A FAIR TO REMEMBER: NEW ENGLAND OFFERS THE BEST IN AUTUMN FUN
The harvest season means it’s time to celebrate all our spring and summer gardens have to offer. That means pumpkins, apples, food festivals, aged wine, brewed beers, and more. Here are some options for a family outing or date night to get Connecticut through to the holidays.
Country Fairs
As part of the oldest region of the country, some of the oldest country fairs continue here. Whether you’re into tractor pulling, doting over young farm animals, or eating fried foods you never thought to fry, there’s something for everyone. From Sept. 16–18, you can choose from the Berlin Lions Fair, the Guilford Fair, the Orange County Fair ,or the 4 Town Fair. From Sept. 22–25, the 102nd annual Durham Fair takes place, along with the Wolcott County Fair. From Sept. 30 through Oct. 2, you can attend the Harwinton Fair, then close out the fair season from Oct. 7–9 at the Portland Fair.
Oktoberfests
No “Oktober” would be complete without the festive celebration of German food, drink, and music. The Milford Oktoberfest is a two-day event (Sept. 23–24) organized by the Devon Rotary. Proceeds benefit charitable causes.
Quassy Amusement Park is also holding its Oktoberfest that weekend, which will include an annual celebration in the pavilion with live music both days. Discount pre-sale meal, beverage, and all-day ride passes are available online at www.quassy.com using promo code OKTOBERFEST22. The park is open from 11a.m. to 5p.m.
Food and Drink Festivals
On Sunday, Sept. 25, visit Simsbury Airport for the 42nd annual Fly-in, Car Show and Food Trucks festival from 8a.m. to 5p.m. Observe hundreds of beautiful cars and airplanes while grabbing a bite from one of 20 food trucks offering a wide range of delicious things to eat.
Southington’s Apple Harvest Festival draws more and more tourists each year. Situated on and around the picturesque Southington Town Green, the festival is a food-lover’s dream amidst a dynamic, high-energy atmosphere of family-oriented fun. For many, visiting the festival is a tradition shared with family and friends. It takes place the weekend of Sept. 30 and Oct. 7.
New London’s Brewfest at the Beach will be Friday, Sept. 30, from 6–9p.m. The event takes place under the stars on the Boardwalk at Ocean Beach. Live music and beer-friendly food is included with the price of admission.
Connecticut’s annual Garlic & Harvest Festival will take place Oct. 8–9 in Bethlehem at the town’s fair grounds. There will be fresh garlic, specialty food lectures, cooking lessons, food, crafts, and more. For the latest in upcoming events and a full Connecticut calendar, stay in the know at www.ctpost.com/ events-calendar.