Seniors Day brings smiles and fond memories of the Champlain Valley Fair

ESSEX JUNCTION, Vermont (WCAX) – Vermont seniors were the main attraction at the Champlain Valley Fair in Essex Junction on Tuesday. Senior Day offers discounted tickets to those 55 and older. And everyone was excited as they shared stories of their fond memories of the fair from decades past.

“Enjoy the good company, the people and the food,” said Ron Bissonnette of Milton.

“People watching. I like to walk around the fair and look at all the rides. I don’t go with them anymore. Play some games, look at all the animals and exhibits,” said Shirley Sweet of South Burlington.

Senior Day at the Champlain Valley Fair is the perfect opportunity for older community members to make the most of the “10 Best Days of Summer.”

Age Well hosted a celebration for over 350 seniors on Tuesday to honor our elders.

“An opportunity to get together with other people my age, eat and listen to good music,” said Alice Daley from Essex.

“It gets them connected. They get to sit at new tables, meet new people, and socialize in a different way, in a different environment that stimulates so many different things. We’re excited,” said Kerry Batres of Age Well Chittenden County.

Seniors from across the region strolled up and down the fair’s winding paths, browsing the stalls, eating fairground food and enjoying the event that many have been attending since childhood.

“I love the lemonade, it’s nice and tart, and the frickles, and I always take home a candied apple,” Daley said.

For others, it is an opportunity to celebrate community.

“It’s great. I’ve lived here my whole life and it’s just a great place and a great city,” Bissonnette said.

Above all, it is a chance to get outside and stay active.

“Get out as much as you can, while you can. If you stay home and hibernate, you’ll get stiff and won’t get out,” Daley said.

“You have to keep moving. Sitting on the couch at home all day doesn’t last long,” said Bissonnette.

For the foodie seniors at the fair, Creemees were the most popular treat, according to the people I spoke to.

It was heartwarming to see people of all ages enjoying life and the fair.

The fair runs until Sunday, September 1st. Click here for full details.

Stay tuned to WCAX in the coming days for our live coverage of everything the Champlain Valley Fair has to offer.

Visit the WCAX team at the fair! You will find us near the entrance to the grandstand.

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