Woodstock is set to welcome back one of its longest-standing summer traditions as the 78th Annual Woodstock Old Home Week Agricultural Exhibition returns from Aug. 1 to 8. Organizers say the week will combine agricultural programming, motorsports, live entertainment and family activities across multiple community venues.
What to expect and where
The week opens Saturday, Aug. 1 with a free Movie Night at Barney Wright Field. The traditional Old Home Week Parade will follow on Sunday, Aug. 2, moving through downtown Woodstock and highlighting local organizations, businesses and community groups.
Events will be held at several locations across the city, including Connell Park Raceway, the AYR Motor Centre, the Agricultural Building, McCain Community Theatre and other community sites.
| Event | Date | Likely venue |
|---|---|---|
| Movie Night | Aug. 1 | Barney Wright Field |
| Old Home Week Parade | Aug. 2 | Downtown Woodstock |
| Various shows, races and exhibitions | Aug. 1–8 | Connell Park Raceway, AYR Motor Centre, Agricultural Building, McCain Theatre |
Highlights and attractions
Organizers say this year’s program offers something for a broad range of interests. Featured events include agricultural competitions and demonstrations, motorsports and novelty races, live acts, family activities and a midway run by Campbell’s Amusements. Specific attractions listed by the Old Home Week board include:
- Horse pull and Holstein show
- Lawnmower races and power wheels demolition derby
- Richard Sharpe memorial demolition derby and fireworks finale
- Professional wrestling and amateur boxing
- 4-H achievement day, petting zoo and exhibit & hobby show
- Mechanical bull riding, helicopter rides and a midway
- Community events such as Rotary Radio Bingo and Carleton County’s Got Talent
The breadth of events reflects Old Home Week’s dual role as an agricultural fair and a community festival. It draws long-time exhibitors and competitors alongside vendors and families seeking a week of summer entertainment.
“Old Home Week has always been about bringing families, friends, and neighbours together. Whether you’re coming for the agriculture, midway, demolition derby, parade, boxing, or simply making memories with your family, there’s truly something for everyone,”
The quote comes from Graham Briggs, president of the Woodstock Old Home Week Board of Directors, who said the board worked hard to assemble a week that celebrates the community.
“Old Home Week wouldn’t be possible without our volunteers, sponsors, exhibitors, participants, and supporters. Their commitment allows us to continue building on a tradition that has been part of Woodstock for generations,”
Treasurer Twyla Rogers credited volunteers and community partners for supporting the event’s continued growth. Volunteers will be critical across the week — from staffing the midway and petting zoo to managing competitions and supporting safety and logistics at motor events.
Local impact and considerations
Old Home Week brings an influx of visitors, which has both cultural and economic effects. Local businesses often see increased foot traffic during parade day and while events run at downtown venues and the fairgrounds. Organizers have scheduled activities at multiple locations to spread crowds and encourage residents to move between sites.
Residents attending motor sports, demolition derbies or helicopter rides should note safety and access instructions for those specific events, as venues such as Connell Park Raceway and the AYR Motor Centre host higher-risk attractions that require spectator awareness and adherence to staff guidance.
Organizers have not released a complete daily schedule in the board’s announcement, so attendees should consult the Old Home Week board or official social channels for event times, admission details and any accessibility information. As with any multi-site festival, planning ahead — including checking parking options and start times for marquee events such as the parade and fireworks — will make it easier for families and visitors to enjoy the week.
Old Home Week remains a touchstone for many in Woodstock, reflecting agricultural roots while offering a modern festival experience for residents and visitors alike.
