The slight falling of the temperature and few leaves at the
feet of our New England trees signal the approach of fall, arguably the most
exciting season in our area. Several events occur within the next months that
deserve to be mentioned, and allows a certain dynamic to where we go to school
that many schools in big cities do not have.
This week’s coming event is the Durham Fair. This fair,
located in Durham, Conn. approximately 25 minutes from campus (exit 15 off of I-91
North), mimics the Big E in size, yet not in notoriety. It is this weekend,
Sept. 26, 27, and 28, and may seem like just another small town fair however
upon arrival it is obvious that it is not.
Unlike the Big E, this fair is much more focused on
agriculture, with tractor pulls, horse pulls, animal judging where you can see
cows, llamas, chickens, and sheep, and sit on a hay bail while watching them
all.
There’s also live music throughout the three-day event. This
year country singer Blake Shelton (with the most recent hit Home), the Guess Who, and another
country singer Phil Vassar (returning to the Durham Fair main stage with his
new single I Would) will perform each
night respectively. Also, the smaller stage located close to the fair entrance
promises to have local music all day and night.
For thrill seekers, there are a large variety of carnival
rides, ranging from daring upside-down mini rollercoasters to rides suitable
for smaller children.
The food at the Durham Fair is extraordinary. Anything that
could ever be asked for is sold, as food stands line the hill in several rows,
and are also scattered throughout the fair grounds. The apple crisp, hot fudge
sundaes, and fruit smoothies are highly recommended, as well as the large rack
of mouthwatering baby-back ribs that can usually be purchased near the ride
area.
Local crafts are sold in two separate places, one in a large
tent at the top of the fair grounds, and another in a building also near the
rides. Tractors are on display here, as well as cars, trucks, fire engines, and
other utility vehicles.
Last year, a sculptor created animals out of trees, as well
as a life-sized grizzly bear out of ice.
This exciting fair should not be missed, so grab a friend
with a car and head out this weekend for the annual experience. It is prided on
by the locals and is a great way to cure campus boredom and add a twist to the
typical weekend at UNH. Visit www.durhamfair.com for more information.