Since the summer is upon us I found the history of the Barrie Fair and thought I would share it with the Society.
The Barrie Fair and National Horse Show is organized and operated by a not for profit organization known as the Barrie Agricultural Society.
What began as a one day gathering in 1853, has grown into the largest summer horse show and agriculture fair in Central Ontario extending over five days - August 22 - 26, 2001.

In the beginning, country farmers would show their produce and livestock, while ladies brought their preserves, baking and sewing. It was a time to gather and exchange ideas, practices and renew friendships. The same idea still holds true at today's much larger and longer event, but today, exhibitors travel across the province to be part of the Barrie Fair and National Horse Show.

This community event is an annual tradition that focuses on "The Farm coming to the City" enabling the rural and urban communities to come together, sharing ideas, providing a venue to exhibit, compete and market livestock and other agricultural products. The fair is a place for the Family to enjoy and have Fun, and experience the traditional values within the community.

Horse shows, farm animals, 4-H, arts and crafts, food and baking, flowers, fruit and vegetables, numerous vendors, musical entertainers, beer gardens, grandstand shows and Campbell Amusements Spectacular Midway make up the program that attracts more than 30,000 people to this Family Focused Event.

The Barrie Fairgrounds is located on a 38 acre parcel of land at Highway 400 and Essa Road, Exit 94 and is the home of the Barrie Stampede Days, Curling Club and many more events.

From: http://www.barriefair.com/about.html