UNITY — With the pandemic forcing the cancellation of the popular Common Ground Country Fair for a second year, community members started looking for other ways to support farmers and businesses that normally benefit from the crowds that turn out for the fair.
“We definitely miss the fair, but there is more to see in Unity,” said Corry Pratt, co-owner of Northern Solstice Alpaca Farm.
The fair was to be held this weekend but in its place will be a “passport tour” Saturday. Participants can get a card at any one of the six places that are participating in the event and if they get their passport stamped by at least four of the six stops then they will be entered into a raffle for a gift basket at the end of the day.
Pratt said Northern Solstice Alpaca Farm will be open rain or shine from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. showing off 41 alpacas, giving free tours, hosting vendors and selling alpaca clothing and gifts from their gift shop. There will be a special sale on farm products. Items are also available for purchase on its website.
Pratt, who co-owns the farm with her spouse, Robin Pratt, said she’s excited for people to see the area.
Starting at 9 a.m., the Maine TradeHers Market will have farm and artisan vendors. The store hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Also from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Unity Pond Pottery will be offering 20% off in-stock items along with studio tours.
From 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., Stone Tree Farm & Cidery will be open with a performance by Ezra Rugg from 1 to 3 p.m.
The Belfast and Moosehead Lake Railroad will be providing different themed train rides at 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. One of the businesses at the train depot is Holler Soap, whose owner, Kris West, is one of the organizers of the day’s events.
The final stop on the tour is in Pittsfield at Outland Farm Brewery, where the raffle will take place at 8 p.m. The winner does not need to be present for the drawing. People are encouraged to join in a locally sourced harvest dinner at the brewery.
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