The original intent of the North Stonington Agricultural Fair was to bring together the region's community members who created an agricultural economy. The purpose of their gathering was not only to celebrate their professions and the traits of their culture, but also to improve upon their combined efforts by sharing knowledge, products and support with one another.

Today, in its 53rd year, the North Stonington Agricultural Fair is promoting those same ideals, preserving those traditions and adding to them. It all happens Thursday through Sunday at the fairgrounds on Wyassup Road in Stonington.

Keeping with the dramatic changes to the agricultural industry that half a century has afforded, the fair has evolved dramatically, too. Pie-eating, nail-driving, horseshoe-pitching, tractor-pulling, horse-pulling, baking, and livestock displays of all farming varieties still are at the heart of the fair's contesting spirit. Any modernizing that the fair has embraced comes from their inclusiveness — their photography contest, the beauty pageant, country and rock & roll musical acts, and carnival rides. All are added benefits to the festival's persisting original events.

North Stonington Agricultural Fair, 5-10 p.m. Thurs. and Fri., 8:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Sat., and 9 a.m.-6 p.m.Sun, Fairground, Wyassup Road, North Stonington; $9, free for kids under 12; (860) 535-3956.