West Islip Country Fair welcomes fall 🍂
West Islip Public Library hosts 48th annual country fair
By Christopher Eliopoulos
The West Islip Public Library held its 48th annual West Islip Country Fair to welcome the fall season on Sunday, September 21st. Surrounding the fairground’s perimeter, visitors could stop by information and history tents to learn helpful and interesting facts from experts, such as the Sagtikos Manor Society.
As fairgoers walked in, they were greeted by various food vendors in an enclosed gated area. Rows of tents lined the center of the fairgrounds, where merchants sold a variety of unique wares, including crafts, baked goods, and collectibles. For the entertainment portion of the fair, a bandstand featured musical acts from different musical genres. Acts included the West Islip Orchestra, The Smorgas Band, Sherry Palencia (Line Dancing), and Mountain Music.
In addition to the music, a magician performed tricks, and a clown made balloons. Fairgoers could also play classic carnival games and participate in Touch A Truck, where people had the chance to step inside fire engines.
In the center of the fairgrounds, a tent was set up for veterans who had served on nuclear submarines. A veteran wearing an older uniform sat next to a model of the pre-nuclear submarine, the USS Spadefish. “This submarine is a World War II model that we have over here. It’s 1/12th scale, and it was made by one of the guys who was actually on it during World War II. For me, when I joined in 1961, it was very enjoyable. I loved every minute. We had a good time. Submarine service was very good. A lot of memories, a lot of memories, and now, I’m in this submarine veteran’s group, which is very good too,” said military veteran Michael Johnson.
There was something for everyone who attended the 48th annual West Islip Country Fair. One fairgoer who wished to remain anonymous summed up the fair by saying, “I’m here because my fiancĂ©e likes craft fairs and picking books out. We live across the street. We got two books for my little nephew; yeah, we’re having a good time. The amount of people is definitely good for the community.”
