Temporary Traffic Changes in Place for Perth Fair

September is just around the corner, bringing two familiar signs of the season to Perth: students heading back to the classroom and the return of the Perth Fair.

This year, the school year begins before Labour Day, creating an overlap between regular school-day activity and preparations for the Perth Fair. The Town of Perth, Upper Canada District School Board, Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario, Perth & District Agricultural Society and the Ontario Provincial Police are working together to help keep students, families, pedestrians and motorists safe during this busy period.

Residents and visitors should be aware of temporary traffic changes around the fairgrounds and nearby schools on Thursday, September 3 and Friday, September 4, 2026.

Traffic and Access Changes

Arthur Street, from Halton Street to South Street, will be closed from 9:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. on September 3 and September 4. No public access or parking will be permitted during this time.

During the closure:

• School bus transportation will not be affected, and regular bus pick-up and drop-off will continue.
• The main entrance to the Perth Fairgrounds will remain accessible to pedestrians.
• On-site Fair parking can be accessed from Rogers Road.
• Additional parking will be available at the Conlon Farm Recreation Complex.
• Additional crossing guards will be stationed at Wilson Street and Halton Street from 3 to 4 p.m. on both September 3 and September 4.

Student pick-up at Queen Elizabeth School will temporarily take place at the front of the school on Wilson Street East on September 3 and 4. The section of Wilson Street East currently under construction will be reopened to accommodate access.

Queen Elizabeth School and St. John Catholic Elementary School will share additional information about school access, drop-off and walking routes directly with parents and caregivers leading up to the start of the school year and Perth Fair.

Please Plan Ahead

With school and Fair activities happening at the same time, residents can expect increased vehicle and pedestrian traffic in the area, including more students walking to and from school than during previous years during the Fair.

Motorists are asked to plan ahead, allow additional travel time, follow posted signage and directions, and use extra caution around schools, intersections and pedestrian routes.

The Town appreciates the community's patience and cooperation as the Perth & District Agricultural Society, school boards, OPP and Town staff work together to make the transition as safe and smooth as possible.

We look forward to welcoming students back for another school year — and welcoming residents and visitors to another great Perth Fair!