The best thing about the end of summer: the start of the fair

There’s not much to cheer about as the end of summer draws near. One exception is the Mahoning Valley’s most durable institution, the Canfield Fair.

Whether you are only a casual and occasional visitor to the fairgrounds, someone who makes a point of trying to spend a day at the fair most years, or a member of the hundreds of families for whom the fair is a multi-day way of life, one thing is certain: You’ve made memories at the Canfield Fair.

It is impossible not to do so.

Regardless of age, there is always something to be entertained and amazed by at the Canfield Fair.

Any youngster‘s first visit to Old McDonald’s Barn is an education and a delight.

Antique machinery, from huge buzz saws to tiny steam engines, continue to amaze those who are eight, and can only imagine the days when steam or animals powered our machines, to those who are 80 and have early memories of the way things were.

A veritable Noah’s ark

Animals on display range from pocket pets that weigh a few ounces to draft horse that can weigh a ton.

Cattle are the subject of serious study for 4-H youngsters in search of blue ribbons and are likewise trotted out for fun in the dress-a-cow contest.

Horses, ponies, goats, sheep, poultry, rabbits, llamas and dogs (and their owners) will compete in dozens of classes.

The fruits, vegetables, baked goods and canned goods, handiwork and fine arts of hundreds of rural and urban entrants will be on display in the various barns and display buildings.

The Western Reserve historical village and the carriage museum are open throughout.

High school bands will be playing and cheer leading squads competing at the grandstand.

Hundreds of businesses, including all the area’s media outlets, maintain a presence at the fair.

Wait, there’s more

And those are all among the events and attractions available to anyone with the price of admission.

The midway features some 50 rides for young and old, and the fair maintains its tradition of providing first-rate grandstand entertainment.

And, of course, there is the food. From county fair staples to Mahoning Valley ethnic specialities, there is something to please every taste.

So, starting today, people in Mahoning and surrounding counties have a choice to make. They can mourn the approaching end of summer, or they can celebrate the season at the Canfield Fair.

We heartily recommend the latter.