N7O D
FOR FIVE DAYS
in August, this year from Aug. 13 – 17, the scent of freshly popped kettle corn, sounds of bells ringing as people celebrate midway game victories, and sights of farm animals become the norm for Rhode Island locals and visitors alike.
The Washington County Fair’ s fifty-eight-year-old legacy provides attendees with an affordable, family-friendly escape during the month of August. The celebration of agriculture grants a behind-the-scenes look at farm life, with an entire agricultural building complete with flower, vegetable and grange exhibits. Farm animals are the focus during the fair’ s livestock shows, where Ocean Staters can look on in awe as farmers proudly parade their prized animals around. Artists are spotlighted during the fair’ s needlework, ceramics and photography exhibits, while bakers have their chance to shine in various baking contests. Other friendly contests include a cornhole tournament, arm wrestling contest, and don’ t forget about the annual tug-o-war, where channeling your inner animal, while being surrounded by them, is encouraged. In the spirit of family-friendly fun, kids can enjoy activities like three-legged races, egg tosses, mooing contests and more farm-related games. Live music is heard as guests snack on food from the many vendors. The only thing patrons should worry about, aside from figuring out how many corn dogs are too many, is which straw hat they’ ll wear during the five-day event. Photographer Maaike Bernstrom spent a day capturing fairgoers at the annual event. washingtoncountyfair-ri. com
112 RHODE ISLAND MONTHLY I AUGUST 2025