I went last year. It was my first Barter Fair in 24 years. At the Ferry County and North Port Fairs, in 1994, at least most people were local homesteaders and the entertainment was obviously there kids' bands. I miss that.
Last year, at Tonasket, my initial reaction was that I was a bewildering flea market for potheads. After I got settled in and slept, I felt better the next day, but still felt like there where a lot of people selling things.
There is some good stuff in terms of sculpture and music.
I found one farmer from the Methow valley. She said she and her husband had come because they had heard stories about the old days. They'd set up their farm stand, but I guess no one was buying local vegetables.
It really wasn't bad, I just packed a lot of old expectations. Don't do that.