Even with all that rural communities have to offer, there will always be some who complain that small towns like those found in Sampson County “never have anything to do.”
Well, you can’t make that excuse this weekend, because Clinton is hosting its annual Square Fair, and organizers promise it will be the biggest and best yet.
Square Fair has been a downtown Clinton tradition for many years, drawing not only city residents, but folks from all over the county and the region. Organizer Tyler Wise told us, “It’s not just a Clinton thing, it’s Sampson County’s day.” We couldn’t agree more.
From its food vendors to artisans selling arts and crafts, the barbecue cookoff competition to the live musical entertainment, Square Fair has something for everyone, no matter where you’re from. Attendees can expect a car show and educational exhibits as well. Local organizations, including civic clubs and advocacy groups, will also be present with information. Not to mention, downtown shops will be open with some offering special promotions for the occasion. Is there a better way to spend a fall Saturday than being outside, supporting your community, and seeing your friends and neighbors to boot?
Square Fair is more than just a rite of fall, however. In this time of so much division and uncertainty, it’s an escape to the simpler things in life. Celebrating Sampson County for all that it is — an agricultural community with plenty of good eats, full of talented, caring people who often work together to make their worlds a better place. We have town boards, school boards and county commisisoners that don’t bicker or name-call each other, don’t deliver divisive rhetoric and, despite whatever their political affiliations may be, resolve to come together for the betterment of the county. It’s refreshing when you look at politics on the state and, particularly, national level to have elected officials whose purpose is to promote their people, not just their party.
Even with municipal elections coming up, don’t expect any mud slinging from candidates shouting at festival-goers from their tents lining the downtown streets. We’re sure they may be out there stumping for votes, but in all likelihood, they’ll be telling you why you should vote for them, not tearing down their opponent. (Don’t prove us wrong now, candidates!)
That’s the beauty of a small town festival like Square Fair. There’ll be food, fun, lively conversations, activities, games, music — all to celebrate this wonderful place we live and work.
So whether you live in the thick of Clinton’s main drag or in the rural landscapes of Sampson’s many fields and farms, Square Fair is for you.
We hope to see you there!