our story
Rooted in History. Growing for the Future.
The Niagara Regional Exhibition is proudly owned and operated by the Niagara Regional Agricultural Society, a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to celebrating agriculture, strengthening community connections, and promoting a better understanding between rural and urban communities.
For generations, our Society has worked to educate visitors about agriculture, encourage agricultural improvement, and create opportunities for families to connect with the people, products, and traditions that help make Niagara unique. Our story is one of perseverance, innovation, and a commitment to building a stronger agricultural community.
A Tradition That Began Over 170 Years Ago
The roots of the Niagara Regional Agricultural Society stretch back to the early days of Niagara’s agricultural history.
Founded in 1853 by Provincial Charter as the Welland County Agricultural Society, the organization began with a vision to promote agriculture, domestic industry, and rural life throughout the region.
The first exhibitions were held at various locations throughout the area, including Ephriam Hopkins’ farm and hotel in 1832, before continuing through locations such as Port Robinson and Merritton. As the community grew, so did the Exhibition, eventually becoming an important gathering place for farmers, families, and businesses across Niagara.
In 1970, the Welland Fair officially became the Niagara Regional Exhibition, reflecting the organization’s broader vision and commitment to serving the entire Niagara community. The following year, the Society officially became known as the Niagara Regional Agricultural Society.
More Than a Fair
As the Exhibition grew, leaders recognized that its future could be about more than one week of celebration each year.
With the purchase of a larger property in 1967, the Society began planning for a future where the grounds could serve the community year-round—not only as a place to celebrate agriculture, but also as a destination for educational programs, cultural events, entertainment, and community gatherings.
This forward-thinking vision helped shape the Niagara Regional Exhibition into what it is today: a place where agriculture, family, and community come together.
Celebrating Agriculture & Community
Today, the Niagara Regional Exhibition continues its mission of promoting agricultural education, research, and improvements to rural life.
Through livestock displays, agricultural exhibits, competitions, demonstrations, local vendors, and community events, we help visitors of all ages discover where their food comes from and appreciate the people who work hard to grow it.
Agriculture touches every part of our daily lives, and we believe that creating opportunities for people to learn, experience, and celebrate agriculture is more important than ever.
Looking Toward the Future
The Niagara Regional Exhibition is entering an exciting new chapter.
As we continue developing our new property, our vision is to create a year-round destination for agriculture, entertainment, education, and community events. Future opportunities include agricultural programming, livestock shows, concerts, trade shows, motorsports events, family activities, and gatherings that bring people together year-round.
While our traditions remain at the heart of everything we do, we are always looking for new ways to serve Niagara and create experiences for future generations.
Our Community. Our Traditions.
Years of growing
We exist because of the dedication and passion of volunteers who believe in the importance of agriculture and community. From organizing events and maintaining the grounds to welcoming visitors and supporting exhibitors, every volunteer helps bring this tradition to life.
For over 170 years, our Society has grown because people cared enough to contribute. We invite you to be part of the next chapter of the Niagara Regional Exhibition.
Niagara Regional Agricultural Society
We have been bringing people together for generations through community, education, and celebration. As the proud organization behind the Niagara Regional Exhibition, we continue to honour our agricultural roots while creating new opportunities for families, businesses, and visitors to connect throughout the year.