March 29, 2024
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Tiny Unity swells as fair-goers find common ground 26th annual event runs through Sunday

UNITY – The small town of Unity was transformed into a bustling metropolis Friday as the first wave of visitors converged on the 26th annual Common Ground Country Fair, Maine’s premier alternative gathering sponsored by the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association.

More than 500 volunteers helped keep things running smoothly on the 230-acre site, which is dedicated to organic farming and gardening, protecting the environment and overall healthy living. Friday was opening day of the three-day fair and fair director Heather Spaulding said attendance was well above usual.

By Sunday night, it is expected that more than 40,000 people will visit the fair, lured by fun, food, workshops and education.

The air Friday was filled with the smell of Sweet Annie, a delightful herb, which competed with the smells from apple cider, lamb kebabs, sauteed mushrooms and clam chowder. American Indian drums filled the air along with the cluck of turkeys and the bawl of oxen.

Organic food, organic compost, organic milk and meat – even organic catnip – were offered by a wide range of vendors. Handmade pottery, clothing, jewelry, and other items were offered, as well as workshops on blacksmithing, basket making, rug hooking, carving and candle making.

In the agriculture education tent, one of a dozen on the fairgrounds, farmers could sign up to be organically certified, learn about saving heirloom seeds, or request additional education.

“We have lots of new and interesting exhibits this year,” said Spaulding, “so be sure and keep your eyes and ears open, and try to take part in some of the events.”

Special events scheduled for today include a public policy teach-in with several of Maine’s gubernatorial, senatorial and congressional candidates.

“This will not be a debate, but rather an opportunity for the candidates to present their perspectives on a variety of pertinent issues,” said Sharon Tisher, public policy adviser for MOFGA.

Spaulding said that since many people come to the Common Ground Country Fair to learn more about agricultural issues, “it will be quite interesting to see what these candidates have to say on farming issues.” Those candidates who will attend are Jonathan Carter, John Michael, and Chellie Pingree. John Baldacci and Susan Collins had originally planned to attend but canceled this week, said Spaulding.

Other events set for Saturday and Sunday include seed processing demonstrations, sheep shearing, homeopathic care for animals, herbal workshops, a manure pitch-off, dyeing fiber, and many workshops on environmental concerns, energy and shelter.

Performers include Women With Wings, Delco Ray, Desparate Avikadoz, and other singers, musicians and dancers.

The fair is located of Route 220 in Unity and runs Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.


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