Fair days

When our thoughts turn to fall, that means it’s time for that annual autumn treat: the Long Island Fair. Old Bethpage Village’s recreation of a 19th century county fair continues to entertain as it offers visitors the opportunity to take a break from the fast pace of modern life with a glimpse of the Long Island of bygone days.

The 167-year-old tradition, goes on for four days, beginning Oct. 1, and continues strong into the 21st century, Truly a community event, some 500 volunteers help set up and man the exhibits, booths and tents, helping out as well as exhibiting and demonstrating traditional crafts.

It is open to all, and those who have a specific skill or agricultural product are encouraged to become involved. Thousands of exhibits are entered every year in “friendly competition.” Home gardeners and crafters enter everything from pickles to poultry, chrysanthemums to crocheted handiwork, fruit, jams, and jellies. Blue ribbon categories include livestock, flowers and vegetables from farms and home gardens, culinary creations, needlework, hobbies, The junior division gives those 13 and younger a chance to show off their skills.

The fair is organized by Nassau County’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Museums, along with the Agricultural Society of Queens, Nassau and Suffolk Counties, who continue to work together in a government-private sector partnership to maintain this showcase of Long Island's heritage. In case you’re wondering, the fair is the New York State-recognized county fair for Queens, Nassau and Suffolk.

“The fair began as a competition among local farmers and farm wives who would display their recipes, show how new technologies impacted farming, which sheep had the most wool, and so on,” said Jim McKenna, site director of Old Bethpage Village Restoration. “It was and remains an important Nassau County tradition. Just like back then, people still want to compete to see who’s best.”

Visitors will find old-fashioned fun for the modern age. The family-friendly festival, one of the most popular fall events on Long Island, includes a range of attractions to amuse and entertain, as it offers a glimpse into the way Long Islanders lived in the 19th century.