A Triumphant Return: The Success of the 2024 Wapping Fair
A Celebration of Community and Tradition
The Wapping Fair made a highly successful return in 2024, with attendance surpassing expectations. Over 6,000 visitors came out to enjoy the four-day event at the John Mitchell Fairgrounds, marking a triumphant milestone for the fair’s revitalization after a year of uncertainty. This year’s fair was not just about the rides, food, and attractions—it was a testament to the enduring spirit of the South Windsor community and its dedication to preserving local traditions.
A Rich History of the Wapping Fair
The Wapping Fair has been a cornerstone of the South Windsor community since 1892, when it was first held to help fund the Wapping District School. Throughout its long history, the fair has adapted to the changing times, relocating several times and evolving its offerings to meet the interests of new generations. From parades and public suppers in its early years to thrilling rides, artisan demonstrations, and agricultural exhibits today, the fair has become a cherished event for families in the region.
After a brief hiatus during World War II, the fair made a significant comeback in 1945, commemorating South Windsor’s 100th anniversary. Since then, it has become a beloved annual tradition, celebrating its 100th anniversary in 1992 and continuing to thrive today—except for a brief pause in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, with the Friends of Wapping Fair at the helm, the fair’s future looks brighter than ever.
Thanks to Our Community and Volunteers
The success of this year’s fair was made possible by the remarkable efforts of the Friends of Wapping Fair, the newly formed non-profit organization that stepped up after the South Windsor Jaycees disbanded earlier this year. Their vision to keep this long-standing tradition alive came to fruition through the hard work and commitment of volunteers, sponsors, and community members who believed in the fair’s importance.
We extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended the fair and to those who generously volunteered their time to make this year a success. From the board members to the many hands that contributed behind the scenes, the fair was a collective effort. Without the support of our volunteers, this event wouldn’t have been possible.
Exhibit Winners – Celebrating Local Talent
The fair showcased incredible talents across a wide range of categories, from baking and agriculture to sewing and artwork. We are proud to recognize the following winners who excelled in their respective fields:
Junior Fruits and Vegetables:
- Tallest Sunflower: Mira West – Best in Class and First Place
Junior Baking:
- Cookies: Kaitlyn Franklin – Best in Class and First Place
- CT State Baking Contest (Hermits): Kaitlyn Franklin – First Place
- King Arthur Flour Contest (Oatmeal Cookies): Eisa Lindhardt – First Place
Junior Collections & Hobbies:
- Holiday Decoration: Eisa Lindhardt – First and Second Place
- Other: Eisa Lindhardt – Best in Class and First Place
Junior Sewing:
- Crocheting (Afghan): Samerah Beason – First Place
- Crocheting (Other): Eisa Lindhardt – First Place
- Sewing (Other): Maren Lindhardt – Best in Class and First Place
Junior Floriculture:
- Cosmos: Mira West – First Place
- Dahlia: Brooke West – Best in Class and First Place
- Marigold: Mira West – First Place
Adult Fruits and Vegetables:
- Vegetable Collection (Single): Derek West – Best in Class and First Place
- Tallest Corn: Derek West – First Place
Adult Baking:
- Yeast Breads: Renee Bryll – First and Second Place
- Quick Breads: Alexandra Jones – First Place
- Cookies: Kristine Franklin – First Place
- Desserts (Other): Kristine Franklin – First Place
- Association of Connecticut Fairs Baking Contest (Zebra Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting): Kristine Franklin – Best in Class and First Place
- King Arthur Flour Contest (Sour Cream Coffee Cake): Carol Fong – First Place, Kristine Franklin – Second Place
Adult Needlework & Sewing:
- Crocheting (Other): Vicky Brinius – Best in Class and First Place, Amelia Powers – Second Place
Adult Artwork:
- Pastels: Sean Dylag – First Place
- Painting: Sean Dylag – Best in Class and First Place, Second Place
Adult Floriculture:
- Dahlia: Lindsay West – First Place
- Bouquet: Lindsay West – Best in Class and First Place
Looking Ahead to Next Year
As we close the chapter on the 2024 Wapping Fair, we are already looking ahead to 2025. The Friends of Wapping Fair are committed to building on this year’s success and continuing to enhance the experience for future fairs. We invite everyone to join us again next year for more fun, excitement, and community spirit.
For those interested in getting involved, whether as a volunteer, sponsor, or vendor, the Friends of Wapping Fair are always welcoming new members to help make the fair even better. Stay tuned for updates on our website and social media channels as we start planning for next year’s fair!
