Palmerston Fair
“August 22 – 24, 2025 – It Takes a Community to Make a Great Fair!“
Get ready for a weekend of country charm, big laughs, and heartfelt community spirit at the 2025 Palmerston Fair, taking place from August 22nd to 24th. Established in 1857, this year marks 168 years of bringing families, farmers, and friends together to celebrate everything that makes rural life special. The 2025 theme, “It Takes a Community,” perfectly reflects the teamwork, tradition, and togetherness that make this fair a true hometown favourite.
Whether you’re cheering at a parade, racing a zucchini, or sampling local goods, the Palmerston Fair is packed with fun for all ages—and this year’s lineup is better than ever!
A Weekend of Fun, Farming, and Family
The fair kicks off in festive fashion with the Parade, filling the streets with colourful floats, marching bands, farm vehicles, and community pride. As you make your way onto the fairgrounds, head over to the Children’s Village, where kids can enjoy games, crafts, and interactive play in a fun, safe environment.
Shopping fans will love exploring the Tailgate Garage Sale and Farmers’ Market, where local vendors showcase everything from handmade crafts and baked goods to fresh produce and antiques. For tractor buffs and nostalgic types, the Tractor Show is a must-see, featuring classic and vintage models in all their shining glory.
Family-Friendly Competitions & Rural Fun
Let your competitive side shine with the hilarious and crowd-pleasing Zucchini Races, or watch as kids and their adorable pets take the spotlight during the Pet Show and Baby Show. For a more hands-on challenge, try your luck in the Cornhole Tournament, or sign up for the Mini Excavator Games and show off your precision operating skills!
Rural skills and strength are on full display during the Farmer Olympics, where participants compete in quirky agricultural-themed events that are as entertaining to watch as they are to play. The Mechanical Bull adds a wild twist to the festivities—hold on tight!
Horses, Dogs, and Community Spirit
The exciting Ranch Horse Demonstration is a highlight for equestrian fans, showcasing the agility, intelligence, and training of working ranch horses. Dog lovers will adore the Ruff Dog Agility Show, as talented pups navigate courses with speed, skill, and plenty of tail wags.
Live Music, Local Flavour & Famous Roast Beef Supper
The Live Entertainment and Live Music will keep toes tapping all weekend long, with performances from local artists and bands lighting up the stage. Relax and enjoy the show in the Beer Gardens, the perfect spot to unwind with friends.
And of course, no visit to the Palmerston Fair is complete without the Famous Roast Beef Supper—a beloved tradition where the community comes together to enjoy a hearty meal and great conversation.
Join Us in 2025 – Because “It Takes a Community!”
From farm fun to family favourites, the 2025 Palmerston Fair promises a weekend full of laughter, learning, and lasting memories. See you August 22nd to 24th, where the heart of the community comes alive!
History of the Palmerston Fair
The first fairs that were held in Palmerston from 1879 – 1896 were sponsored by the Palmerston Horticultural Society, until Ministry cutbacks forced them to cease.
On Jan. 13, 1897 the Palmerston and North Wallace Agricultural Society was formed. They purchased the land for the fairgrounds that year. Over the years there were various additions made including a racetrack and grandstand (no longer there).
The yellow barn at the entrance to the Community Centre was moved to the community centre property. All of the exhibits were displayed there, on 2 levels, until the arena was built.
The society has contributed to the town through many donations. In 1961 land for a ball diamond, currently known as the Barb Wright ball diamond was donated. In 1967 a swimming pool was built. This land was returned when the present pool was built.
In 1976 the largest donation, worth $60,000 at the time, was made for the Palmerston Community Complex.
In 1996 , in conjunction with a neighbouring landowner, land and access to it was supplied for a second ball diamond. The local soccer club also uses the grounds for their games.
In recent years we have held some popular special events. The Palmerston Toy Show was held from 1987 – 1995. The Western Ontario Sheep Dog Trial had a 10 year run from 1994 – 2003.
