Hometown pride :The Solanco Fair

The Solanco Fair is an event that I attended since I can remember. Members of my extended family would join my family to sit out on our front lawn and take in the festivities. As time progressed, I lost my interest in attending the fair activities; watching the parade from the living room window of my house. I would visit the fair early morning before school or late evenings after most had left. It was after I moved away and returned with my point and shoot that I learned to appreciate the fair; the showcasing the tradition of a small town.

Well again it is this time of year when residents of Quarryville, as well as surrounding areas line up their lawn chairs on the sidewalks. The parade makes it’s way down the main streets of the town, leading to it’s final destination of the fairgrounds. It’s been tradition for fair attendees to walk behind the parade as it’s nearing the end. At the fairgrounds, local businesses are lined up on each side of the tent, free samples and easy going conversation set the stage for this annual event. Outside the tents, tractors of all varieties are showcased. In the barns, you will find the farm animals; pigs, llamas, cows, and sheep. Throughout the duration of the event they hold competitions where ribbons are awarded.

As in most fairs, the food is a highlight for most. You have your usual with that Southern touch. Staples include chicken pot pie, beef stew, ham supper, roast beef sandwiches and barbecue. And of course hamburgers, hot dogs, milkshakes, fries, funnel cakes, and cotton candy are among the top sellers.

I covered this event both in 2009, Solanco Fair, Fries, Tractors, and Pigs, oh my!

And in 2010, It’s September in Quarryville.

I’ve highlighted the photographs from my blogposts which I feel best showcase the fair.