Writer: Andrew Hind
2025 marks the 150th anniversary of the event in this Muskoka village and organizers are hoping to make it an event worthy of the milestone. To make that happen, they are looking for vendors to join in the fun.
The people of Rosseau (then known as Helmsley) were quick off the mark in establishing an agricultural society in 1875. The village was still in its infancy, barely a decade old, and many farms were little more than scratches carved out of the forest. The first fair was held that autumn, on October 1st.
There have been many changes to the fair over the years – the event has moved to the last weekend in August before Labour Day and gone are the livestock displays – but the community spirit that it encapsulates has remained consistent.
“We’re just an old-fashioned country fair, and we like it that way,” says Rosseau Agricultural Society President Dawn Chisholm. “We maintain a focus on family fun.”
Chisholm notes that approximately 900 people pass through the gates every year.
To make for an engaging event, the agricultural society is looking for vendors to participate and join the day’s activities that include log-sawing competitions, browsing the exhibit hall, and numerous children’s games.
Typical vendors include:
- Seller of craft items, clothing, cleaning products, etc.
- Public Service Groups
- Education Groups
The fee is $20.00 for a 10 X 10 space. Vendors must be insured and supply their own table and canopy. Set up time is 7 AM to 9 AM on Fair Day. To reserve a spot, please complete the registration form . Send the completed form along with payment to rossseaufallfair1875@gmail.com.
The 2025 Rosseau Fall Fair will be held Saturday August 23rd at the Rosseau Fair Grounds (7 Ash Street). For more information on becoming a vendor or to volunteer, visit their website.
