Every Memorial Day weekend, the small town of Bernardston, Massachusetts comes alive with the chug of vintage engines, the buzz of bargain hunters, and the smell of fresh pies and sizzling burgers. It’s all part of the Annual Gas Engine Show, Flea Market, and Craft Fair—a cherished local tradition and one of the four major fundraisers for the United Church of Bernardston, accounting for a full one-fifth of its annual budget.
What began 48 years ago as a humble flea market—thanks to founder Russ Deane—has grown into a massive, three-day community celebration that now sprawls across three acres, hosts over 100 vendors, and draws 6,000 to 8,000 visitors, weather permitting. With the help of hundreds of dedicated volunteers, this event has become as much an act of community spirit as it is a fundraiser.
The addition of gas engine exhibits by Bud Streeter helped shape the event into its modern form, attracting enthusiasts of “putt-putts” and “one-lungers” from near and far. These antique engines are rare and fascinating, offering both nostalgia and education for attendees young and old.
Over the years, the event has expanded well beyond its mechanical roots. Today, there are 25 divisions to explore, including:
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A Craft Fair featuring local artisans
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A robust Flea Market full of vintage finds and unique treasures
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A Youth Garden Tractor Pull
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The beloved Tractor Parade (Saturday and Sunday)
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Multiple food booths with everything from breakfast fare to baked potatoes and ice cream
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A traditional Ham & Bean Supper on Saturday night
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A lively auction Friday evening (donations welcome by 5 p.m.)
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A massive raffle drawing on Sunday afternoon
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An on-site Church Service under the Big Top on Sunday morning
Camping is permitted at Pratt Field, and attendees are advised to dress for the weather—rain or shine, the show goes on.
A Community in Motion
According to logistics chair Bob Allen, it takes at least 240 volunteer shifts to bring the event to life. It’s a labor of love that unites the town, fosters connections, and serves as one of the church’s biggest community outreach efforts.
Save the Dates!
Pratt Field, Bernardston, MA
May 24–26, 2025
Rain or Shine
Event Schedule Highlights:
Friday, May 24
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11:30 AM: Food booths open, vendor setup begins
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6:00 PM: Auction under the Big Top
Saturday, May 25
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6:00 AM: Vendor setup
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8:00 AM: Gas Engine Show, Flea Market & Craft Fair begin
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9:30 AM: Breakfast served
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10:00 AM–2:00 PM: Youth Garden Tractor Pull
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2:00 PM: Tractor Parade
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5:00–6:00 PM: Ham & Bean Supper
Sunday, May 26
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6:00–9:30 AM: Breakfast
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8:00 AM: Church Service under the Big Top
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9:00 AM: Market and shows reopen
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11:00 AM: Tractor Parade
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1:00 PM: Raffle Drawings
For more updates, follow the event on Facebook: Bernardston Gas Engine Show
Whether you come for the engines, the crafts, the food, or the fellowship, the 49th Annual Gas Engine Show is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of tradition, community, and good old-fashioned fun. See you there!
Photo Credit: Bernardston Gas Engine Show & RaRe Re-Creations
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