Fair season is among us in Hampshire County
When you come to Hampshire County, you’ll see that we’re pretty proud of our agriculture from the number of farm stands and markets selling local produce to the open fields spotted with our cows, goats and even llamas. But most of all, our annual agricultural fairs demonstrate this pride most of all. Farmers come to share their farming techniques with their colleagues, and visitors and families come to view the very best in agricultural products and experience programs unique only to these beloved fairs.
As fall approaches, mark your calendar (we have!) for three fairs in Hampshire County that have been happening since the 19th century! The Three County Fair in Northampton is Labor Day Weekend, Aug. 30 through Sept. 2; the 145th Cummington Fair is Aug.22-25 at the Cummington Fairgrounds; and the 156th Belchertown Fair is Sept. 20 through 22 on the Belchertown town common.
Northampton’s Three County Fair is the oldest fair in Hampshire County, dating back to the formation of the Hampshire, Franklin and Hampden Agricultural Society in 1818. An impressive 195 years later, and without interruption through the Great Depression, two world wars, and many smaller though significant battles, the Agricultural Society has hosted the annual Fair and maintained the grounds to host many other popular events such as the Northeast Morgan Horse Show and Paradise City Arts Festival.
In addition to the midway, fan favorite food vendors, and livestock showcases throughout the fair weekend, entertainment includes "The Best Demolition Derby in New England," monster trucks and truck pulling; Renaissance jousting; magic shows; petting zoos; and Grannies Racing Pigs.
And, hey, if you're interested in checking out a Hampshire County fair, we’re giving away a set of 4 VIP tickets to the Three County Fair in Northampton this year! Like us on Facebook and participate in our Fair Friday Facebook contest. Every Friday leading up to the Three County Fair, we'll post a question for you to answer. We will give a set of 4 VIP tickets to the Three County Fair to the person with the most creative responses for each of the 3 posts! We'll select a winner opening day of the fair, Friday, August 30.