For 125 years, Meriden Grange No. 29 has served as a celebration of community service, agriculture and rich traditions.  On Saturday, September 11th, they will host their 81st Annual Fair.  The Meriden Grange Fair brings the community together and showcases the talents of area residents as they enter items for judging ranging from pies to quilts.

Needlework, Flowers, Baking, Canning, Vegetables, Arts & Crafts, and Photography are some of the departments featured at the Fair, which will run from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.  Exhibits as well as contest entries and winners will be on display throughout the day, including an exhibit from the Meriden Humane Society.  Admission to the Fair is free.

Meriden Grange Fair Co-Chairmen Robert Charbonneau and Michael Relyea invite the community to not only attend, but proudly exhibit their accomplishments.  "It’s a chance for everyone in Meriden to show their talents: a green thumb, an eye for photography, or a knack for baking at our yearly Fair," Charbonneau said.

Entries will be accepted from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Friday, September 10 and are open to Grange members and Non-Grange members alike. Entries for the Adult Baking Contest, Junior Baking Contest and the Quilt Contest which are sponsored by the Association of Connecticut Fairs will also be accepted.

"In the past year, Meriden Grange has been helping out the Meriden Humane Society – representatives will be there with a booth.  Other booths are planned as well," said Charbonneau. 

One of the highlights of the Fair is the Roast Pork Dinner.  The dinner will be served from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and offers Mashed Potatoes, Gravy, Applesauce, Cindy’s famous Cole Slaw, Vegetables, Bread with Butter, Dessert, and a Beverage. Take-outs will be available.  For reservations please call (203) 237-4617. Organizers stress that the dinner often sells out quickly, so reservations as strongly recommended.  Dinner reservations are asked to be made prior to September 9th, 2010. 

Other Fair highlights include a vegetable and flower auction at 6:30 PM. Entries may be picked up at 7:00 PM on September 11.

Meriden Grange is celebrating its 125th Anniversary throughout 2010.  The organization was formed March 27, 1885, with 32 charter members.  Today, the Grange is active in its community, holding numerous programs and dinners throughout the year and raising money for local organizations like the Meriden Humane Society, as well as hosting their popular annual fair.

More information on the Meriden Grange Fair is located at http://ctstategrange.org/subgrangepage.asp?GrangeID=192 including a PDF downloadable file of the Meriden Grange Fair Premium Book.