New England Colonial Trade And Craft Fair
Introduction
The New England Colonial Trade and Craft Fair is an annual event held in New England, United States. This fair is a celebration of the rich history of the region and showcases the cultural heritage of the New England colonies.
History
The New England Colonial Trade and Craft Fair was first held in 1976, as part of the United States Bicentennial celebration. Since then, it has become an annual event that attracts thousands of visitors from all over the country.
The fair is a tribute to the colonial era, when New England was a hotbed of trade and commerce. It features exhibits and demonstrations of traditional crafts, such as pottery, blacksmithing, weaving, and woodworking. It also includes performances by musicians, dancers, and actors, all dressed in colonial attire.
Exhibits and Demonstrations
The New England Colonial Trade and Craft Fair offers a wide range of exhibits and demonstrations. Visitors can learn about traditional crafts, such as basket weaving, candle making, and spinning. They can also watch blacksmiths, silversmiths, and other artisans at work, using traditional tools and techniques.
There are also exhibits on colonial history, including displays of artifacts and documents from the era. Visitors can explore replicas of colonial homes, shops, and other buildings, and learn about the daily life of the early settlers.
Performances
The fair features a variety of performances by musicians, dancers, and actors, all dressed in colonial attire. Visitors can enjoy traditional folk music, colonial-era dances, and skits and plays that depict life in the colonies.
There are also demonstrations of colonial-era skills, such as falconry and horsemanship. Visitors can watch as skilled practitioners show off their abilities with birds of prey and trained horses.
Food and Drink
The New England Colonial Trade and Craft Fair is also a celebration of colonial cuisine. Visitors can sample traditional foods, such as cornbread, clam chowder, and apple pie. They can also try colonial-era drinks, such as cider and mead.
There are also demonstrations of colonial cooking techniques, such as open hearth cooking and smoking. Visitors can watch as skilled cooks prepare meals using traditional methods and ingredients.
Shopping
The fair is also a great place to shop for unique and handmade items. There are vendors selling traditional crafts, such as quilts, baskets, and pottery. There are also vendors selling colonial-style clothing, jewelry, and accessories.
Visitors can also find a wide range of books, toys, and other items related to colonial history and culture. There are also food vendors selling traditional treats, such as maple syrup, honey, and preserves.
Conclusion
The New England Colonial Trade and Craft Fair is a celebration of the rich history and culture of the region. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the colonial era through exhibits, demonstrations, performances, and food. Whether you are a history buff, a craft enthusiast, or just looking for a fun day out, this fair is not to be missed.