3 County Fair draws thousands over Labor Day weekend

NORTHAMPTON, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - Thousands of people attended the Three County Fair on Labor Day in Northampton, keeping alive a 209 year streak for the country's oldest, longest-running agricultural fair. The fair celebrates Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin Counties. People of all ages attended for fresh vegetables, farm animals, carnival rides and delicious fair food. Heather Dragon, a fairgoer from Westhampton, said the event is good for families. 'It's great for the kids. They love to see the animals and especially the baby animals. It's just a good family event,' Dragon Told Western Mass News. Longtime friends Sly Weiss and Ilias Rodriguez, both first-time attendees, came to the fair together. 'My girlfriend told me about this, and she said she used to come here all of the time. So, we decided to come altogether as a group,' explained Rodriguez from Longmeadow. 'I think some of the babies are super cute. I saw a pony over there named Ferdinand. It's for sale, so someone go buy it,' noted Weiss from East Longmeadow. Executive Director Taylor Haas said the fair averages about 40,000 people a year. This year's final count is not yet available, but Haas said the fair has been a success. 'It is a huge undertaking putting on a fair of this size,' Haas said. 'We added some new food vendors and some new attractions. It's been excellent.' Among the new attractions this year: A 'Tribute to America' stage to celebrate the country's 250th birthday and some tribute bands. But Haas warns the tradition of American fairs is fading and urged people to keep attending. 'That is a grim future, so please come support the fairs. Show up, support the kids that are in livestock, and just come have fun with us. We need this tradition to carry on for generations,' Haas said. Rodriguez said he plans to return. 'I've never done something like this. It's definitely great to get out of the house and do something cool,' he explained. Organizers are already looking forward to the 210th annual 3 County Fair next Labor Day weekend.