Maberly Fair

“August 23, 2025 – A Proud Tradition of Agriculture, Community, and Country Fun!“

The Maberly Fair returns on Saturday, August 23rd, 2025, for another action-packed day of agriculture, entertainment, and small-town charm! First held in 1883, this beloved annual event celebrates 142 years of rural heritage and continues to bring people together to enjoy the very best of Eastern Ontario’s farming community and family fun.

Whether you’re drawn by the rhythmic clink of horseshoes, the energy of the livestock rings, or the thrill of the zucchini races, the 2025 Maberly Fair promises something for everyone—from young children to lifelong fairgoers.

Rural Traditions in the Spotlight

At the heart of the fair are its livestock and equestrian events, highlighting the vital role agriculture plays in the community. This year’s fair includes a wide variety of Cattle, Sheep, Swine, and Poultry Shows, where local farmers and 4-H youth proudly showcase their finest animals. These events offer visitors a chance to connect with farm life and learn more about animal care and responsible farming practices.

Equine events are always a major draw, and the Light Horse and Pony Show will dazzle spectators with graceful movement, precise riding, and strong bonds between horse and rider. For fans of raw strength and teamwork, the Horse Draw and Pony Pull are must-see competitions where heavy horses and ponies compete to pull weighted loads, a true testament to rural power and tradition.

Classic Fun and Quirky Competitions

A fair wouldn’t be complete without some lighthearted competition—and the Zucchini Races are exactly that! Kids (and grownups, too) decorate zucchinis, attach wheels, and send them down custom-built tracks in this quirky, fast-paced race. It’s a perfect blend of creativity and chaos, and one of the fair’s most beloved events.

The Antique Farm Machinery Display offers a fascinating look at the tools and equipment that once powered Ontario’s farms. These machines, carefully preserved and displayed by local collectors, serve as a living history lesson and a nod to generations of hard work.

Homecrafts and Entertainment for All

Step into the exhibit hall to view the Homecraft Exhibits, where community members display their skills in baking, preserving, quilting, knitting, flower arranging, photography, and more. Each entry reflects the time, talent, and pride of its creator.

Throughout the day, enjoy a full schedule of Live Music and Entertainment, with local performers taking to the stage to keep the fairgrounds lively and the crowd tapping their toes. From folk and country tunes to family-friendly acts, the fair’s entertainment lineup captures the spirit of the region.

Celebrate Community at the 2025 Maberly Fair!

Whether you’re admiring livestock, entering your famous jam in the Homecraft competition, or racing a zucchini down the track, the Maberly Fair is the place to be on August 23rd, 2025. Come celebrate 142 years of rural tradition, fun, and community pride in Maberly!

History of the Maberly Fair

The Maberly Fair, held in the charming village of Maberly, Ontario, has a proud history dating back to 1883. Organized by the Maberly Agricultural Society, the fair was established to support and celebrate the agricultural way of life in Lanark County, offering a gathering place for farmers, families, and community members to come together in the spirit of harvest and rural pride.

In its earliest days, the fair featured classic agricultural competitions such as livestock shows, field crops, garden produce, baking, preserves, sewing, and crafts. It quickly became a highlight of the farming calendar, giving local residents a chance to display their hard work and connect with neighbours before the busy fall season.

Throughout the 20th century, the Maberly Fair evolved to include more family-friendly events, such as children’s games, horse and pony shows, live music, parades, educational displays, and local artisan markets. Despite its relatively small size, the fair has always been known for its warm community spirit and high level of participation.

The fairgrounds in Maberly serve as a welcoming site each August, bringing generations of families together and showcasing everything from rural skills to creative talents. The fair also celebrates themes each year, focusing on different aspects of farming, rural heritage, or environmental awareness.

Now with over 140 years of history, the Maberly Fair remains a beloved rural tradition, kept alive by passionate volunteers and a supportive community. It stands as a reminder of the enduring importance of small-town fairs in preserving agricultural heritage, fostering community connection, and having a whole lot of good old-fashioned fun.