Est. 1857 · District 12 · OAAS

The Beachburg
Agricultural Society

A volunteer-run not-for-profit serving the Ottawa Valley, through the annual fair, year-round programming, and a fairgrounds that belongs to the community.

From the president

A message from Brenna Jansen

"Each year, the Beachburg Fair brings together neighbours, families, volunteers, and visitors to celebrate the heart of rural life in the Ottawa Valley."

It's more than just an event — it's a tradition rooted in agriculture, community spirit, and the belief that small-town gatherings can have a big impact.

As President of the Beachburg Agricultural Society, I am incredibly proud of the dedicated team of volunteers, supporters, and sponsors who work tirelessly behind the scenes to bring the fair to life. From the excitement of the midway to the quiet pride in our livestock barns and homecraft exhibits, every detail reflects our community's resilience, creativity, and shared values.

We're especially proud of how the fair continues to grow and evolve while staying true to its roots — supporting youth through our bursary program, enhancing our fairgrounds for future generations, and offering programming that reflects both our heritage and the changing needs of our rural community.

Whether you've attended the fair every year since childhood or are planning your very first visit, we invite you to join us in 2026 and help us make this year's fair the best yet. Your support — as a visitor, volunteer, exhibitor, or sponsor — helps keep this tradition alive and thriving.

On behalf of the entire Board, thank you for being part of our fair family. We can't wait to welcome you to the fairgrounds.

Brenna Jansen
President, Beachburg Agricultural Society

Mission & vision

What we're here to do

Agricultural societies exist to increase awareness of farming and improve quality of life in rural communities. The Beachburg Agricultural Society has done this every year since 1857, through exhibitions, competitions, youth programming, and maintaining fairgrounds that serve the community year-round.

How we do it

  • Hosting the annual Beachburg Fair: four days of agricultural shows, live music, competition, and community
  • Awarding prizes and ribbons that recognize excellence in livestock, homecraft, and open-class competition
  • Supporting youth through the annual bursary program
  • Maintaining facilities (Heritage Hall, the show rings, the derby track) available to the community year-round
  • Building partnerships with local organizations: the Lions Club, the Beachburg Recreation Association, schools, churches, community organizations, and sports groups
  • Promoting conservation and stewardship of the natural and agricultural landscape

How we're organized

The Society is a not-for-profit governed by a volunteer board of directors elected by members. All revenue supports Society operations and the annual fair. Two part-time staff (a Secretary and a Treasurer) coordinate alongside volunteer directors and community helpers. There are no shareholders. Everything goes back into the fair and the fairgrounds.

Beachburg Agricultural Society board and volunteers
Get involved

Volunteers are the fair

The Beachburg Fair runs on the people who show up. Every year, hundreds of neighbours give their time (a few hours or a full weekend) to make four days happen.

There are roles before, during, and after the event. You can take tickets at the gate, help in the food booth, support the livestock events, or help with setup and teardown. Shifts run two to four hours. First-timers are welcome and well-fed. Student volunteer hours are available.

Phone
613-582-3327

All are welcome. Leave a voicemail if you don't reach us, and we'll call back.

Youth bursary program

Investing in the next generation

Two annual awards for young people aged 17–23 who are engaged in agricultural life and their community.

$450

Agri-Focused Future Student Bursary

For students enrolled in a post-secondary program who have actively supported agricultural initiatives through 4-H, fairs, or rural community work. Preference given to applicants who envision a career in agriculture or a related field, with documented volunteer service to the Beachburg Agricultural Society.

$400

The Brenda Byce Memorial Volunteer Bursary

Named in honour of a former Society president and her enduring legacy of service and commitment to youth. This award recognizes young adults who demonstrate exceptional volunteerism and leadership within the agricultural community. Recent graduates or current post-secondary students may receive priority consideration.

How to apply

Submit a completed application form along with documentation of your volunteer hours to the Society's Secretary. Each applicant may receive only one award per year, and each bursary may be accepted only once. When applicants are equally qualified, the board may conduct interviews to make final decisions.

Deadline: May 31, 2026

Download application form →