NORWICH – Celebrating its 164th anniversary, there’s only one question to ask oneself when Tuesday rolls around – what’s not to love when it comes to the Chenango County Fair?
Thousands are expected to make their way down to the fairgrounds throughout the week and weekend, according to Agricultural Society President Mary Weidman, in a celebration of all things Chenango County.
The fair will feature its traditional blend of rides and games of chance – provided by the Coleman Brothers Carnival – as well as a wide variety of entertainment, exhibits, vendors and more, including a few new additions that may surprise some people. And while the gates officially open Tuesday afternoon for the New York State Sire Stakes Harness Racing event at 1 p.m., for many people, it’s the annual 4-H and Firemen’s Parade that really kicks off the fair year after year, said Weidman.
The parade will begin at 7 p.m. and feature a number of area veterans organizations, as well as various parade bands, fire departments and local motorcycle groups. The Norwich American Legion Riders will once again lead the parade, according to commander Hank Burnor, who said it’s “important to keep this going as a tradition and show support for our veterans, and the community.”
Rides, on Tuesday, will open at 4 p.m.
“We’ve worked hard to put together a good show this year with some new attractions, as well as those that are so popular every year,” Weidman added.
Today marks fair-goers’ last chance to pick up their advance general admission tickets at a discounted price, as well, available for $4 ($5 for grandstand tickets) at the main gate and Price Chopper. The $5 grandstand ticket offer does not include Wednesday or Friday’s main event, however, reported Weidman. And thanks to NBT Bank, there is no admission to the fairgrounds on Tuesday, including the Chenango Blues Association’s final Summer Concert Series performance, featuring the New Riders of the Purple Sage. In addition, fair memberships will be available throughout the week – $15 for adults and $12 for children ages 6 to 12 – which covers the cost of general admission over the course of the fair.
Parking, as usual, is free.
“The fair memberships are really a wonderful opportunity,” said Weidman. “Not only do you get daily admission into the fair, it gives people a chance to attend fair board meetings in the future if they choose. That way, they can have some say in the Chenango County Fair if they’d like.”
