Highgate Fair
“September 27, 2025 – “Family Fun for Everyone!“
The 2025 Highgate Fair is set to take place on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the Highgate Fairgrounds, located at 271 Queen Street, Highgate, Ontario. Established in 1854, this cherished fair celebrates its 171st year, offering a delightful mix of agricultural showcases, family-friendly entertainment, and community spirit.
Agricultural Exhibits and 4-H Displays
Agriculture remains at the heart of the fair. The 4-H Achievement Displays highlight the dedication of local youth and the quality of livestock in the region. These exhibits celebrate the agricultural arts that have been a staple of the fair since its inception.
Family-Friendly Entertainment and Activities
Families will find plenty to enjoy throughout the fair. The Bubble Zone, Children’s Activities, Children’s Pedal Pull, and Mini Tractor Pull provide fun and excitement for children. These activities offer engaging experiences for children and families alike.
Live Entertainment and Community Gatherings
Evenings at the fair are filled with lively entertainment. Live Music performances by local artists provide a festive atmosphere, inviting attendees to dance and celebrate. Throughout the fair, various acts ensure continuous enjoyment for all visitors. These performances add to the vibrant and communal spirit of the event.
Homecrafts and Science Displays
Inside the exhibition halls, visitors can explore an array of Homecraft Exhibits, showcasing local talents in baking, quilting, preserves, and crafts. The Science Displays and Demonstrations offer educational and interactive experiences, emphasizing the importance of science in the community. These exhibits celebrate the domestic arts and scientific curiosity that have been a staple of the fair since its inception.
Join the Celebration
The 2025 Highgate Fair offers a rich tapestry of events and exhibits that honor the area’s agricultural heritage and community spirit. Whether you’re a long-time attendee or a first-time visitor, the fair provides an opportunity to connect with the traditions that have shaped Highgate. Mark your calendars for September 27, and be part of this cherished celebration at the Highgate Fairgrounds.
History of the Highgate Fair
The Highgate Fair, organized by the Highgate District Agricultural Society (HDAS), is one of Ontario’s longest-running agricultural fairs, with a rich history dating back to 1854. Celebrating its 171st edition in 2025, the fair continues to be a vibrant celebration of rural life, community spirit, and agricultural heritage in the village of Highgate, Ontario.
🐄 Origins and Early Years (1854–1865)
The fair’s roots trace back to the mid-19th century when Howard and Orford townships collaborated to host joint agricultural exhibitions. From 1857 to 1865, the fair rotated among local communities like Morpeth, Clearville, Ridgetown, and Duart. These early events featured livestock competitions, ploughing matches, and displays of domestic crafts, with prize money awarded in pounds, shillings, and pence .
🏛 Establishment in Highgate (Post-1865)
After 1865, the fair found a permanent home in Highgate. A dedicated fair hall was constructed, which, despite damage from a cyclone in 1906, was rebuilt and expanded in 1926. The fairgrounds became a central hub for showcasing agricultural advancements and community achievements .
🎉 Traditions and Community Engagement
Over the years, the Highgate Fair has introduced various events and competitions, including:
- Livestock shows featuring cattle, sheep, and poultry
- Homecraft and baking competitions
- Children’s activities like pedal pulls and face painting
- Parades showcasing local organizations and floats
- Live entertainment and demonstrations
These activities have fostered community involvement and celebrated the region’s agricultural roots.
🎂 Milestone Celebrations
In 2024, the fair celebrated its 170th anniversary, marking over a century and a half of continuous operation. The event featured a parade, pie auction, and various family-friendly activities, drawing attendees from across the region .
📅 Looking Ahead to 2025
The 171st Highgate Fair is scheduled for Saturday, September 27, 2025. With the theme “Family Fun for Everyone”, the fair promises a day filled with traditional exhibits, entertainment, and community camaraderie .
