HOULTON, Maine — As is tradition, the highly popular Houlton Agricultural Fair demolition derby drew the bulk of Sunday afternoon fairgoers ready for the sound of metal hitting metal in car crunching maneuvers.
This year’s agricultural fair had its popular events, including the demo derby, the hog market auction, the draft horse show, the cooking contests and the exhibit hall, but some things changed, such as the date and no midway rides.
Fair association organizers said they decided to change the date from around July 4 to make it more accessible for attendees and participants.
The earlier date was a scheduling and financial challenge for organizers because volunteers were already committed to Independence Day celebrations and activities, and several Greater Houlton Chamber of Commerce events coincided with the fair, including Midnight Madness and the July 4 parade.
“The Houlton Fair has been a beloved tradition in our community for many years, and we are always seeking ways to improve and adapt to the needs and desires of our changing community,” said Fair President Colby Dunn.
Houlton’s first fair was in 1847, and it has continued in many different forms since then. In the mid-1800s the Maine Press Association invited state editors to the Houlton and Presque Isle fairs, increasing interest in The County.
Organizers could not be reached on Monday morning regarding how the changes were received by the community.
Despite no rides, the kids’ zone, with bouncy houses, games and an inflatable double slide was a hit, according to Roxanne Bruce, co-owner of Shiretown Gaming the organizer of the three-day event.
It was a popular spot, with 503 kids who came to bounce, 107 kids competed in games and 1,068 games were played.
“The fair gave us $800 to purchase prizes, and they brought in the bounce houses, dunk tank and hammer challenge,” she said.
The kids zone gave out 2,106 prizes, $65 fair bucks, Bruce added.
As far as food, the Bashahegan Lodge, of Danforth, was popular with its loaded fries, poutine, nachos and sausages. The Greater Houlton Christian Academy was also busy with the more traditional hot dogs, burgers, fried and grilled cheese.
For the handful of fairgoers not at the demo derby, Ryan Holt of Roxbury was a popular stop with his how to start a fire demonstration.
Holt of the Discovery Channel’s Naked and Afraid fame, also owns The Om Dome Hostel and Spiritual Center in Roxbury.
As Holt created fire by twirling a flint spark, onlookers were mesmerized and quick to purchase his flint necklaces that come with fire tinder.
By about 5 p.m., the crowds were thinning with the exception of the demo derby still going strong.
The gates closed on this year’s fair at 10 p.m.
