'It is a Celebration of Berlin's Agricultural Roots'

There are carnival rides, bull-riding competitions, pie eating contests, games and a growing list of new opportunities year after year – but at the heart of the Berlin Fair lies an agricultural experience that shines a spotlight on the history of the town.

The fair returns in 2013, bringing a combination of traditional exhibits, classic foods and new programs including a lumberjack competition, but what separates the fair is its ability to provide a family-friendly atmosphere and transform into an event owned by the whole community.

“All food here is cooked and served by non-profit organizations, civic organizations and religious institutions from throughout the community,” Berlin Lions Club President Any Blasco said. “What separates this fair from others, while it may be hosted by the Lions Club, there is so much participation and everything is local. The fair truly showcases Berlin.”

Founded in 1882 as an agricultural exhibit highlighting the local farmlands, the Berlin Fair was held until 1919 and even took on the role as the State Agricultural Fair. The event was brought back to life in 1948 and has been hosted by members of the Berlin Lions Club ever since.

Today the event features a wide array of activities for fair-goers of all ages, but with a focus on arts and agriculture, Blasco said the event continues to remain a spotlight of the town’s history.

The fair includes an agriculture tent, one that local resident Sandy Olsen said she was excited to spend time in over the weekend, and a wide range of agriculture-oriented competitions. There is bull-riding and new in 2013 is a full lumberjack competition.

There will also be duck and pig races for children, a carnival and more.

Proceeds from the fair will go to serve a wide range of needs throughout the community, Blasco said, with each participating non-profit taking home a share and the Berlin Lions Club using the event as their primary fundraiser of the year.

“Funds raised by the Berlin Lions Club over the years have been used to support both youth and adult activities in Berlin and the surrounding community,” the Berlin Fair website states. “Scholarships, youth athletic programs, DARE, and senior activities are just a few of the groups that have benefited from the Fair. We also support the Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation and the CT Lions Low Vision Center as part of the Lions commitment to sight programs.”

For more, including complete schedules and maps of the event, click the link to view the Berlin Fair Guide. You can also visit the Berlin Fair on Facebook.

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