FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 3, 2026
Celebrating 180 Years of Traditions at the 2026 OAAS Convention
Stirling, ON – The 2026 Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies (OAAS) Convention welcomed approximately 1,200 delegates from across the province February 19-21 at the Sheraton Parkway Toronto North Hotel & Suites in Richmond Hill.
Celebrating 180 years of supporting agricultural societies and fairs, the OAAS delivered one of its most dynamic conventions to date. With a completely sold-out tradeshow featuring 70 vendors, over 65 workshops and educational sessions, and 20 live entertainment acts showcased throughout the weekend, the event highlighted the strength, innovation, and passion within Ontario’s fair community.
Before the convention officially began, the ninth Building Community Leaders Workshop, welcomed 30 participants, for a focused workshop on leadership development, governance and risk management. The Honourable Trevor Jones, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness, stopped in to bring greetings and recognize the vital role agricultural societies play in rural communities.
Additional in-person greetings were delivered by the Honourable Lisa Thompson, Minister of Rural Affairs, who joined delegates during the Friday afternoon session, and Senator Rob Black, who addressed members during the Annual Meeting.
A highlight of Friday afternoon was keynote speaker Courtny Hinds from the Wyoming State Fair, who delivered an inspiring presentation titled »Celebrating.Our.Fairtage¿.The.Passion.™.Purpose.Behind.the.Industry¡‹ Her message celebrated the deep-rooted traditions and forward-thinking spirit that sustain agricultural fairs across North America.
The convention concluded with a powerful closing keynote from Ian Hill titled »You.Make.a.THE.Difference¿.Will.We.Meet.the.Moment¡‹ Hill challenged delegates to recognize their leadership impact and embrace the responsibility of shaping strong, connected communities through their fairs and agricultural societies, and kicking off his 20 stop, province wide “You Make THE Difference” tour, upcoming this Spring.
Youth engagement remained a cornerstone of the convention, with 77 youth Ambassadors participating in a dedicated leadership and personal growth program featuring specialized speakers and skill-building sessions. The OAAS also proudly welcomed the Young Professional Exchange delegates from Alberta, strengthening interprovincial collaboration and knowledge-sharing.
The weekend included special recognition of outstanding volunteers. Mary Lichty-Nebb of the Wellesley North Easthope Agricultural Society received the prestigious Len & Ada Patterson Award, presented by Encore Products and Promotions and the OAAS Past Presidents, recognizing her exceptional dedication and service. In addition, Carl DeSchutter of the Forest Agricultural Society was honoured as the inaugural inductee into the OAAS Hall of Fame, celebrating his lasting contributions to Ontario’s fair community.
“Celebrating 180 years of service to agricultural societies is an incredible milestone,” said Heather Owens, President of the Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies. “Seeing 1,200 delegates, a sold-out tradeshow, strong youth participation, and leaders from across the province come together reminds us that our agricultural societies are more than fairs and events, they are the heart of our communities.”
The OAAS represents 210 agricultural societies across Ontario and remains committed to providing leadership, education, advocacy, and support to ensure agricultural fairs continue to thrive for generations to come.
For more information about the OAAS, visit www.oaasfairs.com.
Contact:
Vince Brennan, OAAS Executive Director
P: 613-395-2465 E: vince@oaasfairs.com