The 141st Erie County Fair kicked off Sunday in Wattsburg for a week filled with agriculture, entertainment, and activities. Organizers said with so many years in the fair’s history, it’s only right to bring it back for new generations to experience every year.<\/p>\n
“It’s been around for 141 years; generations of families have came to this fair, and we just want to continue that tradition,” said Corrie Boyd, the president of the fair.<\/p>\n
\u00a0McDowell prepares for return of James Conner at home opener\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n The fair showcases a variety of features and events, from tractor pulls and horse rodeos to live music, contests, and more. Beyond the entertainment, organizers said the fair has a bigger purpose: showcasing agriculture and educating the community about where it’s been and where it’s headed.<\/p>\n “Fairs are so important. It teaches kids about agriculture, it teaches where their food comes from, it just teaches them how things are grown, whether it’s that farmer with that prize-winning corn, or that avid gardener that wants to showcase their tomatoes, said Boyd.<\/p>\n “There needs to be a lot more knowledge, and a lot more training, and a lot more, you know, the younger generation needs to know what goes into all of this,” said Cheryl Bender, the former harness racing secretary. “When you’re caring for an animal, not only does it teach you responsibility, and respect, and kindness.”<\/p>\n That mission is reflected throughout the fair, with agriculture and local traditions center stage all week long, like the classic harness races.<\/p>\n