OXFORD – Senior Citizen Day at the Oxford County Fair included dancing, hurling skillets and viewing exhibits.

Hundreds of seniors strolled through the fair grounds in the afternoon, taking in the bright autumn sunlight as they viewed the livestock or had lunch at a picnic table. Those wanting to escape the heat played beano or toured the exposition halls.

The Parisians Orchestra provided music throughout the afternoon. Many couples took to the dance floor for old favorites such as “Blue Suede Shoes” and “Let Me Call You Sweetheart.”

The highlight of the day for many was the Senior Frying Pan Throw. More than 15 men and women over 65 signed up to see how far they could toss a cast iron frying pan. As contestants hefted the pan, onlookers shouted out encouragement.

Alice Larsen, 78, of Casco Village Assisted Living said she was glad to see the return of an old county fair favorite.

“I used to do this a long time ago,” she said. “I didn’t think they’d ever bring it back.”

The longest throw was by Joe Faneli of North Falmouth, Mass., who managed 48 feet, 2 inches. Faneli’s wife, Ginny, placed second in the women’s competition.

Winners were awarded prizes of $25, $15, and $10.

Later in the afternoon, the focus was on younger competitors as the first pig scramble of the fair began. Twelve children and 10 pigs scrambled as 200 onlookers cheered. When the dust settled, 10 children were holding pigs, some in burlap sacks, most not.

The children, ages 8 or 9, had the option of taking their pig home or selling it back to a farmer. Most opted to keep their prizes, leaving the mother of one new pig owner to ask if they were supposed to take in home in their van.

Children 6 and 7 years old who would like a pig may sign up for a chance at 5 p.m. Friday.

Copy the Story Link