The Resilient Revival of the Wapping Fair
A Community's Rallying Call
Following the closure of the South Windsor Jaycees, who had been stewards of the fair since 2001, a significant challenge presented itself. The Wapping Fair, a cornerstone of community engagement since 1892, risked discontinuation. In response, Brian Warren initiated the formation of the "Friends of the Wapping Fair" in February 2024 to ensure the continuation of this cherished local tradition.
Brian's initiative quickly morphed into a rallying point. By March, a robust team of community leaders and volunteers had laid down plans to reorganize the fair from the ground up—facing the herculean task of compressing a year's worth of planning into just under 8 months.
The "Excuse Our Appearance As We Remodel" Year
2024 has been affectionately dubbed the "Excuse our appearance as we remodel" year by the board members of the Friends of Wapping Fair. The dedicated board includes:
- David Prior Jr. - President
- Brian Warren - First Vice President
- Patrick Mitchell - Second Vice President
- Matt Mitchell - Third Vice President
- Erica Fearn - Treasurer
- Sonja Starkel - Secretary
- Steven King Jr.
- Dawn Holcombe
- Nicole Lucas
- Becky Brennan
- Janet Ferguson - Livestock Advisor (not a board member)
As the fair is reconstructed, there is a clear and present need for additional support. Food trucks, craft vendors, and volunteers are urgently needed to fill out the roster and ensure the fair's success. The community's involvement is more crucial than ever. Links to the forms are below.
Discover the Magic of the Wapping Fair 2024
Scheduled from September 5th to 8th, the Wapping Fair promises an array of attractions that honor its heritage while introducing new elements to enhance the experience. Located at the John Mitchell Fairgrounds near Rye Street in South Windsor, the event is set to showcase everything from thrilling rides provided by Rockwell Amusements to animal encounters and masterful artisan demonstrations, as well as agriculture, livestock, and artistry exhibits from talented area juniors and adults.
Fair Hours and Ticket Information
- Thursday: 5 PM - 10 PM
- Friday: 5 PM - 11 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM - 11 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM - 6 PM
General Admission (GA): $20 - Includes unlimited ride wristband
Seniors: $7 - Without ride wristband
Seniors: $14 - Includes unlimited ride wristband
Children 3 and under: Free - No rides access
Pay One Price Admission
David Prior Jr., the president of the Friends of the Wapping Fair, recently addressed community concerns over the Pay One Price (POP) admission strategy. This model was chosen after careful consideration and comparison with nearby fairs, ensuring the fair remains accessible while offering a full slate of attractions. Families will find the Wapping Fair an exceptional value, with significant savings compared to other local events. For those concerned about the cost relative to their use of the fair’s offerings, remember, there are numerous activities beyond rides—including live music, doodlebug draws, livestock shows, and more. Volunteers who can dedicate four hours or more of their time can earn free admission tickets, and there are additional special benefits for nonprofit and school groups.
Engaging Activities and Entertainment
- Thrilling Rides: Over 14 spectacular rides, including the Gondola Wheel and Carousel.
- Animal Shows: Live animal exhibits for an up-close experience with nature’s marvels.
- Artisanal Crafts: Local artisans displaying their crafts, offering unique souvenirs and gifts.
- Livestock, Agricultural, Baking and Artistry Exhibits: Educational agricultural displays showcasing the skills and talents of local juniors and adults, plus a live baby chick exhibit.
- Dynamic Demonstrations: Live demonstrations by skilled craftsmen at Faith & Fire Forge.
Culinary Delights
The fair will also feature an extensive selection of food options, from local barbecue to exotic treats, ensuring that every visitor finds something to tantalize their taste buds.
Exhibitor Information
The Wapping Fair is proud to host a wide array of exhibitors showcasing livestock, agriculture, baking, artistry, and more. These exhibits are a key part of the fair's tradition, offering an opportunity for both juniors and adults to display their talents and compete for prizes and recognition.
Exhibit Registration and Guidelines: All exhibitors are encouraged to carefully read the premium book and adhere to the deadlines and guidelines provided. Entry forms for animal, agriculture, and artistry exhibits must be submitted by August 31st, 2024. Non-animal entries can be delivered starting Tuesday, September 3rd, through Saturday morning, September 7th, until 9 AM.
For those showing livestock, it is mandatory to check in before unloading animals to ensure health papers are reviewed and animals are inspected. Exhibitors must also note that premium money will be forfeited if exhibits are removed before 5 PM on Sunday or if they are not picked up by 6 PM.
Livestock Exhibits
Livestock exhibits, including dairy cows, beef cattle, goats, sheep, and poultry, are an integral part of the Wapping Fair. Exhibitors are required to follow specific guidelines, such as ensuring animals have been owned or managed for at least six months prior to the fair. Health and safety standards are strictly enforced, and exhibitors must provide proper care for their animals throughout the fair's duration.
Agriculture and Artistry Exhibits
In addition to livestock, the fair features a wide range of agricultural and artistry exhibits. Categories include fruits, vegetables, canned goods, baked goods, needlework, sewing, artwork, and photography. Exhibitors are encouraged to showcase their creativity and skills, with numerous opportunities to win ribbons and cash prizes.
The Wapping Fair's exhibit area will be open for the public to view on both Saturday and Sunday. Exhibitors are reminded to ensure their displays are in place by 9 AM on Saturday and remain intact until the fair's closing on Sunday.
Join the Celebration and Make a Difference
The fair is actively seeking participants in several categories:
- Food Vendors: A chance to showcase culinary skills to a large audience. (Deadline has passed) -
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - Volunteers: Opportunities for community members to engage and contribute. -
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - Sponsors: An invitation for businesses to enhance their visibility and support a cherished local event.
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - Craft Vendors: A platform for creators to display and sell their work. -
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - Exhibit Livestock, Agriculture, Baking & Artistry - Opportunities for Juniors and Adults to enter their livestock, agricultural, baking and artistry skills, accomplishments, and talents in Wapping Fair Premium Exhibits for prizes and ribbons.
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - for agriculture and artistry exhibit questionsThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - for animal exhibit questions
Volunteers play a vital role in ensuring the fair runs smoothly, with opportunities available in parking direction, gate monitoring, hospitality assistance, and general cleanliness. These tasks are essential yet not physically demanding, making them accessible for many volunteers. Individuals who contribute four or five (one shift)hours of their time will be rewarded with a complimentary one-day pass to the fair. Nonprofit civic groups, school-related groups, and home-school groups that provide volunteer services will receive a stipend and a one-day pass for each volunteer for each 10 shifts covered.
Stay Informed and Involved
Please keep checking back on the website, www.wappingfair.org for the latest updates regarding performances, vendor listings, and other exciting news as the event approaches. We also invite all interested parties to attend our monthly meetings, held on the fourth Wednesday of every month. Details and locations are posted in the Friends of Wapping Fair Facebook group.
The revival of the Wapping Fair is a testament to the resilience and spirit of the South Windsor community. As the event draws closer, more volunteers and vendors are encouraged to join this vibrant celebration. The fair not only promises a return to its roots but also a step into a future where community and tradition continue to thrive side by side.
