Beaverton Fall Fair marks 170 years of tradition and community celebration

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

BROCK: The midway lights, the sound of laughter, and the familiar buzz of tractors and cattle are set to return to the historic Beaverton Fairgrounds this weekend, as the Beaverton Fall Fair celebrates its 170th edition, on Friday, September 12th and Saturday, September 13th.

This milestone year will carry the theme “Country Vibes and Carnival Rides” which is a fitting tribute to the fair’s long history of blending agricultural roots with family fun. Visitors can expect all the familiar favourites: 4H shows, tractor and cattle pulls, a bustling midway, live entertainment on the community stage, and the always-anticipated demolition derbies.

“For 170 years, the Beaverton Fall Fair has been a gathering place for our community, bringing people together across generations,” said Clayton Quinn, President of the Beaverton Agricultural Society. “This year we’re excited to highlight both our agricultural traditions and the fun which comes with a midway and carnival atmosphere. We welcome everyone to come out, enjoy the rides, see the exhibits, catch a show, and celebrate what makes Beaverton special.”

Festivities kick off Friday, with the traditional parade, beginning at the Beaverton Public Library, at 12:15 p.m., winding its way to the fairgrounds for opening ceremonies. From there, the grounds will come alive with demonstrations, contests, and entertainment, capped off by the Demo Cross at the grandstands, etc.

Saturday begins bright and early, with the Durham West 4H Achievement Day, alongside a car show, baby show, and horse events. Visitors can also enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides, live music, dance performances, a flower design demonstration, and plenty of family-friendly competitions. The day closes with the crowd-favourite demolition derby under the lights at the grandstands.

Brock Township Mayor, Mike Jubb noted, the fair remains a cornerstone of local life. “The Beaverton Fall Fair is one of those traditions which ties us to our past, while still offering something new for today’s families,” said Mayor Jubb. “It’s a chance for neighbours to reconnect, for kids to make memories, and for us all to celebrate the pride we have in our community.”

Throughout both days, visitors will find indoor and outdoor vendors, homecraft displays, local food, and a wide range of activities for all ages. The mix of agricultural showcases and carnival excitement reflects both the fair’s heritage and its ongoing role as a community hub.

As Mr. Quinn added, “Our volunteers work hard all year to put this together, and seeing the community come out to support it makes it all worthwhile. The fair has always been about celebrating who we are, our rural roots, our families, and our future.”

With two days full of sights, sounds, and tastes to enjoy, the Beaverton Fall Fair promises to once again be the heartbeat of Brock Township this September.