About the Fair

A Northumberland County Tradition Celebrating Agriculture, Homecraft & Community Pride Since 1850

The Warkworth Fall Fair, proudly presented by the Percy Agricultural Society, has been a cornerstone of rural life in Northumberland County since 1851. For more than 170 years, this long-standing fair has brought together families, farmers, and visitors to celebrate agricultural excellence, creative homecrafts, and the strong community bonds that define Warkworth and the Trent Hills region.

A Fair Rooted in Pioneer Farms & Early Community Life

The fair began during Warkworth’s early years as a vibrant farming village. At the time, agricultural societies played an essential role in supporting pioneer life, helping farmers improve livestock, share practical knowledge, and build strong rural communities.

Early fairs featured livestock judging, grain competitions, vegetable exhibits, preserves, quilting, sewing, and demonstrations of daily homesteading skills. These core traditions remain proudly woven into the fair’s identity today.

Agriculture at the Heart of the Warkworth Fall Fair

Agriculture continues to be the fair’s foundation, represented through a wide range of exhibits and competitions:

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

These displays honour the dedication, skill, and resilience of the farm families who have shaped rural Northumberland for generations.

The homecraft divisions, including baking, preserves, sewing, quilting, knitting, floriculture, photography, arts, and junior categories, celebrate the domestic creativity and craftsmanship that are central to rural life.

Youth Involvement & Generational Strength

Youth participation has always been one of the Warkworth Fall Fair’s greatest strengths. Through 4-H clubs, junior divisions, school exhibits, and hands-on agricultural learning, young people gain:

• Leadership and teamwork
• Practical agricultural and homecraft knowledge
• Confidence and creativity
• A meaningful connection to rural heritage

Generational involvement, often spanning grandparents, parents, and children, helps to keep fair traditions vibrant and alive.

Powered by Volunteers & Deep Community Commitment

The Percy Agricultural Society, supported by many dedicated volunteers, works tirelessly year-round to preserve and promote the fair. Their efforts, organizing exhibits, supporting exhibitors, maintaining fairgrounds, and celebrating rural heritage, reflect the strong community pride that defines Warkworth.

A Celebration of Rural Northumberland’s Identity

The Warkworth Fall Fair proudly showcases:

• Agricultural achievement
• Creative homecraft traditions
• Youth engagement
• Volunteer leadership
• Generational continuity
• Community unity

A Tradition That Endures

More than 170 years after its founding, the Warkworth Fall Fair remains a beloved celebration, honouring agricultural roots, community spirit, and the traditions that continue to enrich Warkworth and the broader Trent Hills region.

About the Community

Warkworth, Ontario: A Charming Trent Hills Community Where Heritage, Creativity & Rural Spirit Flourish

Located in the scenic rolling countryside of Trent Hills, Warkworth is one of Northumberland County’s most charming rural communities, celebrated for its artistic culture, agricultural heritage, and strong sense of local pride. With its historic downtown, thriving creative scene, and welcoming atmosphere, Warkworth offers an inviting blend of tradition and modern rural energy.

A Community Rooted in Heritage, Farming & Early Settlement

Founded in the mid-1800s, Warkworth grew as a service centre for surrounding farms, mills, and small industries. Its early prosperity brought shops, churches, and community halls that soon became gathering places for rural families.

Historic brick buildings, classic storefronts, and well-preserved heritage homes continue to reflect the century-old charm of Warkworth’s village core.

A Landscape of Rolling Hills, Farms & Country Roads

Warkworth is surrounded by some of Northumberland County’s most picturesque countryside:

• Rolling pastureland and mixed farmland
• Woodlots, valleys & natural wildlife habitat
• Quiet concession roads ideal for scenic drives
• Artisan farms, maple stands & small rural producers
• Stunning views across the Trent Hills landscape

This combination of natural beauty and agricultural tradition defines the character of the region.

A Community Known for Art, Creativity & Local Engagement

Warkworth has earned a reputation as a creative rural hub. Residents and local organizations support:

• Artisan shops, galleries & craft studios
• The Warkworth Maple Syrup Festival
• Music, culture & seasonal village events
• Community halls, volunteer groups & service clubs
• Local farmers, producers & small businesses

This vibrant mix of arts and rural tradition gives the village its unique charm.

Heritage Preserved Through Generations

Warkworth proudly preserves its history through:

• Local museums & historical archives
• Restored heritage buildings & landmarks
• Long-standing family farms
• Community traditions passed from one generation to the next

These elements help maintain Warkworth’s sense of identity and cultural continuity.

Agriculture Remains Central to Local Life

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

• Dairy & beef operations
• Mixed livestock farms
• Grain, hay & cash crop production
• Maple syrup producers
• Rural artisans & homesteaders

This agricultural heritage is proudly celebrated each September at the Warkworth Fall Fair, one of the community’s longest-standing traditions.

A Natural Companion to the Warkworth Fall Fair

Together, Warkworth and its fair highlight:

• Rural heritage
• Youth involvement
• Homecraft excellence
• Volunteer leadership
• Generational continuity
• Community pride

A Community Where Creativity, Countryside & Local Spirit Come Together

Whether exploring the artisan studios, enjoying the maple syrup festival, visiting local farms, or celebrating cherished traditions like the Warkworth Fall Fair, Warkworth offers a memorable Trent Hills experience, where heritage, creativity, and rural warmth blend beautifully.

🌾 Explore Nearby Agritourism Experiences

Visitors attending the Warkworth Fair may also enjoy exploring nearby agritourism experiences and attractions in Northumberland County and the Kawarthas Northumberland region.

• Warkworth Farmers’ Market – Warkworth – a seasonal market offering fresh produce, baked goods, artisan foods, and local products
• Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge – Campbellford area – a scenic attraction featuring forest trails and river views
• Empire Cheese Co-operative – Campbellford – a historic cheese factory destination known for local dairy traditions
• Ferris Provincial Park – Campbellford – a scenic outdoor destination offering trails, camping, and countryside exploration

Some nearby experiences include links to additional Ontario Agritourism Showcase pages with more visitor information.

Visitors interested in Ontario agricultural fairs may also enjoy exploring events such as the Port Hope Fair and the Lindsay Exhibition, each celebrating the farming traditions and community heritage of Central and Eastern Ontario.