See how far these animals can drag a load twice their weight. Frequently, you ll find farmers raising animals just for the pulls. Agriculturaln fairs must also have specific agricultural exhibits, such as a grange exhibit, an exhibition hall, a 4-H component and livestock. Moreover, they must fulfill a probationary period that lasts three years. Finally, they are continually observed for safety and health by the Maine Association of Agricultural Fairs, part of the Maine Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources.
Maine fairs are almost as old as the nation.
Others, such as the Monmouth Fair, near Augusta, are so small, you could almost hug them. All the fairs in or near the Mid-Coast offer harness racing, though there is no wagering at the Blue Hill Fair. At virtually every fair, you can fill yourself with cotton candy and fried dough with one exception. The Common Ground Fair, sponsored by the Maine Organic Farmer s and Gardener s Association, allows no sugar you won t be able to get cotton candy. Nor can you buy a cup of coffee or put your child on a ride.