The last few years I have made the trek to the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in early summer for one of my favorite events of the year: The Country Living Fair.
Featuring more than 200 vendors from more than 30 states, the fair, which is May 31-June 2 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., is expected to draw more than 20,000 visitors and for good reason. No matter what your taste or style, there is something for everyone.
There is plenty of shopping to do. I always go with a list of items I want to find (last year I was on the hunt for vintage suitcases to turn into a side table), but I always end up leaving with items I never knew I always wanted (like the blueberry boxes I acquired two years ago and ended up making into planters with succulents and moss).
And shopping is not all the fair has to offer, there are plenty of celebrities, craft and food mavens to meet, and demonstrations to take in as well. Starting on Friday you can see and meet such pros as Nancy Fuller of Food Network’s Farmhouse Rule’s (below) or get tips from the creator of Chalk Paint, Annie Sloan. Plus, the editors and creative team behind Country Living magazine will also be there for food and craft demonstrations alike.
There is food and drink to purchase in between making it one of the most fun events I have been to in a long time. Grab your girlfriends, mom, mother-in-law, sisters, and come on down to the fair. I’ll see you there.
Country Living Fair
Dutchess County Fairgrounds
6550 Spring Brook Ave.
For Tickets: One-day admission is $13 in advance and $18 at the door; three-day weekend passes are available for $15 in advance and $25 at the door;
An Early Bird three-day weekend pass is available for $30 in advance and $40 at the door and grants early admission at 8:30 a.m. on Friday and Saturday;
Free admission for children ages 16 and under;
New this year are print-at-home tickets available at: www.stellashows.com;
The Fair is held rain or shine and there’s plenty of free parking.
