Although the first official show of the Thame Agricultural Association was held in October 1888, the origins started over thirty years before that date.

During October of 1855, Mr D Prowting, a representative of Messrs. Howard’s, Ploughmakers, met with Mr Joseph Dodwell and Mr A R Howland, both of Thame, with a view to holding a Ploughing Match. Agreement was reached and Mr T Smith of Brill and Mr J T Shrimpton of Thame were made Honorary Secretaries. On Thursday 25th October 1855 the first Ploughing Match of Thame took place.This event was a huge success with twenty-six teams competing for eight prizes.

For some eight years preceding this event, Thame had held a Horticultural Society Show. Following the success of the Ploughing Match, it was agreed that these two events should be combined. In 1855 Thame Agricultural and Horticultural Society was formed. This later became Thame Agricultural Association and the show, Thame Show.

The Thame Showground was created - a purpose built venue that is the perfect setting for various events in South Oxfordshire.

It is now home to the Thame Country Fair and Towersey Festival, a celebration of musical roots and the perfect end to summer. Four days and nights of the best acoustic, folk, blues, world, americana and much more.