What Is a Country Fair?
In the US, fall is the season that is most associated with the harvest, making the season one of the most popular times for country fairs as well. Like their name suggests, country fairs are local events that provide residents with an annual chance to show off some of their accomplishments, both agricultural and artisanal.
Traditionally, fairs also provide a venue for having some much-needed fun and excitement after a summer of work. Country fairs often include contests, exhibitions, and other events, which come paired with good food and drink. This variety of elements makes them as much amusement parks as agricultural shows, meaning that they are well-worth a visit for people with a wide range of interests.
Are country fairs still relevant to the modern world?
At one time,a country fair was the major social event for rural areas. Everyone attended and showed off their crops, livestock and other abilities. After all, there was a time when most Americans lived in the countryside rather than in the cities, meaning that they had a natural interest in something with so much relevance to their day-to-day lives.
Times have changed, but country fairs have managed to keep up with the times, meaning that they remain some of the liveliest events that interested individuals can expect to encounter. Country fairs still provide people with an opportunity to know each other better, thus creating stronger communities in the process.
Country fairs continue to be a great way to mark all of the things that have happened over the course of the year. They are celebrations that should not be missed! Fairs remain a vibrant part of American culture all around the country.
What Are the Top Ten Country Fairs in the United States?
America Unraveled loves country fairs! Here is our top ten list for 2016:
10. Common Ground Country Fair, Unity, Maine
The Common Ground Country Fair could not exist without the support of the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association, who have made it one of the best events of its kind in a state that has no lack of them. Given its main source of support, it should come as no surprise to learn that a fair number of its exhibitions are intended for eco-conscious people, whether that means teaching composting or speaking about running a business while minimizing its environmental impact at the same time.
Craft exhibits and demonstrations include canoe making, quillwork, stone work, spinning weaving and Maine Indian Baskets.
The cost to attend is $10 per adult or $8 per senior.
Fair Dates: September 23 – 25, 2016
(102)
