About the Fair . . .
The fair is one of the state's oldest, briefest, and most popular community events. The first fair in 1913 raised just over one hundred dollars for the upkeep of the local Baptist church. (The Georgetown Historical Society has pictures of early fairs.) By 1939 when fair revenues amounted to $245.71, members voted gifts of $10 each to the community cancer and Christmas funds and later, during the war, to the Red Cross.
In 1977 a group of League members (some of them lifelong Georgetown residents, some of them retirees who had spent childhood summers in Georgetown, and some of them strictly "from away," created a quilt to be raffled at the fair and decided that the revenues would benefit the community at large. They inspired an event which, though it still lasts for only four hours, and still takes place the second Tuesday in August, now raises close to $15,000 in support of Georgetown's fire and ambulance services, its library, and several scholarships. The winning ticket for this year's quilt, “Postcards from Reid State Park”, will be drawn at 1 PM on the day of the fair. The winner does not need to be present to win!
In recent years the fair that once occupied a church vestry has grown to fill the Georgetown Central School and several schoolyard tents. Many of Georgetown's renowned artists provide works for a gallery that attracts buyers from all over the state. Shoppers line up early for a first crack at the "white elephants," known for including many wonderful vintage treasures. Crafts, all made and donated by League members and other Georgetown artisans, include new designer-wear and one-of-a-kind household items at rummage sale prices. Shoppers will also find bargains in books, jewelry, custom stationery, and baked goods. Artists and craftsmen and women demonstrate their skills to an always enthralled audience! Children can devour hot dogs, while their parents enjoy a salad luncheon made of seafood harvested and donated by Georgetown fishermen. Georgetown teenagers volunteer their services as waiters and waitresses, creating a charming and carefree experience in dining! Come to the fair and enjoy a truly unique Maine experience!
Why Tuesday?
This is a question that is often asked by folks, accustomed to weekend events, who come to the fair. The Georgetown Working League has always held its business meeting the 2nd Tuesday of each month, and in keeping with that tradition, the fair is held each year on the second Tuesday of August.
