Putnam County Fair Needs Volunteers

PUTNAM COUNTY, NY — Classic cars, milkshakes, dog demonstrations, racing rubber ducks and pony rides — it all happens at the Putnam County Fair and 4-H Showcase coming up in late July, and you can help.

If you’re a student who needs community service hours or an adult who simply enjoys lending a hand, consider volunteering at the fair.

• WHEN: from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday
• WHERE: Putnam County Veterans Memorial Park, 201 Gipsy Trail Road in Carmel.

Whether it’s listening to local bands like 1/3 of Sophie, washing down fresh-grilled corn with a classic milkshake or jumping in a bounce house with cotton candy-streaked cheeks, there’s something for everyone at the fair.

“The Putnam County Fair and 4-H Showcase is a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together and celebrate the rich heritage and vibrant culture of our county,” said County Executive Kevin Byrne. “This event not only highlights the talents and hard work of our 4-H members but also provides a platform for local businesses, artisans, and musicians to shine. I encourage everyone to join us for a weekend filled with fun, learning, and community spirit.”

Cornell Cooperative Extension’s 4-H Youth Development Program will be showcasing demonstrations, educational exhibits, projects, animal showmanship, face painting, crafts, 4-H milkshakes, lemonade, a puppet show and more. The Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Master Gardener Volunteers will host an “Ask a Master Gardener Booth,” as well as staff educational displays. The Trailblazers 4-H Club will be on hand with Archery demonstrations for the public and the 4-H STEAM Teens will be doing a variety of STEAM demos including a SPHERO Robot Obstacle Course! The Tall Oaks 4-H Horse Club will show off their horsemanship skills all day Sunday.

In addition to the 4-H Showcase, there will be a variety of food trucks, fun inflatables, games for kids and craft vendors during both days of the event.

Bill Hammond is heading up the entertainment as the emcee for the weekend and bands Not Tuna, Dawgs Who Can Read, 1/3 of Sophie, The Kids in the Basement, North Star, The Society and the Guardian “ENCORE” will take the stage.

The NY Cruisers Car Show will take place on Saturday (rain date: Sunday) and Guardian Revival will showcase their Boots & Paws program on Sunday. The event culminates with the annual Duck Derby hosted by Cornell Cooperative Extension Putnam County.

“The Putnam County Fair and 4-H Showcase is more than an event. It’s a tradition – a tapestry woven with community spirit,” said Stefanie Hubert, executive director of CCE-Putnam. “Bringing together nonprofit organizations, food and craft vendors, children and adults through education, food, entertainment and exhibits cultivates connections and builds on what people know and love about this event. It’s a celebration of summer, past and present, in Putnam County.”

Bring your family and friends and let’s get QUACKIN! Want to Adopt a Duck and take part in the Derby? Please visit the website.