Cummington Fair readies for 154th yearDate: 8/16/2022 NORTHAMPTON – The Cummington Fair is returning for its 154th year from Aug. 25 to 28 with a bevy of events for the local community.
“We try to keep a lot of the same traditions, but we also like to mix in some new stuff to keep people excited,” said Albert Judd, the Cummington Fair’s president.
While events like the truck pull and demolition derby return, Judd said that there are also some new stage and outdoor arena shows people should be excited for.
“There’s a few new ones and a few that have been there before,” said Judd, regarding those shows. “There might be some different food vendors and some new flavors on the ground, as well.”
The full schedule of the fair can be viewed online, but people can also expect Gillette rides, the Rockin’ Circus, “Magic by George,” a sheep obstacle course and the Western Mass. Lumberjack Competition, among many other events. They have also expanded their Agriculture Education area that was introduced last year.
Judd said he expects a solid turnout since the forecast right now calls for “excellent weather,” but he understands that people have different situations.
“We also realize that it may be tough for people to come out this year because of our budget,” said Judd. “We’re hoping for the best, but we always hope for the best.”
With COVID-19 still in the back of everyone’s mind, Judd said the fair will once again have sanitizer stations available during the weekend and people are welcome to wear a mask still. “People do what they want to do to be comfortable,” said Judd. “And we try to keep people comfortable.”
The fair will also feature thematic elements to each day, like “Agriculture Day” or “Children’s Night. Aug. 28, for example, is deemed “Old Fashioned Day,” which Judd said honors the old traditions of agricultural fairs, like the sheep and cow shows.
“We have an antique car show … we showcase any of the antique farm tractors that want to go through the parade on Sunday,” said Judd, regarding Old Fashioned Day. “We have a golden wedding anniversary contest which is open to couples that have been married for more than 50 years.”
Ticket information and the full schedule of each day at the fair can be found on the Cummington Fair website: www.cummingtonfair.com.
“Tip of the hat to all the volunteers on all sides of the fair that make this happen,” said Judd. “It all comes together with a lot of hard work and a lot of people that do it just because they like it.”
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