BLANDFORD-Volunteering at the Blandford Fair has been a family tradition for many in town and the surrounding communities – including Christine and Michelle Tighe of East Otis.
The mother and daughter team spoke recently with The Westfield News about the importance of volunteering to assist organizations that depend on volunteers for its survival.
Michelle Tighe and Christine Tighe are seen during last year’s Blandford Fair when the art show celebrated its 50th year. (Submitted photo)
“I have been volunteering at the Blandford Fair on and off for most of my life,” said Michelle Tighe, who has the role of social media supervisor.
Tighe noted that for the past six years she has been volunteering at the art barn.
“I like watching the expressions of people when art work catches their eye and it speaks to them,” she added.
Christine Tighe, who has volunteered for 28 years at the fair and is entering her fourth year as supervisor of the art barn and art show, echoed those sentiments.
“I like seeing people’s faces when they see art work that they don’t expect,” she said.
The two women are encouraging local residents to consider volunteering during the fair – now in its 151st year – which is scheduled Aug. 31-Sept. 3.
“I enjoy helping because it is a more hands-on approach to volunteering,” said Christine Tighe.
Michelle Tighe concurred.
“We have teens to persons in their 70’s volunteering,” she said, noting that currently there are still positions available as youth and adult hall monitors, persons greeting patrons at the art barn, as well as working at the gate and handling ticket sales.
“We can work around anyone’s schedule,” she said, noting that shifts typically last three hours. “Also, help is greatly appreciated if some would like to help with grounds work and/or help setting up.”
With all of the rain this summer, ground crews have been inundated with mowing in particular, however, when the gates open at 3 p.m. on Aug. 31, fairgoers will once again be able to walk the grounds and take in all of the sights of a traditional hometown fair.
“I would encourage families to visit the Blandford Fair because there is something for everyone to enjoy and experience,” said Michelle Tighe.
Since both women are passionate about helping artists, they are also excited about the restoration of the art barn that is planned after the fair closes.
“We are fundraising online to help pay for the restoration which includes a foundation, siding and strengthening of the building,” said Christine Tighe.
From the midway, barnyard petting zoo and horse shows, to the multitude of vendors, the King Arthur Cake Contest, and musical acts, there are innumerable amusements to keep fairgoers entertained during their visit.
For many fairgoers, the homestyle dinners are always at the top of one’s list to enjoy – especially since a slice of homemade pie is served for dessert. This year, workers will be serving a meatloaf dinner on Friday from 5 to 7 p.m., a baked ham and beans meal on Saturday from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., and a barbecued chicken dinner from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Sunday. A Yankee pot roast dinner closes out the fair on Monday from noon to 2:30 p.m.
“It’s a fair where children can win prizes, see animals close up, and be entertained,” said Christine Tighe.
“The Blandford Fair is impressive, fun and affordable,” added Michelle Tighe, noting that a lot of “little things” on the schedule make the fair unique.
For a complete schedule of events or to send a message about volunteering, visit www.blandfordfair.com or check out the fair’s Facebook page. Also, general inquiries can be left with fair secretary Brenda Blood at (413) 848-2888.
The Blandford Fair is a nonprofit agricultural organization. Fair funding is provided, in part, by the Massachusetts Council and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Department of Agriculture. 
Fair hours are Aug. 31, 3 to 9 p.m.; Sept. 1, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sept. 2, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sept. 3, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Entry fee is $5 for seniors; over age 12, $10; ages six to 12, $5, and under six, admitted free. A parking fee of $5 is also observed.
