WOODSTOCK — The 163rd annual Woodstock Fair is receiving a facelift.
The Woodstock Agricultural Society agreed to move the Main Stage to the site on the grounds that has been the location of the Fiesta Shows’ Kiddieland rides for the past several years.
“I’m pleased that the board of directors of the Woodstock Fair is in favor of bringing noticeable changes to the fairgrounds without changing the heart of the long-time Agricultural fair.  The barns, animals, exhibits and the majority of the carnival rides will stay in their long-time spots and yet we have succeeded in changing some of the feel for those who have been attending for years”, said Society president Jeff Sandness.
“This will allow for more people to view the shows on the stage. It will also allow a different variety of entertainment to be presented in the Main Stage area as it has much more space to be utilized,” said Woodstock Fair general manager and entertainment director Marc Allard.
The move will also bring much more to the center portion of the Fairgrounds which had been occupied by tour buses and accommodation for those performing on the Main Stage.
The former Main Stage area will now be designated Center Stage, sponsored by Jewett City Savings Bank, and will feature local and regional bands, some long-time Woodstock Fair staples such as the East Woodstock Cornet Band and the Old Time Fiddlers Club of Rhode Island, and several variety acts.
Sept. 2, Center Stage will host a brand-new attraction as the Woodstock Fair will present its first Championship Cornhole Tournament with a $3,000 first-place prize to the winning two-person team.
The Fiesta Shows’ Kiddieland will be moved to the center of the Fairgrounds. The fair will now have additional attractions in the front of the grounds adjacent to the service gate including tethered balloon rides during the fair, weather permitting.
The former South Stage will now become the Fabulous Family Fun area with games and activities for all ages.

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