The event that now rates as "America's oldest agricultural fair" began as several farmers' scheme to "promote and improve the agricultural interests of farmers and others in Essex County," thus founding the Essex Agricultural Society in 1818. Though the Society initially exchanged information by pamphlet, members later held a Cattle Show in Topsfield in 1820, featuring committee reports on livestock including working oxen, neat cattle, dairy cows, fat oxen and swine. Since then, the Topsfield Fair has evolved into a ten-day community festival, maintaining its agricultural emphasis while expanding to include an opening day parade, vendors, sand sculptors, a food court, carnival rides, demonstrations (ranging from beekeeping to miniature trains), a Grange Museum and daily grandstand shows starring nationally known musical acts. For real taste of the country, check out the pumpkin weigh-offs, sheep shearing, bull riding and the American Honey Princess. -- Julia Clinger (Photo: Courtesy Topsfield Fair)