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!