GILBERT, Pa. — This week marks the 102nd year of the annual West End Fair in Gilbert.
There's a lot going on in the Poconos this week, as the West End Fair is here once again. The seven day fair is in full swing and there is plenty to see and do.
"We have bands going all day long. We have a lot of free things such as our bands on our free stage. We have laser tag for the kids. We have story time on Tuesday with our local library," Julie Weiss said.
There is also a demo derby, truck pulls and a rodeo. There are more than 200 vendors at this year's West End Fair. Most of the food vendors are nonprofits.
"We have churches, we have fire companies, food pantries, Lions Club, PTOs, It's really great that our community thrives on our fair, just like we thrive from our community," Weiss said.
Speaking of food, both experienced farmers and newbies entered their produce in hopes of winning a blue ribbon. There are all kinds of exhibits and free entertainment throughout the fairgrounds. Kids can even be a farmer for a day at this interactive exhibit.
"They're taught how to be a farmer. They can pick vegetables, they can pick fruits, they're taught how our food is grown. Really, they just get the hands-on learning experience," Jen Rufo said.
And another fair highlight is of course the animals. Between the cows, sheep and rabbits, there are lots of critters here.
"Definitely it take a lot of hard work and dedication. My family has been showing here for over 40 years. It's definitely now come down to a tradition," West End Fair Princess Abygail Borger said.
The West End Fair's last day is this Saturday, August 24th.