If you know what tennis balls, hand lotion and sweater ‘pills’ have in common, you’ve probably been to a county fair or festival. If you don’t know, the answer is sheep wool. As Fred DePaul, a regular exhibitor at events hugs a ewe in preparation for a shearing demonstration explains, “The top knot, right here on the head is best for tennis balls.” As a crowd gathers, lured by his hearty laugh and fluffy partner he continues, “Feel that oil on your hands when you stroke the wool? That’s lanolin. You can tell when the sheep have struggled and been cut in layers. You end up with too many short strands, which turn into those little pills on your sweaters.”
Most first time visitors to the state expect to be dazzled by neon lights, awed by designers and exhausted by the time they leave. What they don’t expect, especially those traveling to NYC, is the abundance of fresh flowers, organic produce, and handcrafted items available. In other words: “country” things.
Mary Oates, another frequent presenter at county fairs, is a wool spinner who thrives on the city-country bond. She leads weaving demonstrations, offering a handful of her own colorful angora to anyone wanting to take a spin. “Anyone interested in pushing themselves creatively attends these fairs. There’s no better place to get inspired…all the rich natural pigments artists use, in everything from scarves to shawls to quilts to paintings. My kids come to sample the gourmet foods, pastries and the produce. Talk about the best ingredients!”
Where do we find these treasure troves? Fortunately, fairs and festivals light up the state like fireworks during the summer. The fun ranges from county gatherings to the landmark Great New York State Fair that draws more than 1 million visitors each year to Syracuse. (August 15 – Sept. 1.) You’ll find everything from amusement park classics to antique car shows, art competitions, agricultural fineries, new invention demonstrations- including the all-new “outdoor living room” replete with a sod couch constructed by area 4 H teens. One look at the entertainment line-up and you may want to add a few nights to your schedule. From the Jonas Brothers and Goo Goo Dolls to ZZ Top, 2008 has all the makings of a fair to remember.
New York’s two-time Olympic village, Lake Placidagain brings competitors and fans from around the world for summer events. Throughout July and August you can attend the Ice Dance Championships, Ironman USA, and an Irish Festival all occuring in Lake Placid. The Adirondacks also offers the Stony Creek Mountain Festival weekend with re-enactors, food and music.
The toast of the day may vary, but the common ingredient is a unique quintessential blend found only in New York State.
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