Port Perry Fair
“August 30 – September 1, 2025 – “Labour Day Weekend of Country Fun and Community Spirit!“
The 2025 Port Perry Fair promises an unforgettable weekend of thrills, tradition, and down-home charm as it returns to celebrate another Labour Day in true country style. Taking place from August 30th to September 1st, the fair offers a vibrant mix of agricultural showcases, motorsports, competitions, live music, and family entertainment. It’s a celebration of community spirit that has become a cherished end-of-summer tradition in Durham Region.
Agricultural Pride and Livestock Competitions
At the heart of the Port Perry Fair is its proud agricultural heritage. Spectators can enjoy a full schedule of livestock events, including the 4-H Beef Show Commercial Beef Class, the Beef Cattle Show, the 4-H Dairy Show, and the Junior Dairy Show. The prestigious Ontario County Holstein Show showcases the best of local dairy farming, while the Beef Auction gives fairgoers a chance to support the youth involved in 4-H. These events are not only exciting to watch but also highlight the dedication and skill of local farmers and young agricultural leaders.
Fairground Fun and Midway Magic
The Midway delivers classic fair excitement with colourful rides, thrilling attractions, and nostalgic games for the whole family. Whether you’re spinning on the Ferris wheel or trying your luck at a game booth, the Midway creates that magical fair atmosphere everyone looks forward to each year.
Motorsports, Muscle, and Mayhem
Get ready for roaring engines and crowd-pleasing action as the fair hosts its popular motorsport events. The Truck and Tractor Pull and the Lawn Tractor Pull bring horsepower to the spotlight, while the Demolition Derby promises explosive fun as drivers crash their way to victory. Antique and modern machines alike will also roll through town during the always-entertaining Tractor Parade.
Equestrian Events and Animal Showcases
Horse lovers will enjoy the elegance and strength on display during the Heavy Horse Show and the heart-pounding Horse Pulling Competition. These traditional events celebrate the power and beauty of working horses and are always crowd favourites. Animal lovers of all kinds will also enjoy the fun and light-hearted Pet Show, where four-legged companions get their moment in the spotlight.
Entertainment and Crowd-Pleasing Contests
Music fills the air throughout the weekend with a lineup of Live Music performances sure to get toes tapping. For adrenaline junkies, the FMX Bike Show brings jaw-dropping stunts and freestyle tricks, while the Extreme Rodeo offers bull riding and barrel racing action for fans of western thrills.
Homecrafts, Baking, and Community Spirit
Inside the Homecrafts building, visitors will find a colourful array of local talents on display, from baking and preserves to crafts and quilts. The Men’s Baking Contest adds some friendly and delicious rivalry to the mix, with amateur bakers vying for bragging rights.
Raise a Toast and Join the Fun
When it’s time to relax, the Beer Tent offers a casual spot to unwind, catch up with friends, and soak in the festive atmosphere. Whether you’re there for the livestock, the rides, the rodeo, or just the cotton candy, the 2025 Port Perry Fair has something for everyone. Come out this Labour Day weekend and be part of a fair that truly celebrates country living at its finest.
History of the Port Perry Fair
The Port Perry Fair, held annually over the Labour Day weekend, has been a cornerstone of the Port Perry, Ontario, community since its inception in 1853. Established by the United Township of Reach and Scugog Agricultural Society, the fair’s early years saw events hosted in various villages, including Epsom, Manchester, Utica, and Prince Albert.
In 1865, the fair found a more permanent home in Port Perry, utilizing the Paxton and Tate Foundry as its venue. Following the devastating fire of 1884 that impacted downtown Port Perry, the fairgrounds were relocated closer to town. By 1886, the Central Ontario Fair Board acquired 23 acres from Charles C. Kellett, part of the Crandell estate, to establish new fairgrounds.
Significant developments took place in 1886 and 1887, including the construction of exhibition halls, a large covered grandstand, stables, and a half-mile racetrack. A traction engine was employed to provide electricity, enabling nighttime horse racing.
In 1910, the agricultural society contributed $750, covering half the cost of the land, which was then sold to the Township. The Township leased the land back to the society to maintain it as a fairground and public park.
The fair has a longstanding tradition of hosting notable events. Since 1937, it has featured the Holstein Show, highlighting black and white cattle, which continues to be a significant aspect of the fair.
Today, the Port Perry Fair offers a diverse array of attractions, including livestock competitions, homecraft exhibits, midway rides, live entertainment, and various contests that celebrate the region’s agricultural heritage. The fairgrounds, located at 15835 Old Simcoe Road, serve as a vibrant hub for community engagement and cultural festivities.
With a history spanning over 170 years, the Port Perry Fair remains a testament to the enduring spirit and dedication of the local community in celebrating and preserving its rich agricultural traditions.
