Next Generation Steps Up as Young Local Farmers Drive the 179th Ayers Cliff Fair

AYER’S CLIFF, August 31st 2026 – The 179th edition of the Ayers Cliff Fair brought thousands of visitors to the Stanstead County grounds from August 27th to 30th, celebrating agriculture, community and local traditions.

While the fair offers entertainment, rides and activities for families, agriculture remains at its heart. This year, organizers highlighted the growing participation of young beef and dairy farmers, with barns filled with livestock prepared for competition.

Stanstead County Agricultural Society president Tricia McDaid says supporting young farmers is essential to ensuring the agricultural community continues into the future. She says as older farmers retire, younger generations must step forward to carry on the tradition and showcase regional agriculture.

The fair also depends on more than 200 volunteers each year, demonstrating the community effort behind the event.

Livestock exhibitions, horse pulls, 4-H activities and agricultural displays give visitors an opportunity to learn about farming while meeting the people who produce and care for the region’s animals.

Organizers say the fair remains a place where agricultural traditions can be passed from one generation to the next.

Listen here: