For many county residents it may well seem that the Putnam County 4-H Fair has been a special part of Putnam County’s summer ‘forever’. While it actually has not been quite that long, it has been a long time. This year, on the weekend of July 29, 30 and 31st the Putnam County 4-H Fair will celebrate its 45th anniversary at the Putnam County Veterans Memorial Park, 201 Gipsy Trail Road, Carmel!
The staff here at Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE), sponsor of the 4-H Fair, are preparing for an event to exceed all previous expectations as we celebrate this milestone. To make that effort a reality, we look forward to offering our visitors an experience that will make this weekend memorable. While there may not be many residents that have a 45 year history of involvement with the Fair we would like to extend a special invitation to anyone that has a previous connection to join us for Opening Ceremonies at Noon on Friday July 29th at Shady Grove Theater.
There have been many changes throughout the years in both the physical appearance of the Fairgrounds and the opportunities and experiences offered to our visitors. Although the site itself is still situated on a lush, rolling green landscape – carefully maintained by the Putnam County Parks Department, other visual changes have taken place. Through the years additional structures have been built, the property has been opened and expanded and larger tents hold events and exhibits then in the past.
This is a true country Fair. With Free Admission and Free Parking the goal is to offer a fun-filled 3 day event that can be enjoyed by all visitors. There are animals to see: stop by the rabbit and poultry barn, the goats, pigs, lambs, lamas at the Livestock Pavilion, and watch the dog obedience demonstration. Interested in history? Be sure to enter the Civil and Revolutionary War Encampment and stop by the antique tractor and machinery on display. Enjoy music and entertainment? Consider spending some time at Shady Grove Theater to listen to the entertainers, both youth and adult, who perform. This natural amphitheater offers a wonderful venue to appreciate local talent.
And – what would a fair or festival be without great food? Where to start? As you enter the grounds the sweet smell of fresh corn on-the-cob cooking on an open grill might be a good beginning. Then move on to the Food Court, where the availability of culinary delights range from the standard hamburgers, sausage and peppers, to vegetarian chili. If you want to get something to eat quickly step up to the hot dog cart or the, freshly squeezed, lemonade stand. And you won’t want to miss the very special Chicken BBQ on Saturday – which includes, homemade potato salad and cole slaw, baked beans, watermelon and a drink. Reserve a dinner by calling our office at 845-278-6738, or just purchase your ticket at the Information Booth on the fairgrounds
There is so much for the children to enjoy in addition to the animals: the World of Science and Magic Tent, Creative Craft Tent, and Games Tent. The Discovery Depot Building hosts exhibits, both youth and adults, of school projects, hobbies and interests of community members. More information on how to participate can be found in the ‘Project Registration Guide’ available at our office at 1 Geneva Road, Brewster and on our website at Putnam.cce.cornell.edu/events.
Adults might be particularly interested in the Country Living Auction on Saturday afternoon. Not only do we encourage visitors to ‘pick-up-a-paddle’ and bid at this lively auction but also to donate any new, or nearly-new items to be auctioned. All donations are tax deductible. Be sure to check the auction specifics on our website at putnam.cce.cornell.edu/events as we list items up for bid. One of the more colorful areas of the Fair is at the Master Gardeners’ Plant Sale Tent. An abundance of annuals, perennials, hanging baskets and shrubs will be available. CCE staff and Master Gardeners will be on hand to answer your gardening questions and help you select the appropriate flowers or shrubs for your needs.
Putnam County is a special place to live, work and visit. In the Discover Putnam Tent there are local agencies and organizations, many with interactive displays, who will share their information and are available to answer questions.
Cornell Cooperative Extension has presented the 4-H Fair in Putnam County for the past 45 years and has actually existed in Putnam as an extension of Cornell University for over 72 years. To learn more about our role here in Putnam, please be sure to visit our exhibit located in the extended plant sale tent.
Additional information about the 45th Annual 4-H Fair can be found on our website at Putnam.cce.cornell.edu/events or by calling our office at 845-278-6738.
