Each year as the midway lights are shut down, the carnival rides are packed up, the horses stop pulling and the pigs stop racing, the Chester Fair Board of Directors receives accolades for a job well done. At the same time, it also receives suggestions on how to make the next year’s fair even better. One of those suggestions, after last year’s fair, was to find a way to provide more seating at the fair—thus the “Bucks for Benches” program was born.

Offering both businesses and individuals the opportunity to show their support for the Chester Fair, the Bucks for Benches programs is seeking donations of $350 for inscribed benches, which can recognize a business, family, or individual, and $250 for inscription-free benches.

“So far so good!” said Kim Price, the second vice president of the Chester Fair Board of Directors. “This program has taken off much faster than we thought it would, and we have already received tremendous support from the community.”

Price explained that the unofficial goal is to get donations of one dozen benches. These benches will be placed throughout the fairgrounds to afford additional seating for fair goers in every area.

The benches will be eight feet long, designed by a chiropractor to promote comfort and correct posture, and made out of long lasting cedar wood. They’re being made by Baldwin Furniture (a family-owned business out of Middletown). Price explained that orders for benches are being accepted until the end of July to afford enough time to get them built and inscribed, if need be, by the end of August, just in time for the annual fair.

“These benches are a great way for people and businesses to give to the town and be a part of the Chester Fair for years to come,” said Price.

This year the annual Chester Fair, which has been ongoing since 1877, will kick off on Friday, Aug. 28 at 6 p.m. and run through Sunday, Aug. 30. For more information about donating a commemorative bench, call Price at 203-464-6289.