Written by Beth Hitchcock.

The aroma of caramel corn in the air. Rows of jewel-hued jams. The sound of baa-ing sheep. Few things stimulate nostalgia like fall fair season. Long a staple of rural life, these annual celebrations harken back to a time when traditions and stories were handed down through generations like a cherished family recipe.

But more than just that yearly spin on the Ferris wheel, these autumn gatherings—some of which date back more than a century—are just as relevant today, providing education, hands-on experience and interaction with farmers. As regional 4-H clubs have always known, getting kids excited about agriculture is key to the long-term sustainability of our food sources.

As the air gets cooler and the leaves start to turn, consider a visit to one of these festive and fun-filled fairs in Eastern Canada.

Hants County Exhibition

Recognized as North America’s oldest agricultural fair, Nova Scotia’s Hants County Exhibition got its start as a market on one of the only passable roads from the port of Halifax. Today, many of the original events from 259 years ago remain on the schedule, such as ox pulls and wrestling. “There’s very little that rivals the beautiful sound of ox bells or the excitement of the traditional tug-of-war,” says Lisa Hines, Hants County Exhibition’s manager. “Both are a special part of our Nova Scotia heritage and have been preserved in large part because of our agricultural fairs.”

Running on the weekends of September (this year, 13–15 and 20–22), the list of family-oriented events also includes an equestrian musical ride, barrel racing, magic shows and a midway to round out the entertainment. Come for the truck and tractor pull, stay for the surroundings. “It’s still a scenic rural destination with so much to see and do,” notes Hines.

Markham Fair

Another fall festival with a long and rich history is Ontario’s Markham Fair, celebrating its 180th anniversary this fall. Held annually the weekend before Thanksgiving, this event is scheduled October 3–6 this year. Featuring thousands of exhibitors and competitions, ranging from “So You Think You Can Cook?” to a children’s pet show, the successful fair counts on sheer community spirit, with more than 800 volunteers keeping things running smoothly.

After viewing displays of antique farming equipment or visiting the animals at Old MacDonald’s Barn, attendees can sample an array of home-cooked fare, from the breakfast sandwiches sold by local Service Clubs to freshly baked pies for Thanksgiving entertaining. “There’s enough to keep any foodie satisfied,” says Janice Lee, a representative from the fair’s advertising, promotions and public relations committee. “But I’m pretty sure all would agree Markham’s very own Tiny Tom Donuts are a must-have.”

West Niagara Fair

Though this fall event is young compared with the Hants County Exhibition and Markham Fair, its establishment in 2012 is the latest chapter in a long story. First held in 1857 and 1878, respectively, the Beamsville and Smithville fairs were the longest-surviving fairs in the Niagara region. The secret to their longevity? They were both hosted by agricultural societies that owned their land—a testament to the community’s dedication. The two autumn celebrations combined forces 12 years ago, and the newly named West Niagara Fair has become a thriving event held the weekend after Labour Day (September 6–8 this year).

In addition to traditional livestock shows and grain exhibits, this fair’s main focus is serving locals. “We have an obligation to give back to our community,” says Annette VanMarrum, president of the West Niagara Agricultural Society. To that end, a steam tractor that cooks corn on the cob will be on-site, with all proceeds from the sales of corn going to three local food banks. “I expect we’ll cook about 50 dozen cobs,” VanMarrum says.

This autumn, it’s time to fall back in love with fairs and all they do to support their communities. Choose from a cornucopia of annual events—there’s sure to be one in a small town near you, with mouth-watering treats, contests and live concerts for building cherished family memories to last a lifetime.

Best in Show

Cash prizes and bragging rights are both on the table— winner takes all at some of Canada’s quirkiest fall fair contests.

• It’s BYOZ at the local country fair’s zucchini races in Chestermere, Alta.—wheels and axles are provided.
• Oh baby! The infant with the chubbiest cheeks wins a prize at the Caledonia Fair in Caledonia, Ont.
• Contestants chomp down as many cloves as possible at the Windsor, N.S., Garlic Fest’s garlic-eating contest.
• What makes a vegetable the oddest? Find out at the Port Hope Fair in Ontario.