats, poultry, and small livestock
• Field crops, hay, grain, vegetables, and garden produce
• Woodworking, rural crafts, and homesteading demonstrations

These exhibits honour the dedication and expertise of the agricultural families who have shaped Grenville County’s rural landscape for generations.

The homecraft divisions,  including baking, preserves, sewing, quilting, knitting, floriculture, photography, art, and junior categories, reflect the creativity and domestic traditions that enrich rural life.

Youth Engagement & Generational Continuity

Youth involvement is a cornerstone of the Spencerville Fair. Through 4-H clubs, school exhibits, junior classes, and agricultural learning programs, young people gain:

• Leadership skills
• Hands-on agricultural experience
• Confidence and creativity
• Community pride
• A deep understanding of rural heritage

Many families participate across multiple generations, helping maintain the fair’s warm, community-based character.

Powered by Volunteers & Community Pride

The Spencerville Agricultural Society, supported by countless volunteers, works tirelessly year-round to plan, maintain, and host the fair. Their efforts, organizing exhibits, preparing grounds, supporting entrants, and promoting agricultural education,  reflect the strong community spirit that has always defined Spencerville.

A Celebration of Grenville County’s Rural Identity

The Spencerville Fair proudly showcases:

• Agricultural achievement
• Creative homecraft traditions
• Youth involvement
• Volunteer leadership
• Generational heritage
• Community unity

A Tradition That Endures

More than a century and a half after its founding, the Spencerville Fair remains a cherished celebration, honouring agricultural heritage, rural creativity, and the deep community spirit that continues to enrich Spencerville and the surrounding township.

About the Community

Spencerville, Ontario: A Historic Grenville County Village Where Heritage, Countryside & Community Spirit Flourish

Situated along the scenic South Nation River, Spencerville is a charming historic village in Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Township, known for its preserved heritage buildings, peaceful rural surroundings, and strong community pride. With its picturesque main street, timeless architecture, and welcoming small-town atmosphere, Spencerville proudly reflects the character of Eastern Ontario’s rural communities.

A Community Built on Mills, River Trade & Early Settlement

Spencerville’s roots trace back to the early 1800s, when a gristmill and sawmill powered by the river helped establish the village as a local economic centre. Shops, blacksmiths, farms, and family-run businesses soon followed, contributing to a growing rural community.

Many stone and brick heritage buildings still line the village, offering a glimpse into its industrious past.

A Landscape of River Views, Farmland & Country Roads

Spencerville is surrounded by a beautiful mix of natural and rural scenery:

• The tranquil South Nation River
• Productive farmland and open fields
• Conservation areas and forested spaces
• Quiet concession roads ideal for scenic country drives
• Wildlife-rich natural corridors

This blend of river, farmland, and forest gives the village its distinct character and peaceful charm.

A Community Grounded in Local Involvement & Pride

Spencerville residents are active contributors to community life. They support:

• Local shops and artisan businesses
• Service clubs and volunteer organizations
• Cultural events and historical preservation initiatives
• Recreational programs and youth activities
• Agricultural and rural traditions

This dedication helps nurture the village’s welcoming, neighbourly atmosphere.

Heritage Preserved Through Generations

The community proudly maintains its rural and historical identity through:

• Beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings
• Local archives and heritage groups
• Multi-generational farm families
• Traditions tied to agriculture, creativity, and rural craftsmanship

These elements connect modern-day Spencerville to its meaningful past.

Agriculture Remains Central to Local Life

The surrounding region continues to support a strong agricultural base, including:

• Dairy and beef operations
• Mixed livestock farms
• Cash crop fields
• Market gardens and small producers

This agricultural foundation is celebrated each year at the Spencerville Fair, one of the village’s most longstanding traditions.

A Natural Companion to the Spencerville Fair

Together, Spencerville and its fair highlight:

• Rural heritage
• Homecraft excellence
• Youth engagement
• Volunteer dedication
• Generational continuity
• Strong community pride

A Community Where Heritage, Countryside & Local Warmth Come Together

Whether exploring its historic main street, enjoying riverfront scenery, visiting nearby farms, or celebrating beloved traditions like the Spencerville Fair, Spencerville offers a memorable Grenville County experience, where heritage, countryside charm, and community spirit flourish beautifully.