The first Carp Fair was held in 1863 but its story dates back to 1818, when the first settlers, of predominantly Irish descent, arrived to Huntley Township. The Township of Huntley has always been agriculturally centered specifically because due to the fertile clay loam soil that can be found in the valley of the Carp River. This rich soil supports some of the richest farmland in Eastern Ontario. Seeing Carp soil is essential for Eastern Ontario’s agriculture success, it has always been an important part of Huntley Township. Although, after the fire of 1870, which destroyed a big part of the surrounding area, it unarguably became the centre of the Township. Carp quickly began to grow, becoming the junction between Ottawa, Arnprior and Stittsville. Carp was not only known for it’s promising agriculture but it was home to four hotels, numerous bars and a couple of public schools. By 1854, Carp had its own newspaper and by 1899, trains began to pass through. Today, Carp is becoming more of a residential community but those who call it home still hold the Carp Fair at great importance.

All of this to say, the Carp Fair is an event that has always brought members of the community together. People would come from all over Eastern Ontario to show off both their crops and animals. Historically speaking, it was an opportunity to both share and learn from other farmers. Today, the Carp fair offers far more than just crops and animals. It is a weekend long event that showcases all the beauty the countryside has to offer.

The Carp fair, also known as the “Best Little Fair in Ottawa,” has a variety of events lined up for this years fun filled weekend.  This year’s fair will take place from September 26th to the 29th and include live music, world-class horse shows, President’s Choice SuperDogs, a petting zoo and so much more. There’s no better way to celebrate the fall than by enjoying a family filled weekend in Ottawa’s countryside. Get ready for some good old fashioned fun.

http://huntleyhistory.ca/history.html

http://carpfair.ca/about-us/

https://www.ottawatourism.ca/events/carp-fair/

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