Fall is our favorite season for festivals (ask us in spring and we’ll likely rank that as a favorite, too). It’s definitely a special time, thanks to the numerous events, activities, and opportunities to explore. The road trips are extra special as the already scenic views are colored with warm hues, even if there’s a hint of a (welcomed) chill in the air.
Chatham County is not only steeped in the farming traditions of generations of families, but it’s also a part of North Carolina that thrives on continuing to grow farms and preserve its rich rural character. Many of our fall festivals celebrate agriculture; this year was a blockbuster year as we heralded the end of summer with a last hurrah at Old-Fashioned Farmers’ Days in Silk Hope, its 50th year.
This is also a big year for the Chatham County Agricultural and Industrial Fair Association, marking the silver jubilee of their annual celebration. Rides, live music, fair foods, and many exhibits to illustrate Chatham’s history in agriculture are part of this year’s festival, taking place on-site at the Chatham County Fairgrounds.
A Legacy of Fostering Community
The Chatham County Agricultural & Industrial Fair has a rich and significant history. The organization shares that the initiative, “grew out of the tradition of ‘Achievement Day’ held annually by Home Demonstration and 4-H Clubs in the area. This event offered a chance for people to display their talent in household arts and receive prizes for their work.” Farm and Home Agent of Chatham County Mildred Bright Payton sought to create an experience that would spotlight the production of goods, skills, and crafts that shaped Chatham County’s rural Black communities, all while providing a safe and friendly space for Black residents to gather, visit, and celebrate. “Every agency and activity of self-help was embraced so families and culture could not only survive, but thrive.”
In 1950, the Chatham County Colored Agricultural Fair, Inc. welcomed 3,000 guests (and it was a rainy week), a signal of tremendous success. The second fair, held at the now Chatham County Fairgrounds, hosted more than 100 bona fide exhibitors, displaying more than three hundred items, including canned products, baked goods, clothing, needlework, art, crafts, and horticultural products to approximately 7,000 guests. Mr. and Mrs. Bennie Paige (Siler City, North Carolina) ran the Farm-and-Home booth, illustrating every phase of their farm-home living.
Since that time, the Fair has evolved into a tradition embraced by all of Chatham County’s residents. In fact, many newcomers to the fair may be unaware of its past. Though a more inclusive event is undoubtedly a vital step towards progress, we should also remember the fair’s significant history and recognize those who worked hard to bring you today’s beloved community celebration.
What to Expect
Though a lot has changed over the years, the core focus of the event has remained: celebrating the proud history, community, and rural character of Chatham County. Residents from across the area come out to display their arts and crafts, fruits, vegetables, baked goods, preserves, animals, and much more. As the fair has evolved, it has added livestock shows, a market auction, rodeos, performances, delicious food, and, of course, tons of thrilling carnival rides for the whole family.
This year’s celebration will feature:
Displays, exhibits, and demonstrations. - Amusement rides, games, and concessions.
- Performances from a wide variety of musicians on the outdoor stage, including Tenor Saxophonist and Fair Volunteer Stan Malette, Pat and the Kountry Boys, Nina Johnson, and local favorite Liquid Pleasure.
- Several special programs indoors, including dance performances, the crowd-pleasing annual Fashion Show Expo, and the Little Miss CHatham County Fair Pageant.
- Contests, raffles, and prizes.
- Tons of local vendors and food trucks.
More milestones for the next several months include Chatham Celebrates America 250, an ongoing national event that honors the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the significant history of each city, town, and state. While we look to the rosy parts of history to share awe of happenings that transformed our nation, state, and county, we also consider the fact that many strides have been made and continue to be made as we progress collectively.
We welcome you to join us in recognizing 75 Years of the Chatham County Agricultural and Industrial Fair. Need help planning your visit? Contact us for itinerary recommendations and travel tips.
