Country Fair

At Hancock Shaker Village

Way back in 1807, Elkanah Watson was bursting with pride. Watson, a New York City businessman with a longing for a rural life, had purchased two merino sheep—a ram and ewe—while on a trip to Europe and had brought them to Pittsfield

Known for their fine wool in Europe, the breed was completely unknown in New England, and Watson decided to let others have a close look at his specimens. He tethered them under a tree on the village green, now known as Park Square.

Even the proud Watson was surprised by the response. "Many farmers, even females, were attracted to this humble exhibition. If two animals are capable of exciting so much attention, what would be the effect of a display on a larger scale with different animals." Three years later, the first “Cattle Show and Agricultural Fair” took place on the green giving birth to an annual tradition that spread throughout New England.

What better place to revisit this tradition than at Hancock Shaker Village, a historic recreation of an 1800s agricultural village only five miles from Park Square.

This weekend, the village will hold its 26th annual Country Fair, from 10AM to 5PM both days.

This iconic autumn event once again features a wide variety of activities and events across the village, with more than 60 artisanal craft vendors that include soap-makers, weavers, blacksmiths, metal forgers and woodworkers. There will be an array of fine artists and craftsmen as well as musical performances, food trucks and locally brewed beer and cider.

In honor of 1923 REO ‘s 100th birthday, the village is hosting a car show at the Country Fair.

Tickets to Country Fair are included in the price of regular admission. Prepurchase tickets here.