In all the years I been in Maine, I have never been to the Oxford Fairgrounds and after spending just a short period at this year's (2022) Oxford Fair, I regret not experiencing the atmosphere first hand.
Let me start by saying, it is clear ALOT of effort is put into creating this event and they spare no expense in bringing a multitude of experiences as well as bring rural Maine to the forefront. For those who spent their childhoods growing up in Urban (city life) areas, you can't begin to appreciate the hard work and the livelihood of families who grew up and make a living off farming and raising animals.
The Fair offers so many things, I can't list them all here, but I indulged in the delicious fair food which ranges from fried dough, BBQ, French fries, homemade apple crisp, pizza, pretzels and anything else you can think of. Oh wait, there is this heart attach burger which has two all beef patties, cheese and bacon. If you don't go through a number of napkins eating it, you obviously didn't eat it right (ha ha). Bring some cash because most of the vendors to prefer it or require it.
From a distance, as you drive towards the grounds, you can see the carnival is present and they brought a number of rides, games and attractions. Prefer the loud noise and excitement, head on over to the 4x4 area where Lawnmowers race around at rack at speeds that would make landscaping a job of minutes rather than hours (except these have bigger motors and no blades). There is a demolition derby which is my type of event. There is also live music and performances throughout the grounds.
Now everything I talked about above is exciting, but the true spirit of the Oxford Fair is the agricultural, educational and the hard work that goes into the farming industry. Ranchers, farmers and families of all ages showcase their hard work and animals in a number of events and displays. It's country life at its finest and some of us take it for granted. We shop at local grocery stores for produce and meats, but these are the people who are responsible for keeping those shelves stocked because of their hard work.
You have to take the time to attend one of their events and experience it for yourself. Not into the rural, country or farm life, well that doesn't mean you wouldn't enjoy it, but it will make you appreciate the hard working men and women who wake up every morning to ensure we have meat, dairy and vegetables we eat every day. Go say hi and thank them for all they do. read more