Shelburne Fall Fair

“September 12 – 14, 2025 – “Barns, Boots and Bales!“

The 2025 Shelburne Fall Fair returns from September 12 to 14, 2025, at the Shelburne Fairgrounds, located at 377 William Street, Shelburne, Ontario. Established in 1867, this cherished fair celebrates its 158th year with the theme “Barns, Boots and Bales”, offering a delightful mix of agricultural showcases, family-friendly entertainment, and community spirit. (Shelburne Fall Fair)

Agricultural Exhibits and Livestock Shows

Agriculture remains at the heart of the fair. The Dairy Show, Beef Cattle Show, Sheep Show, Calf Club Show, and 4-H Sheep Show highlight the dedication of local farmers and the quality of livestock in the region. These events provide insights into local farming practices and the importance of agriculture in the community. (Shelburne Fall Fair)

Family-Friendly Entertainment and Activities

Families will find plenty to enjoy throughout the weekend. The Kid Zone offers interactive and educational experiences for younger attendees. The Baby Show celebrates the community’s youngest members, adding a heartwarming touch to the festivities. The Kids Tractor Pull and Dad’s Stroller Races provide fun and competition for children and parents alike. The Bicycle Races encourage physical activity and participation among children. (Shelburne Fall Fair)

Live Entertainment and Social 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, Live Entertainment showcases a variety of acts, ensuring continuous enjoyment for all visitors. (Shelburne Fall Fair)

Motor Sports and Competitions

Adding excitement to the fair, the Demolition Derby, Garden Tractor Pull, and ATV Pull promise high-octane thrills as drivers compete in tests of endurance and strategy. The Horse Pull showcases the strength and teamwork of these magnificent animals. These competitions are a favorite among attendees, highlighting the power and skill involved in these traditional fair events. (Shelburne Fall Fair)

Homecraft Exhibits and Community Engagement

Inside the exhibition halls, visitors can explore an array of Homecraft Exhibits, showcasing local talents in baking, quilting, preserves, and crafts. These exhibits celebrate the domestic arts that have been a staple of the fair since its inception. Community members are encouraged to participate in various exhibits and competitions, fostering local talent and engagement. (Shelburne Fall Fair)

Join the Celebration

The 2025 Shelburne Fall 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 Shelburne. Mark your calendars for September 12 to 14, and be part of this cherished celebration at the Shelburne Fairgrounds. (Shelburne Fall Fair)

History of the Shelburne Fair

“History of Shelburne” by John Rose

Since 1867 – oldest continuing organization in Town. Older than the Town itself. Shelburne wasn’t
incorporated as a village until 1879! Canada and Shelburne Fair will both celebrate 150 years in 2017.

1867 – was known as Melancthon Agricultural Society, with John Mills as President

First Fair:  October 1868 on the roadside in Masonville – one day event

1892 – The Dufferin Central Exhibition

The Dufferin Central Fair
Shelburne District Agricultural Society
Fair for Shelburne, Amaranth, Melancthon, Mono and Mulmur

October 5, Mid 1880’s – moved to George Charters’ farm , on grounds of Shelburne Turf (horse
racing) Association across the railway tracks from the railway station (not successful – 4 inches of snow

Next year – moved it to the spring

Shelburne Turf Association became Shelburne Driving Club, and granted Fair use of grounds for
1887 – John Jelly (William Jelly’s younger brother) built grandstand for Queen Victoria’s Golden
Jubilee celebrations. Stood until demolished in an aircraft accident in 1922.

1888 Simon Jelly (William Jelly’s older brother – and the first of the Jelly family to settle in
Shelburne) gave 16 acres of his farm to the Driving Club, which is the location of the present
Fairgrounds, although it is smaller now. Contained regulation half-mile racing oval. Agricultural
Society paid $50 a year to use property at Fair time. William Jelly was President of the Ag Society at the time

1889 – horse races, Highland Dancing competition, John Jelly displayed his Mastadon skeleton (Newburg Mastadon) in a tent, Shelburne Citizens’ Band, fireworks

1890 – Agricultural Hall built at cost of $1,100, with electric lights! Very tall building which resembled an old grain elevator. Very large, with 10-12 ft gallery around interior walls. Demolished in 1947 when the CDRC was built.

October 6-7, 1891 Fair – John Jelly displayed and demonstrated first “talking machine” (gramophone) seen around here for 10cents admission, and his second mammoth skeleton (Highgate Mastadon) which was larger than the first, but not complete.

January 1892 – Agricultural Society purchased property from the Driving Club for $1,500

1916 – Horse Stable built – still in use today

1917 – 50th Anniversary – no celebrations due to WWI.  Large celebrations for 60th in 1927.

September 20, 1958 – Prime Minister John Diefenbaker and Federal Member Earl Rowe attended
Fair. Mr. Rowe later became Lieutenant-Governor of Ontario, and was a frequent visitor.

1972 – 6 member Executive Board, 30 member Board of Associate Directors, 35 member Ladies’
Board of Associate Directors. 200 entrants. 90 page Prize List.

2013 – Segment of property sold to allow for building of Glenbrook Elementary School.

2014 – 18 member board of Directors. 92 page Prize List.  Show barn upgraded to become Exhibit Hall.

2015 – Horse Barn upgraded to become Assembly Hall.  New Cattle Pavillion built.

2016 – 100 page Prize List.  Floor laid in Assembly Hall.

2017 – Shelburne Fair’s Sesquicentennial

2018 – Purchased mobility mats for the fairgrounds to ensure anyone with limitations including individuals using walkers, wheelchairs and families with strollers, can experience the whole fair