Readers of a certain generation remember traveling to New York City in 1964 and 1965 in order to see the World’s Fair in Flushing Meadows.

For those who missed the opportunity, or simply want to relive it, Newtown Historical Society, in conjunction with C.H. Booth Library, will offer a virtual trip on Monday, October 15, to The 1964-65 World’s Fair.  

Jason Scappaticci.will be the tour guide for the evening program, which will begin at 7:30 pm.

The years after WWII led to a spurt of World’s Fairs in an attempt to recover from the devastation and horrors of the war. Beginning with the first great worldwide industrial fair, London’s 1851 Crystal Palace, nations and businesses used the new vehicle for showing off the latest technology, products, and of course national culture. 

Every large manufacturer had to have its own pavilion, vying with each other for innovations that would attract a crowd, like the Magic Skyway of the Ford Pavilion during the event in New York. Nations not only showcased their products but also their identifying cultural characteristics including cuisine, all in the name of reaching the largest audience. No brunch today would be complete without a Belgian waffle stop, but the World’s Fair was the first place many Americans had the chance to try one.

Fairs don’t just happen, however. As befitting such a grand offering, much preparation was required before the public could experience the pleasures of a fair. Planning began years ahead, and construction — even though most of the buildings were intended to be temporary, exhibitors were given instructions on how to dismantle their displays and buildings at Fair’s end — was a massive undertaking. Mr Scappaticci will not only take guests through the Fair’s delights but will also show scenes of the preparation and the drama of keeping it all running. 

Jason Scappaticci is Director of New Students and First Year Programs at Manchester Community College. He has degrees in history and American Studies. He has traveled throughout the state offering programs to historical societies and civic groups, and has been published in Connecticut Explored magazine.

Refreshments will be served following his presentation.

Newtown Historical Society programs are free and open to the public.

For further information visit newtownhistory.org or facebook.com/newtownhistorical society or call 203-426-5937.