Arts & Entertainment

Giant Pumpkin Weigh-In: What to Know About the Topsfield Fair on Friday, Oct. 4

Here's a look at some of the special things you will find at the Topsfield Fair on Friday, Oct. 4. Check for this daily feature here on Beverly Patch through the fair's closing day on Columbus Day, Monday, Oct. 14.

Friday, Oct. 4 is the opening day of the 2013 Topsfield Fair, the oldest fair in the country.

Gates open at 1 p.m. and close at 11 p.m. at the Essex Agricultural Society's Fairground at 207 Boston St. (Route 1) in Topsfield. The agricultural buildings close at 10 p.m.

The weather forecast calls for a cloudy day with temperatures in the 70s. There is a slight chance of showers in the late afternoon and evening.

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There's a midway ride special on Friday, where you get unlimited rides for $20 on all rides except the bumper cars from 1-11 p.m.

The 2013 American Honey Queen Caroline Adams will be in the Beekeeping Building all day.

Find out what's happening in Swampscottwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

In the grandstand, it is the first of three days of Dock Dogs competition. It is free with admission and runs all day.

The New England Giant Pumpkin Weigh-In starts at 1 p.m. in the Arena and will run into the evening until a champion is crowned.

In the Essex County Farmyard (the grassy area in front of Coolidge Hall), the popular money pole contest will run at 4 p.m. and 6 p.m.

On Arena Road (the road between the pig barn and arena), a High Dive Show will perform at 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and 6 p.m.

"Oncoming Traffic" will perform on the Trianon Stage from 7 p.m. through 10 p.m.

The day will end with fireworks at 9 p.m.

Admission is weekday pricing - $11 for adults on Monday. Children under eight are free with a paying adult. Parking is $10 per car.


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