While a good chunk of downtown Yorktown was dark due to a power outage Friday night, the Grange Fair was ablaze with neon carnival lights and live music filled the air. It was a clear, warm night, all the exhibits were open, the livestock tent was full of goats, cows and pigs, and young kids ran from one ride to the next with newly won stuffed animals under their arms. The enticing aromas from the food stands had me salivating with indecision – what to eat first?
Artwork, photography, needlework, baking, Legos, produce and flowers were all on display with their newly awarded ribbons. I strolled through the livestock tent and watched young kids come face to face with a variety of goats, fascinated to be able to pet them through the bars of their pens. The 4H Club proudly ran their dogs through their paces on an obstacle course to demonstrate canine agility. The Dance Faktory filled the bleachers with a large crowd for their 9-11 tribute performance. And local bands Unfunded Mandate and Chain of Fools played enthusiastic sets on the main stage. An excellent night to enjoy the Fair.
Saturday’s schedule of events
Find out what's happening in Yorktown-Somersfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Saturday is a full day with a full schedule of special events. Gates open at 10am but the day really kicks off with the annual Antique Tractor and Vehicle Parade from Veterans Road, through town to the Fairgrounds at noon. Special livestock demonstrations include draft horse pulling (12:30), horseback riding (1:30), and oxen pulling and driving (5:00).
Fairgoers young and old can compete for blue ribbons in the bubble gum blowing contest or the nail driving contest, both will take place on the blacktop in front of the main stage in between live music sets by Overhill Shenanigans (11:45), The Justin Veatch Fund All-Stars (2:15), Andrea & The Armenian Rug Riders (5:00), and this year’s headlining act: Strawberry Fields, the Ultimate Beatles Tribute Band at 8:00.
