Old Fashioned
Country Fair 
URWA’s fair traditionally takes
place each year at the Association’s Fairview Farm on a Sunday
in October. Sometime in the mid 1980’s it began as “Family
Day”, an event modeled after a British, “Field Sports Day”.
There were horses, carriages, demonstrations of falconry, sheepherding,
oxen pulls, thatching, etc. Over the years the event has grown in terms
of attendance and activities. Notices and press releases go out in
September inviting the public to enjoy a
fun day of activities and experiences unique
to country living.
For children, there are hayrides, a covered wagon pulled by Belgium horses, pumpkins to paint, scarecrows to dress, face painting, candle making, kayaking, farm animals to pet, and pony rides. Demonstrations for all ages include, sheep herding, wool spinning, weaving, pumpkin carving, woodworking and more. You will see oxen, an Herbalist, Silhouette Cutter, Basket Weaver and Pig Races!
A country lunch is available along with ice cream and baked goods. There is an “Attic Treasures” for second-hand bargains and a Silent Auction that each year features a kayak, fishing and golf outings, paintings, services by local professionals, gift certificates from local restaurants and treasures for all ages. Boutiques offer pottery, honey, homemade scones, lanterns, bird feeders & more. There is a 50/50 Raffle to benefit URWA.
The admittance fee is $10 per
carload. All proceeds from the event support URWA’s conservation
efforts throughout the region. Come join us every year at Fairview
Farm, 2121 Larger Cross Road, Bedminster from 11:30 – 4:30
on a Sunday in October – rain or shine!
Bird-a-thon
URWA’s Bird-a-thon is a fundraising
event that has taken place each year since 1991 on a Saturday in May.
A team of 3-4 avid birders combs the state from dawn till dusk identifying
as many species of birds they can find. Before the event, the Association
gathers pledges from 20 cents to $5.00 per bird species identified.
In the past the team has tallied anywhere from 125 – 160 birds.
This is an important event because it focuses attention on the habitat
needs of migrating birds and raises funds to support URWA’s work
to protect the critical habitat that is so important to the survival
of our fine-feathered friends.
Dinner and Barn
Dance – Fundraising Events
Every other year, URWA holds a formal dinner dance
to raise funds to support the Association’s general operating budget.
Traditionally the event takes place in April or May on the odd year.
URWA’s dinner dances are known for their extraordinary decorations
and environmental themes: The Woodlands Ball 1995, The Frog Town Ball
1997, The Chrysalis Ball 1999, The Willow Dance 2001, The Aqua Ball 2003
and this year, H2O at the Hamilton Farm Golf Club in Gladstone, NJ. The
event includes a cocktail hour, four course dinner, dancing to a live
band, auctions, a silent auction and raffle. On the even years there
is a less formal “Barn
Dance” that
has been held in June at the Upton Pyne Barns in Bernardsville. This
buffet
picnic-style
dinner and lively
dance raises important funds to boost the general budget. Watch for calendar
listings in late winter.