Traditional fun at annual Grange fair

WINCHESTER CENTER — The Winchester Grange No. 74 held its annual fair and flea market on Saturday, Aug. 9, at the Grange Hall. The event was free and open to the public.Todd Gelineau, who has been president of the Winchester Grange for the past 17 years, said the day’s event was divided into three general areas.“We have the judging of fruits, vegetables, baked goods and flowers up in the main hall,” Gelineau said. “We also have our flea market on the town Green, and outside the hall we have kid’s games and food. There is a little bit for everybody.” Entries for the agricultural fair we accepted up until 11 a.m., where they were then judged in adult and junior divisions. In addition to the judging, a used book sale was held on the lower floor of the Grange Hall.Outside the building, vendor Café 74 served grilled hot dogs and sandwiches to hungry patrons, and ice cream was available indoors.The event also included a children’s area, featuring games such as ring-toss, fishing and bean-bag tossing, as well as prizes. Maggie Gillotte of Winchester Center watched with delight as her younger sister Chelsea played several games. “The Grange is great because everyone in town gets to enjoy it whether they are members or not,” Gillotte said.Across from the Grange Hall, the town Green held 10 different vendors for the flea market. Vendors included the Winchester Center Historical Society’s raffle tent, the Litchfield County 4H Club’s rabbit and small animal tent and several other independent vendors selling goods.“Some years the Green is totally full of vendors and others not so much, but it’s been quite busy today,” Gellineau said. “To me, the fair is all about tradition. There is nothing that is brand new here. We like to bring the old favorites back every year.”The Winchester Grange is located at 100 Newfield Road in Winchester Center.