LYNDONVILLE – The Caledonia County fair ended its 179th run Sunday, Aug. 24, with families enjoying their choice of over thirty carnival rides and exhibitions featuring FMX freestyle dirt bikes, birds of prey and reptiles.
photo by Raymonda Parchment
Located in the heart of Lyndonville, the state’s oldest fair was first held on September 15, 1855.
photo by Raymonda Parchment
Both children and adults had their opportunity to participate in a demolition derby on Sunday. The little ones competed in the early afternoon, giving them ample recovery time before their return to school last week.
photo by Raymonda Parchment
Later in the day, their parents and other adults had their time to shine as the sound of metal crashing into metal echoed across the fairgrounds.
photo by Raymonda Parchment
The county’s agricultural winners were still on display, showing a wide array of the areas decidedly best vegetables. Attendees had their final chance to look at the Caledonia 4-H exhibitions, showcasing livestock, veterinary science, technology, engineering, food and nutrition, gardening, sewing, arts and crafts, photography, shooting sports, archery and more.
photo by Raymonda Parchment
photo by Raymonda Parchment
The 4-H Marshfield Monarchs googly-eye vegetables were especially captivating , with “Mike the Muscly Man” and two other zucchini figures taking Best in Show.
Strolling acts throughout the grounds included Pirate Man Dan, a family-friendly comedy show utilizing silly props and pirate themed gags. Gene “The Snakeman” Fredericks of St. Johnsbury had a Serpents Den themed exhibition, with children and adults experiencing the close companionship of a snake wrapping itself around their necks, arms and waists.
The Caledonia County Fair will return for its 180th year in 2026.
Raymonda Parchment is a Hardwick Gazette reporter. She recently graduated from Vermont State University - Castleton with a Bachelor’s Degree in English. She is a strong supporter of freedom of speech, and the right to publish information, opinions, and ideas without censorship or restraint. She is a lifelong lover of the written word, and is excited to join the team as a staff member.
