Eric Krusz, a blacksmith from Chicopee, causes sparks to fly from a hot piece of iron as he forms an ornamental iron sculpture at the 31st Annual Granville Harvest Fair yesterday. (Photo by chief photographer Frederick Gore)
GRANVILLE – With a crisp chill in the air and the sun peeking through the clouds, those enjoying the Columbus Day holiday have one last opportunity to visit the Granville Harvest Fair today beginning at 10 a.m.
The 31st annual event was visited by crowds Saturday and Sunday who enjoyed such fare as the Granville Federated Church’s Polish Plate, the Granville Fire department’s meatball and sausage grinders, and the Granville Police Department’s grilled burgers. There were pulled pork sandwiches, fried dough, and autumn favorites such as apples and, of course, Granville cheese at the Granville Country Store.
Most events this year took place on or around the green. Crafters and other vendors set up around the center of town, allowing patrons to meander from booth to booth and take a short walk to the Noble and Cooley Center for Historic Preservation.
The fair continues today, with parking at the Village School, church and Noble and Cooley. A shuttle bus is provided.
This year, to try to capitalize on visitors to the fair who drive through Southwick, the first ever Southwick Daze was organized by the economic Development Commission (EDC). EDC Director Michael McMahon said the event, which included vendor pace at the Southwick Inn, was not as well attended by businesses as planned.
“We had some participation, but not as much as we’d hoped,” he said.
“With the weather forecast calling for rain Saturday and suggesting a washout Monday, I think people were afraid to come out,” said McMahon.
Whether or not there is a second Southwick Daze will be discussed at the next EDC meeting. McMahon said the event could be combined with other town-wide events and could be impacted by Wednesday night’s Town Meeting vote.
“If the town accepts Whalley Park, we have had some movement by businesses to combine the BBQ event, Fireman’s carnival and fireworks and have it at Whalley Park,” said McMahon. “So that vote could directly impact plans for next year.”
McMahon said some businesses in town did advertise Southwick Daze and Columbus Day sales to coincide with the event.
