2009 Topsfield Fair Starts Today, Oct. 2

Article by Eric H.

The Topsfield Fair, the nation's oldest agricultural fair, runs from Oct. 2 to Oct. 12, 2009, at the Topsfield Fairgrounds, 207 Boston Rd. in Topsfield, Mass.

Beginning as strictly an agricultural show in 1818, the Topsfield Fair has evolved into a major New England tourist attraction with myriad things to do, including midway rides, parades, musical entertainment (this year, Susan Tedeschi and LeAnn Rimes!), giant pumpkin contest, and yes, plenty of agricultural-related events.

From personal experience, we rate the Topsfield Fair alongside The Big E in West Springfield, Mass. (running through this Sunday, Oct. 4) as the premier local fair in New England. Quite large and varied with lots of entertaining and informative events and exhibitions (and a whole lot of comfort food vendors), we recommend spending, at least, a morning or afternoon at this beloved local fair. Best yet, spend a whole day!

For all its midway rides excitement and top-notch musical entertainment, we still enjoy most the "simple things" like the Essex County farmyard with its miniature horses, tiny pigs, sheep with their lambs, horses, hens, and other farm animals (including a llama!). Nothing fancy, but a great way to enjoy the outdoors with our animal friends.

Check out this year's Topsfield Fair event schedule for all there is do to, as well as hours of operation.

What a fun time!

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Three Massachusetts Fall Events to Put on Your Calendar

Article by Eric H., Photo of Salem, MA, home, courtesy of MOTT

The chill in the air, the change of colors in the leaves, and many special, unique events make the fall a favorite time of the year for many residents and travelers. Here are three "New England" events in Massachusetts that you won't want to miss:

The Topsfield Fair, in Topsfield, MA, runs until Oct. 13. Besides the Eastern States Exposition (the Big E) in West Springfield, MA, the Topsfield Fair is my favorite "fair" event. Labeled as America's Oldest Agricultural Fair (established in 1818), the Topsfield Fair features some fun family events like oxen pulling, the Royal Canadian Mountain Police, the giant pumpkin contest, polo, antique farm tractor pulling, a Farmers Market, needlecraft and antique shows, the Mrs. Essex County Contest and a whole lot more. There's also music, a midway with amusement rides and plenty of food vendors. Visit the Topsfield Fair Web Site for a complete list of events, directions and hours.

The historic Salem Cross Inn in West Brookfield, MA, offers a longtime favorite New England event called the Fireplace Feast. This beloved feast features the signature Salem Cross Inn wonderfully seasoned prime rib that is slowly roasted over a fieldstone fireplace pit for four hours. That's not all -- you also can sample fish chowder prepared in cast iron cauldrons over open fires. If that's not you can further feat on a cheesespread, glass of mulled wine or cider, homemade rolls and muffins, herb roasted potatoes, homemade spinach pie and fresh butternut squash, and some warm apple pie with real whipped cream. Top it off with a horsedrawn wagon or sleigh ride (weather permitting), and you can now consider yourself officially in New England. Visit the Salem Cross Inn Web Site for dates and times regarding this special event.

What would October be like without a good Halloween celebration? Naturally, the historic community of Salem, MA (famous for its witch trials and culture), offers "Haunted Happenings," a festival that goes the extra mile by running several city-wide Halloween-related events until Oct. 31. Columbus Day Weekend will feature the Salem Chamber of Commerce Biz Baz where artists, retailers and non-proft groups will offer arts, crafts, food and more. For a schedule of scary yet fun events, visit the Haunted Happenings Web Site

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