Thursday night marked the first night of the 2013 Rochester Country Fair, and the festivities lived up to all of the hype.
More than a thousand Tri-Town residents made their way to the grounds upon the event’s 4:00 start, with a packed parking lot by 7:00 on a beautiful evening.
“People are having a great time, and everything is going according to plan,” said a smiling Board of Selectmen Chair Naida Parker, holding court in the Lions Club booth. “The weather couldn’t be better, which is a good thing after all of the rain made things so difficult last year.”
Amid a cornucopia of concessions, a mechanical bull, and merchants showcasing gadgets, gizmos, clothing, and other products, the main draw on Thursday was the Southern New England Truck Pullers Association competition, which featured dozens of drivers flexing their vehicular muscle. Crowds marveled as souped-up trucks of every kind roared down a dirt course, straining with decibels, dust, and the tonnage of trailers.
“It’s a sight to see,” one Rochester resident said, “and a noise to hear.”
Chris Brienza, a SNETPA member from Rhode Island, said that the organization was enjoying their only night at the Rochester Country Fair.
“It’s a great event,” Brienza said. “Everyone has been very welcoming, and we’re having a blast putting on the show.”
The Rochester Country Fair runs through Sunday. Stay tuned to The Wanderer for more coverage, and see http://rochesterma.com for more information.
By Shawn Badgley
