Celebrating 80 years of the Punkintown Fair in New Salem

NEW SALEM, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- The Punkintown Fair is celebrating its 80th anniversary in New Salem from July 18 to 20. The fair is put on each year by the New Salem Volunteer Fire Department.

New Salem is a hamlet in the town of New Scotland along Route 85 at the base of the Helderberg Escarpment that was first settled in the 1770s. The hamlet's name was originally "Punkintown," which is where the name of the fair comes from.

The Punkintown Fair first started in 1942. All proceeds from the fair go to the New Salem Volunteer Fire Department to update its rescue equipment and provide services to residents.

The three-day fair includes rides, games, and food and drink vendors. The fair also has a cash raffle with a $2,000 price for first place, $1,000 prize for second place, and $500 prize for third place, with more prizes available as well.

On opening night, all veterans, those currently serving in the Armed Forces, and those that paid the ultimate sacrifice, will be honored. The recognition ceremony will begin promptly at 6 p.m. at the Announcer’s Booth.

The Punkintown Fairgrounds are across the street from the New Salem Volunteer Fire Department Station 1 at 694 New Salem Road. Station 2 is located at 2069 New Scotland Road in Slingerlands.

The fair will be open from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on July 18, and 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. on July 19 and 20. Parking and admission are free.