About Us

The Essa & District Agricultural Society (EDAS) is a non-profit organization, previously recognized as the Barrie Agricultural Society, with its roots in upholding the traditions of the annual Barrie Fair. Our core mission revolves around creating initiatives that stimulate growth and awareness in the agricultural and agribusiness sectors, while also crafting strategies that educate and engage with non-agricultural communities.

Our Mission Statement

The Essa & District Agricultural Society strives to educate, promote and display agriculture to the residents of Essa Township, surrounding municipalities and central Ontario.

Our Objective

To provide the local community with a facility to encourage awareness of agriculture and promote improvements in the quality of life for those working in agribusiness within Essa Township and Central Ontario.

Our Board of Directors

Lisa Peterson
President, Executive

Kevin Kistler
1st Vice President, Executive

Sam Drury
2nd Vice President, Executive

Naomi Jones
Secretary

Paul Partridge
Treasurer

Michael Smith
Honorary Board Member, Deputy Mayor

Jeff Spong
Director

Abigail Robinson-Leitch
Director

Our History

Established in 1853, the Essa and District Agricultural Society was originally known as the “Barrie and District Agricultural Society.” What was once a one day gathering, is now one of the largest summer horse shows and agricultural fairs in Central Ontario that extended over a five day period (typically the last weekend in August).

In the beginning, country farmers proudly displayed their crops and livestock, while others exhibited their preserves, baked goods and sewing. These gathers served as a wonderful opportunity for people to unite, share knowledge and traditions, and rekindle old friendships. While the same essence of these events remain unchanged, today’s Barrie Fair and Essa National Draft Horse Show have grown into a much larger and longer affair, drawing exhibitors from all over Canada and the USA to participate.