The highlight of this past weekend for me was a visit to AlpacaFest West. The name says it all – loads of lovely alpacas of all colors and kinds, fiber on the hoof. And so gorgeous. Just look at that cutie little face . . . 
As much as I have read descriptions of the two types of alpaca – Suri and Huacaya, it took an up-close-and-personal look to get the idea across. This guy with the dreadlocks is a Suri – 
And these two lovelies are Huacayas. They're even fluffier than they look in the picture -- 
Although there were a dozen or so vendors selling fiber, yarn, garments, etc., the focus of the show was on the competition. The alpacas were judged in different classes based on age, gender, type, and probably some other stuff I've forgotten. Here's one lineup waiting for the judge to check them out -- 
It was fascinating to watch all the different alpacas parade past and to listen to the judge explain her reasons for ranking one higher than another. "Conformation" was important. And fleece, of course! And evidently the shape of the jaw was a factor as well.
Here's one happy winner in the "two year old males" category. I was rooting for him because of that stunning cinnamon color. -- 
And a special thanks to Ranch of the Oaks for posting a notice of this event on Ravelry. 
They had all sorts of lovely goodies. If you look closely, you will see a table piled up with yarn in the back of the booth. Not just alpaca either. And the ball bands were usually labeled with the name of the animal the fiber came from. I love that.
Altogether a perfect day.
9 comments:
Oh, that sounds like so much fun! And those alpacas are gorgeous -- look at those colors! :)
As animals, I am a total fan they are delightful. We have a wonderful alpaca ranch two miles from here. As fiber, I'm not so much. I like it in blend.
Just incredible animals , aren't they?! Did you buy any fiber to spin? I prefer the huacaya when it comes to fiber usage-to look at, they are both beauties!
I've been to a local alpaca festival, but didn't stay to see the judging. Now that you've described it, it sound interesting. I'll make sure I don't miss it next time.
It is a good thing I don't have the right kind of land for my own alpacas, because they are so cute. And I had no idea that a 2 year old alpaca would still be so small and cute.
I'll just console myself with alpaca yarn I guess!
Sue
I enjoy fiber fairs so much when the animals are there. Your pictures are great (but where are the shots of your purchases?)
Lucky you, all those Alpacas in one area. You did bring some home with you, didn't you?
So cute!
I tried to visit an Alpaca farm this past summer on a road trip that I found online, but when we got to the farm it was only open on Saturdays :(
I'm definitely going to have to find one. They're such cute critters.
Even the birds love, "In the Treetop". It's your best painting -- so real!!!
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