Arthur Fall Fair
“September 4 – 7, 2025 – “Celebrating “Corn Stalks and Autumn Walks”!“
The Arthur Fall Fair, a cherished tradition since 1856, returns from September 4th to 7th, 2025, embracing the theme “Corn Stalks and Autumn Walks.” This annual event offers a delightful blend of agricultural showcases, family-friendly activities, and live entertainment, reflecting the rich heritage and vibrant community spirit of Arthur, Ontario. (Arthur Fall Fair)
Community Parade and Outdoor Movie
The festivities commence with the much-anticipated Parade, featuring an array of floats, marching bands, and community groups, setting a festive tone for the weekend. Following the parade, attendees can enjoy an Outdoor Movie under the stars, providing a perfect opportunity for families to gather and relax in the evening ambiance. (Arthur Fall Fair)
Agricultural Exhibitions and 4-H Shows
A cornerstone of the fair is its dedication to agriculture. The 4-H Beef Achievement Show and 4-H Dairy Achievement Show highlight the dedication and skills of young farmers, showcasing top-quality livestock. Additionally, the 4-H Livestock Open Shows offer a broader platform for participants to present various animals, emphasizing the fair’s commitment to supporting agricultural education and excellence. (Arthur Fall Fair)
Classic Vehicles and Tractor Displays
Automotive enthusiasts will appreciate the Classic Car, Truck, and Tractor Display, featuring a diverse collection of vintage and modern machinery. This exhibit not only celebrates automotive history but also pays homage to the agricultural equipment that has been integral to the region’s farming legacy.
Family Entertainment and Children’s Activities
The fairgrounds buzz with excitement, offering a plethora of activities designed for younger attendees. Inflatables provide endless fun, while the Children’s Activity Centre engages kids with crafts and interactive games. Unique events like the Kids Power Wheels Demolition Derby and Kids Pedal Tractor Pull allow children to participate in friendly competitions, fostering a sense of community and enjoyment. (Arthur Fall Fair)
Equestrian Events and Animal Shows
Equestrian enthusiasts can look forward to the Western Horse Show, displaying the grace and agility of both horses and riders. The Pet Show invites community members to showcase their beloved animals, adding a personal touch to the festivities. A highlight for many is the Frog Jumping Contest, a lighthearted and entertaining event that has become a fair favorite.
Live Entertainment and Community Engagement
Throughout the fair, attendees can enjoy Live Entertainment, featuring local artists and performers who bring energy and joy to the event. These performances provide a lively backdrop to the fair’s activities, encouraging community engagement and celebration.
Join the Celebration
The 2025 Arthur Fall Fair offers a rich tapestry of events and exhibits that honor the community’s agricultural roots while providing entertainment for all ages. Whether you’re drawn by the livestock shows, eager to participate in children’s activities, or simply looking to enjoy the festive atmosphere, the fair promises a memorable experience. Mark your calendars for September 4th to 7th, 2025, and partake in the celebration of “Corn Stalks and Autumn Walks” in Arthur, Ontario.
History of the Arthur Fall Fair
Written by John F. Walsh and Robert Macdonald
I have read somewhere that the original fall fairs for the Arthur area were not held in Arthur, but in the Kenilworth area. Mr. William McQuinn wrote a history of Arthur and published it in the 1950′s. He stated that the original fairs held in the village took place on a lot approximately six acres in size and located opposite the present Senior Citizens Hall on Isabella Street. The property ran back from Isabella to Eliza Street and is now part of the playground of the old public school.
Mr. Arthur Bristow had forwarded to Mr. McQuinn, a write-up of the first fair in October 1881. It was published in a paper with the title ″Mount Forest Free Press, Arthur, Luther, Proton, Egremont, Normanby and Minto Advocate″. The prize list wasn’t very extensive. The pioneer exhibitors were content with the honour of winning first prize for their exhibits. There were no buildings on the property and it was used for the field lacrosse games that were very popular in those days.
About 1890, The Agricultural Society purchased land in a triangle shape, bordered by Eliza, Domville, and Tucker Street. It was known as the Village Common, as many farmers retiring into the village would bring a cow or two with them from the farm. After the cows were milked in the morning, they would be turned loose to wander up to the common pasture. Mr. McQuinn recalled seeing 30 to 40 cows pasturing here when he was a boy.
In 1896 the society started construction of the half mile oval race track, which was officially opened on Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, June 20, 1897. It proved to be one of the best tracks in Western Ontario. Later a grandstand was built that held at least 600 people, along with a judge’s stand. Horses could be stabled under the grandstand. On Halloween night 1978, the grandstand burned to the ground. The judge’s stand was taken down in 1995 or 1996 because it had become unsafe. The early 1980’s saw the last horse races held at the fair. In the early 1920’s the Agricultural Society built an agricultural hall on the grounds. Contractor John Ashwood of Kenilworth was hired to build the arena at a cost of $2.90 a square yard, the Agricultural Society provided the gravel and cement. Some material was salvaged from and old arena on Frederick St. The total cost of the project, including drilling a well was $15,000.00. This building served as the arena for over 50 years, until it was condemned in 1976. The new arena complex, costing $750,000.00, consisting of an ice pad, lacrosse floor, and two halls and meeting rooms was built across the parking lot in 1977.The Arthur Curling club purchased the old ice pad and erected a building over it for their use.
In 1956, stone gate posts were presented by the Ontario Dept. of Agriculture in recognition of 100 years of service and to honour the pioneers of the community, and all those who, during the past 100 years had served the cause of Agriculture in the Arthur Area. Many of the stones used in the construction of the posts were from the foundation of the United Church shed.
In 1958, the Agricultural Society “sold” the property over to the Village of Arthur for a $1.00, to be used as a recreation centre, with the agreement that the Agricultural Society would have the use of the grounds and facilities for a total of 16 free days each year. Due to amalgamation that agreement is now with the Township of Wellington North. In the 1980’s a barn was erected for use during the cattle shows and in the 1990’s a 100′ x 200′ ring was put in for the horse shows.
Presently the Arthur Fall Fair is held in September on the weekend following Labour Day, making full use of the centre as well as the grounds.
With the arena, curling club, ball diamonds and the swimming pool on the old Village common grounds, it is usually the most popular spot in the community.
