If you haven’t yet been out to Field Days, head out there today to catch the final few days of this Addison County tradition. Events end Saturday, Aug. 2.

The fair draws more people than any other event in the county, and for good reason: farmers, sugarmakers, cooks, bakers and canning experts compete for a multitude of bragging rights; folks work with their powerful draft horses and oxen to pull incredible weights, while the tractor pull is an entertaining (and loud) event certain to impress. The Demolition Derby is just plain fun for everyone, and then there is all the other stuff: carnival rides, cotton candy, maple goodies, and hundreds of animals — dozens of varieties of fascinating chickens and cute, cuddly rabbits; pigs, cows, horses, goats and sheep to name the most popular.

Contestants with green thumbs vie for blue ribbons, and 4-H kids and young adults compete at a high level to show off their prize stock.

In the end, Field Days is a celebration of the farm traditions that have shaped the culture of Vermont, and of Addison County, for generations — and that’s something not to take for granted.

— Angelo Lynn