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Local Traditions & Cultures: Agricultural Fairs As summer winds down and signs of autumn appear, annual agricultural fairs throughout Western Massachusetts mark the season with celebrations of local culture through the lens of farming traditions. Beginning as early as August, these annual fairs honor the unique character of towns throughout our region, fostering community pride, and strengthening intergenerational relationships through a shared interest and experience. With a stroll through exhibition halls on… Read More

Agricultural fairs, primarily established by agricultural societies for the purpose of agriculture promotion, science and education, celebrate New England history and local culture in communities all over western Massachusetts throughout late summer and early fall. These generations-old traditions of agriculture, self-sufficiency, and resiliency in rural communities afford families opportunities to participate in intergenerational community-based traditions while offering a myriad of entertainment and learning experiences through the lens of culture and food.

The insightful person who said that Western MA was the bread basket of Massachusetts absolutely nailed it! There are incredible things happening in agriculture in the western part of the state, in the areas of sustainability and organic growing- all stemming from a strong agrarian tradition. Western MA agriculture is showcased broadly across the many late summer events that occur in the region. Here families can celebrate the local agri-culture and local food through learning opportunities, where children are afforded opportunities to exhibit projects and develop their multidisciplinary learning.

200th Anniversary of the Modern American Fair & Founding of the Berkshire Agricultural Society The first ever agricultural fair in the US took place in Pittsfield’s Park Square!  On Friday, Nov. 4th, there will be a bicentennial celebration of the fair, complete with demonstrations, historical reenactments, animals, and exhibits- all to teach visitors about the history behind the modern American fair.  Fairs play an important role in our culture (especially rural culture)-… Read More

SUGGEST AN EVENT If you have a family-friendly event or educational program happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, post your event on our “Suggest An Event” page. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, location, age appropriateness and costs before attending CUMMINGTON FAIR, AUGUST 27TH-30TH The way I see it, there is only one… Read More