57th annual Washington County Fair kicks off in Richmond

RICHMOND, R.I. (WLNE) — The 57th annual Washington County Fair kicked off Wednesday in Richmond, drawing thousands from across the state and beyond.

It may not have been perfect fair weather, but that didn’t stop crowds from coming out to this year’s kick-off for the celebrations.

Fair gates opened at 8 a.m., bringing in visitors from all across the country to check out one of the biggest fairs in Rhode Island.

“So, every year is different, right, it’s going to vary on the weather, who we have on the stage. But I can tell you, I answer all of our fair emails and I get emails from people in Maine, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Mass, and all-over New England, plus New Jersey. We’ll draw in a huge crowd. We’re kind of a very unique fair,” said Kate Fish, the county fair’s vice chair.

Part of the reason for drawing people in from so far is because the whole event is operated by volunteers, and most of their food booths are run by nonprofits.

The fair has everything one could expect: rides, food, games, animals, and massive stuffed prizes.

“My day’s been fabulous,” said Michaela Amitramo, showing off her massive stuffed bear. “We did an egg toss earlier, we went to go watch the dairy competition, and then I won this incredible prize.” 

“I’m going to lug him to the car and hope he fits in the trunk! Or he can enjoy the concert with us, and then we’re going to see how he fits in the car later,” she said.

Amitramo told ABC 6 News that she tries to come out to the fair every year, but even first-time fairgoers said they’re glad they made the trip.

“I’m actually from New York, I came out to visit a friend, and he told me this was the heart of Rhode Island, so I decided to, you know, come out and see what it’s about.” said Tyshawn James.

James said he thinks anyone looking to check out the fair should do it and show their love for the Ocean State.

Staff told ABC 6 that Saturday will likely be the busiest day, but any day is good to come enjoy the event.

The fair runs until Sunday night at 8 p.m., and Thursday is “military appreciation day,” meaning active military and veterans can come enjoy the fair for free.