Business & Tech

What You Need to Know About the Topsfield Fair: Columbus Day, Monday, Oct. 8

Here's a look at some of the special things you will find at the Topsfield Fair on Columbus Day, Monday, Oct. 8.

Monday, Oct. 8, is the final day of the 2012 Topsfield Fair, the oldest fair in the country. Gates open at 10 a.m. and close at 11 p.m. The agricultural buildings close at 10 p.m.

In the grandstand, the Flying Wallendas arrive for the last of three days of high-wire performances. They will perform for free at 2 and 7 p.m.

The winners of the Parent and Child Cookie Celebration will be announced in Coolidge Hall at 2 p.m.

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In the arena on Monday afternoon and evening are two car competition - Figure 8 races at 3:30 p.m. and the Demolition Derby at 7 p.m. Before that in the arena will be a draft horse show.

Many other free shows are happening throughout the day across the fairgrounds. The Maximum Velocity BMX Bike Show is on the Arena Road at 11 a.m. and 1, 3 and 5 p.m.

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The Great American Duck Race and Robinson's Racing Pigs are opposite each other on the Grange Road. The Duck Race happens at 11 a.m. and 1, 3 and 5 p.m. The pigs races go off at noon, 2, 4 and 6 p.m.

The State Police K-9 team will also be on display in the Essex County Farmyard at noon and 2 p.m. 

Admission is weekend and holiday pricing - $15 for adults on Monday. Children under eight are free with a paying adult. Parking is $10 per car.


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