About the Fair
A Proud Niagara Tradition Celebrating Agriculture, Homecraft & Community Spirit Since 1871
The West Niagara Fair, hosted by the West Niagara Agricultural Society, stands as one of the most cherished agricultural celebrations in the Niagara Region.
With roots reaching back to 1871, the fair brings together the communities of Grimsby, Lincoln, Smithville, and surrounding rural townships in a shared celebration of agricultural excellence, homecraft heritage, and community pride.
A Fair Built on Rural Foundations & Regional Collaboration
The fair began in the late 19th century, when small-town agricultural societies played a vital role in supporting farmers, advancing livestock knowledge, and strengthening local economies.
Over time, the Grimsby, Lincoln, and Smithville fairs evolved and eventually united under the West Niagara Agricultural Society, creating a strong regional fair that continues to honour its rich heritage.
Early fairs showcased:
- Livestock judging
- Grain, root crop, and vegetable competitions
- Sewing, quilting, and traditional homecrafts
- Displays of rural skills essential to pioneer life
These timeless elements remain central to the fair’s character today.
Agriculture at the Heart of the West Niagara Fair
Agriculture continues to be the foundation of the fair, celebrated through a diverse range of exhibits:
- Dairy and beef cattle
- Sheep, goats, swine, poultry & small livestock
- Field crops, grains, hay, and garden produce
- Rural craftwork, woodworking, and homesteading skills
These exhibits highlight the dedication and expertise of farm families whose work has long shaped Niagara’s agricultural landscape.
The fair’s extensive homecraft division, featuring preserves, baking, quilting, sewing, knitting, horticulture, floral design, art, and youth exhibits, showcases the creativity and craftsmanship that anchor rural community life.
Youth Engagement: A Generational Tradition
Young people have always been a driving force at the West Niagara Fair. Through:
- 4-H clubs
- Junior agricultural competitions
- School exhibits
- Creative arts and homecraft categories
youth are encouraged to develop leadership, responsibility, and hands-on agricultural skills.
Families often participate across multiple generations, strengthening community bonds year after year.
Powered by Volunteers & Regional Commitment
The West Niagara Agricultural Society, supported by hundreds of dedicated volunteers, works year-round to sustain the fair’s proud legacy.
Their efforts, preparing grounds, organizing divisions, supporting exhibitors, and preserving fair traditions, reflect the strong community spirit that defines West Niagara.
A Celebration of Niagara’s Rural Identity
The fair highlights some of the region’s most enduring values:
- Agricultural excellence
- Homecraft heritage
- Youth involvement
- Volunteer leadership
- Generational continuity
- Community pride
A Tradition That Endures
More than 150 years after its beginnings, the West Niagara Fair remains a vibrant celebration honouring the agricultural roots, creative traditions, and regional unity that continue to enrich West Niagara.
About the Community
Grassie, Ontario: A Rural Niagara Community Where Farmland, Heritage & Local Spirit Come Together
Located in the heart of West Lincoln, Grassie is a peaceful and welcoming rural community known for its agricultural strength, friendly atmosphere, and strong ties to regional heritage. With rolling farmland, family-run operations, and a deep connection to Niagara’s countryside, Grassie embodies the timeless character of rural Ontario.
A Community Built on Farming, Family & Early Settlement
Grassie developed in the 19th century as a small agricultural settlement supported by family farms, milling, and local trades.
Its rural identity grew around:
- Dairy and livestock operations
- Fruit and vegetable farms
- Farming families rooted across generations
- Churches, community halls & rural gathering places
Many of these elements remain woven into Grassie’s character today.
A Landscape of Fields, Orchards & Classic Niagara Countryside
Grassie is surrounded by the natural beauty that defines rural Niagara:
- Fertile farmland and pastures
- Orchards, vineyards & specialty crops
- Woodlots and wildlife corridors
- Quiet concession roads and scenic viewpoints
- Rolling terrain shaped by glacial history
This agricultural landscape remains one of Grassie’s greatest strengths.
A Community Known for Strong Involvement & Rural Pride
Residents of Grassie and West Lincoln are active contributors to community life, supporting:
- Local farms and producers
- Service clubs and volunteer groups
- Faith communities
- Youth organizations
- Seasonal gatherings and rural celebrations
This spirit of involvement reflects the warm, cooperative character of the area.
Heritage Preserved Through Generations
Grassie honours its past through:
- Century farms and multi-generational family roots
- Historic churches and community buildings
- Rural archives and local storytelling
- Agricultural traditions that strengthen identity
These heritage elements continue to connect present-day residents with the area’s rural origins.
Agriculture Remains the Community’s Heartbeat
The region supports a diverse agricultural base, including:
- Dairy and beef farms
- Cash crops and hay
- Fruit, vegetable & specialty growers
- Rural artisans and homesteaders
This strong agricultural foundation is celebrated each year at the West Niagara Fair, hosted close to the community Grassie proudly calls home.
A Natural Companion to the West Niagara Fair
Together, Grassie and the fair highlight:
- Rural heritage
- Youth leadership
- Creative homecraft traditions
- Volunteer commitment
- Generational continuity
- Strong community ties
A Community Where Farmland, Heritage & Local Warmth Flourish
Whether exploring its peaceful rural roads, visiting local farms, or celebrating beloved traditions like the West Niagara Fair, Grassie offers a memorable Niagara experience, where agriculture, community spirit, and countryside charm blend beautifully.
