The Collingwood Agricultural Society is a volunteer organization that runs the Great Northern Exhibition (GNE), a fall fair in operation for 165 years.  The 3-day family-friendly event runs in September (3rd weekend after Labour Day) at the Fairgrounds between Wasaga Beach and Collingwood. The GNE features traditional activities such as animal rides and competitions, and craft and baking exhibits.  It also has midway rides, a monster truck show, fiddle and step-dance competitions, concerts and exhibitors.  Parking is free, including rides on a tractor-pulled trailer from the parking lot to the gate. Year-round use of the fairgrounds for fundraising events, private rental events, storage and solar-power generation means that the Ag. Society can fund a variety of initiatives such as 4H clubs and the Ambassador Program which are open to all in the community.  The Fair also sets aside time and activities for local students to learn more about how food reaches the grocery store! The Society also partners with the Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies for education and advocacy. Both groups aim to keep family farming alive and well in our communities.