The Norfolk County Agricultural Society is explaining changes to admission prices for the 2026 Norfolk County Fair and Horse Show following some discussion online.
In an email to Norfolk Today, General Manager Angela Hogeveen says “costs have increased significantly over the past several years. Labour, security, insurance, entertainment, infrastructure, equipment and contracted services all cost considerably more.”
She says admission prices did not increase last year, and increases over the past decade have been relatively modest compared with the rising cost of putting on the seven-day Fair.
Advance admission for 2026 is $15, while tickets at the gate can cost up to $20.
The Fair has also changed its free admission policy for young children. This year, children three and under get in free, lowering the previous age cutoff.
Hogeveen says the change was part of an overall review of the Fair’s admission structure.
“We certainly understand that families are watching their budgets, and we encourage people to take advantage of advance tickets and special promotions,” she said.
There are several ways for families to save. Big Deal Wednesday will return, while students are admitted free on Tuesday for Young Canada Day. Norfolk elementary students can also receive complimentary Thursday admission through the Bushels of Books program.
Volunteers and people entering Fair competitions can also receive admission opportunities.
Hogeveen says the Agricultural Society is trying to balance affordability with the rising cost of keeping the Fair running. She also points to the larger economic impact of the event.
“Each year, the Agricultural Society employs more than 100 local people to help deliver the event, in addition to the hundreds of volunteers who make it possible. We also work extensively with local contractors, suppliers, service providers, community organizations and businesses.”
More than 100,000 people attend annually, and the Agricultural Society says the Fair generates an economic impact of more than $30 million based on Ontario’s Tourism Regional Economic Impact Model.
