Franklin County Fair starts Thursday with parade

GREENFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – The annual Franklin County Fair gets underway on Thursday, with thousands expected to gather in Greenfield for agricultural competitions, live performances, rides, food, a demolition derby, and more.

Gates to the fairgrounds at 89 Wisdom Way open at 3 p.m., but the annual parade to celebrate the opening of the fair starts at 5 p.m. at the Greenfield Middle School on Federal Street.

The parade will work its way down Main Street, River Street, and Laurel Street, before ending at the fairgrounds, where spectators will be watching its arrival from the grandstands.

The fair is open daily through Sunday, opening at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, and 8:00 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The four-day event has become a beloved tradition for many visitors, celebrating Franklin County’s agriculture. Fairgoers this weekend have a chance to help support farmers by checking out livestock shows. It also provides an educational experience for kids.

“Y-H comes up and gets young kids involved learning how to take care of cattle, sheep, hens chickens, rabbits, and so forth and just farming,” explained Vice President of the Franklin County Fair,” Russell Cross.

The fair kicked off with a parade down Greenfield’s Main Street. It also features pig racing, trampoline, and ax throwing shows, for many to enjoy.

“It’s just great the people can come out and still enjoy themselves and just have fun,” added Cross.

A BMX show is also taking place Friday night, with a truck pull Saturday night, and a demolition derby Sunday. Fair officials expect nearly 15,000 visitors by the time the fair comes to a close Sunday night.

Click here for a complete schedule of events and more information about the fair.

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