About Us

Elmsley-Kitley had rotating fairs until 1866 when the first Lombardy Fair was recognized.  Members of all the local churches formed the first executive.  By 1977 there were 70 members and field crops were added to the prize list and “Lombardy Agricultural Society” was born.  A Ladies miscellaneous section was added as well as Garden Produce.

The main attraction was horse racing and the fair was held on land rented from Mr. Ed O’Meara and later Mr. Don Covell.  The Methodist driveshed was also rented as an exhibit hall and later purchased.

In 1908 the fair date was changed, because of poor weather, from October to the second weekend in September.  For several years the local ladies provided dinner in the village hotel and later in the township hall.  Local people entertained in the evening from a wagon platform.  In 1949 two new buildings were added which would eventually be moved to the new location.

By the late 1970’s it was realized that the present site was inadequate, not only due to its lack of space but also because it was rented and therefore did not qualify for government grants.

In 1981, 45 acres were purchased from the Bissonette family on Kelly’s Road and with help from local tradesmen and community volunteers the community hall was built in 1982.  From there the society progressed rapidly with many other buildings added.

Since 1982 Lombardy Fair has been held on the Civic Holiday weekend in August.  The fair is organized into committees with a chair for each committee, who in turn become fair directors who elect an executive.

No longer are we just a fair.  Besides being one of the most popular fairs in Eastern Ontario, we host a variety of events throughout the year.  Our air-conditioned, fully licensed, heated community hall with modern kitchen and accessible washrooms is used for wedding receptions, political rallies, school functions, auction sales, family parties, and the list goes on.  The Ladies Division of our fair offers a catering service to those who rent the facility.

Following the untimely and unfortunate closing of Kemptville Agricultural College, the alumni chose Lombardy Agricultural Society grounds as the ideal location in Eastern Ontario to accommodate its annual meeting and reunion.  The reception was so good that the alumni erected a building on our fairgrounds to house memorabilia for all to enjoy.