Malta Development Blog

One of the best things about living in our area is the ability to experience a real county fair.  While there are plenty of traveling carnivals that visit cities all over America, a county fair is more than just rides and midway games. It’s a week of contests, competitions, shows, and demonstrations that can bring a community together. The Saratoga County Fair opens on Tuesday, July 21 and runs through Sunday, July 26. The fairgrounds are open from 9:00 am until midnight each day. These are our five favorites to look for when you visit the fair.

Agriculture Competitions

For those who have spent their whole lives living in a city, the agricultural competitions that are such an integral part of the Saratoga County Fair will be a brand new experience. There are dozens of contests, including competitions and shows for vegetables, fruits, livestock, and herbs. You’ll see giant produce of all shapes and have the opportunity to see dozens of varieties of goats, sheep, cows and horses.

Home Arts Contests

Pie and jam tasting contests, baking competitions, embroidery competitions, and flower arranging are a quintessential part of the American experience. Most of us have never entered one of these contests or even seen one first hand. The county fair is a great place to experience this true part of Americana. You might even decide to enter your favorite recipe or original design next year!

Crafts Demonstrations

If you love watching HGTV or are addicted to Pinterest, you’re going to love the Saratoga County Fair’s crafts demonstrations. You’ll get to see and talk to artists and crafters who are experts in fields that rarely get national attention. Previous years have included demonstrations by quilt makers, chainsaw artists, and leather workers.  You’re going to be amazed at the talent these demonstrators have, and many of them love to talk about their art. If you’re looking for advice, or if you just want a beautiful object to decorate your home, then you’re going to like these demonstrations that go on throughout the week.

Agricultural Education for Youth

For many urban and suburban children, the County Fair is the only place that they can interact with farm animals and equipment. Little kids can climb and ride on tractors and pet and feed baby animals at the petting zoo. If they’re adventurous, ask about entering them into a mutton busting show (it’s like a small rodeo for kids). Older children will like the livestock competitions hosted by 4H members.

Unusual Food Offerings

The food at the Saratoga County Fair goes beyond the traditional hot dogs and funnel cakes. For years, the food vendors have tried to outdo each other by coming up with the most delicious snacks and side dishes. You’ll discover fried candy bars, grilled Cajun corn on the cob, and spicy french fries. Every year there is something new to try, and the choices become more exotic and outrageous. This year, there is a rumor that the fair will include fried butter and chocolate-filled funnel cake.

If you have never been to the Saratoga County Fair, you and your family are going to love the experience. Plan to go for a whole day, or several days; there’s plenty to see and do.