TOPSFIELD — Discounted Topsfield Fair tickets will go on sale Monday, starting the countdown toward a classic event with a new approach.
This year's fair, the 191st, replaces the Exhibitor's Handbook with a revamped Web site. New information on the site will include schedules for performers like LeAnn Rimes and Jeff Corwin, as well as education, contests and concessions. This year's new attractions also include a butter sculpture and high diving.
The ticket booth on Route 1 just beside the main gate will be open weekdays from Monday, Aug. 10, through Sept. 18, from at least 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Longer hours will be offered closer to the fair. Topsfield residents should arrive by Sept. 18 to get a complimentary packet that includes free admission, parking and two rides.
The discounted admission tickets will sell for $8 each, or $21 for a three-day entrance. Regular admission is $10 most weekdays or $12 weekends.
The fair itself will run from Oct. 2 to Oct. 12. Fair information is online at www.TopsfieldFair.org.
General Manager James O'Brien said putting exhibition and contest information online will be more environmentally friendly than printing handbooks.
The fair will print a small booklet afterward, however, to list winners.
"We want everyone to know that our competitions are open to everyone, whether they bake a cake, make homemade wine or beer, grow flowers and vegetables, or show their farm animals," he said.
"And we will list the winners who are so proud of their ribbons every year."
