Summer has arrived in Maine, and the agricultural fair season is in full swing. Pittston Fair has opened its gates for the 72nd year, running from June 20 through June 23 in Central Maine. This year, the fair returns to its historic June start date, promising four days of fun and entertainment.
Despite the heat and humidity on opening day, organizers are enthusiastic about the fair's prospects. Debbie McGee, chairman of the board of the Pittston Fair, is hopeful for good weather over the weekend. The fair had to be rescheduled to June this year due to a scheduling conflict with the Bangor State Fair, affecting midway attractions. Other fairs like the Union and Houlton fairs will also have new dates, with the Windsor Fair even adding an extra day to its schedule, opening a day earlier on August 24th.
The Maine Association of Agricultural Fairs anticipates another record year for attendance, with people showing more interest in food sources and agriculture. Barry Norris, the executive director of the association, highlights the growing trend of people wanting to connect with farming practices.
What can visitors expect at 'Maine's Friendliest Fair' this year? The Pittston Fair promises a mix of entertainment, rides, agricultural competitions, and delicious food for all ages. Horse pulls, driver's education giveaway, bicycle giveaway, and truck pulls are some of the popular events. Kim Alley-Pelletier, secretary of the Pittston Fair Board, emphasizes the excitement surrounding the truck pulls.
Food is a major highlight at the fair, with visitors raving about the delicious cheeseburgers and taco salads. McGee and Alley-Pelletier share their passion for cooking up mouthwatering dishes for fair attendees. The fair also aims to educate visitors about farming practices by showcasing local farmers and their work.
The Pittston Fair is home to the Strawberry Festival, perfectly coinciding with strawberry season due to this year's new dates. Admission is priced at $8 for ages 13 and up, with free entry for children under 12 with the purchase of an adult ticket. The fair season will conclude in Fryeburg in October, marking the end of a successful agricultural fair season in Maine.