Farmers need the rain; so do all those who have wells or drink water. (That's all of us.) So wear your boots, bring an umbrella and enjoy a fair, festival or outing. Challenging weather thins out the crowd, a perfect opportunity to enjoy some space and good food while making memories. My own family attended a major fair in rainy weather – and it is one of the most memorable times ever.

Berlin Fair, Saturday, Oct. 1 and Sunday, Oct. 2, a community event that began in 1882 as a Harvest Festival. Pie-eating contests, frog jumping, large animal and crafts exhibits; live entertainment.

Frankie Avalon will perform in the grandstand on Wednesday, Oct. 5, 7 p.m. at the Topsfield Fair.

“America's oldest county fair” keeps going through Oct. 10, Topsfield, Mass. Entertainment, horse show, horse and oxen pulls, petting zoo. New England Giant Pumpkins on display. Farm museum, autumn flower show, midway. Admission, $9 to $25; parking, $10.

Harwinton Fair, to Sunday, Oct. 2. Pig races, antique tractor show, oxen draw, Civil War displays. Bluegrass music and a Country Store.

Agriculture and entertainment combine at any fair where competition to grow the best, the biggest or to show off skills honed all year. Don't let a little rain keep you away.

The Big E – on until Sunday, Oct. 2 – a showcase of each New England state and a wealth of traditions and entertainment, music, food. Acres to roam and so much to see and do. And a stalwart backbone of agriculture and livestock competitions in every arena. A bonus is the beautiful plantings that accent the grounds. For more information – follow this link.

“Agriculture is the cultivation of animals, plants and fungi for food, fiber, biofuel, medicinal plants and other products used to sustain and enhance human life. Agriculture was the key development in the rise of sedentary human civilization, whereby farming of domesticated species created food surpluses that nurtured the development of civilization. The study of agriculture is known as agricultural science. The history of agriculture dates back thousands of years, and its development has been driven and defined by greatly different climates, cultures, and technologies.” – Wikipedia

The annual Vermont Sheep and Wool Festival, Sunday, Oct. 2, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tunbridge Fairgrounds. More information at www.vtsheepandwoolfest.org.

Deerfield Fair, Deerfield, NH, ongoing to Sunday, Oct. 2. Traditional exhibits and competitions, good food. The horse shows at this fair showcase many breeds. Information and schedule linked to the horse and man image. Admission $10​; 12 and younger, free. All military get in free (active, reserves, and veterans with identification).

Housatonic Heritage Walks in Litchfield County through Oct. 2, weekends. Historians, naturalists, environmentalists will lead participants on explorations, Saturday, Oct. 1 and Sunday, Oct. 2. Free. Site-interpretive walks in various location, Berkshire County, Massachusetts; Litchfield County, Connecticut, offered in partnership with the National Park Service.

The heritage valley area exists to “illuminate the diverse, rich identity of the Upper Housatonic River Valley region and to preserve and promote its historical, cultural and natural resources. We support, stimulate and advance the region’s economic vitality and quality of life, looking towards a sustainable future for the benefit of residents and visitors. This National Heritage Area facilitates collaboration with regional organizations, working as a catalyst for regional thinking.”

The Upper Housatonic Valley National Heritage Area has a mission to “heighten the region’s knowledge of its heritage and promote public discourse and decisions through educational programs that are the envy of the world; make the region a premier destination for travelers and potential residents by engaging active participation in using and celebrating the heritage resources; integrate the celebration of regional historical, cultural and natural resources with regional economic development and planning; and be a high-performing and financially stable organization, working with other regional businesses, organizations and individuals.”

The Upper Housatonic Valley National Heritage Area was so designated by Congress in 2006 under Public Law 109-338 to “heighten appreciation of the region, preserve its natural and historical resources, and improve the quality of life and economy of the area.”

Pretty smart.

A national heritage area has a distinctive history and geography, nationally important resources, and a story of broad interest to tell. The U.S. Congress officially designates national heritage areas and funds them through the National Park Service budget. There are 49 designated heritage areas. Though the National Park Service provides technical expertise, the work and success of national heritage areas lies squarely with the citizens of the area. Heritage areas may be developed around a common theme or industry that influenced the culture and history of the region.

For more events after the weekend visit this link to the official page.