NORWICH – There’s no mistaking the sights and sounds of the midway, the cheers from the grandstand, and the smell of fried dough when the Chenango County Fair gets underway.

Tuesday marks the start of the 167th Chenango County Fair. Each year, the fair draws nearly 50,000 visitors from across the county and beyond for what’s become the longest lasting summertime tradition in the area. With preparations for the kick-off of the fair almost complete, this year promises nothing less, said Agricultural Society President Mary Weidman.

“There’s a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes to get ready,” Weidman said. But the outcome is six days of family-friendly fun and entertainment. “We’re anticipating a really good fair. We’re just hoping the weather will be good too.”

Gates open Tuesday with the New York State Sire Stakes Harness Racing ushering in a week full of entertainment at 1 p.m. A total 84 harness racers galloped down the track last year. With as many as 18 heats scheduled this year, it’s going to be an exciting week, said Weidman.

“Tuesday will be a busy day because it's our free admission day, sponsored by NBT Bank and M&T Bank,” Weidman added. “There’s always a terrific turnout of people who want to see what’s new this year, and a big turnout of people who want to see the traditional things that they love.”

It’s also a day to recognize this year’s Mr. and Mrs. Chenango County Fair, Alyn and Shirley Proskine of Norwich, she added.

The annual Firemen’s Parade will be held Tuesday. Dozens of fire trucks and emergency vehicles will work their way down East Main Street before finishing at the fairgrounds, where the Chenango Blues Festival will host a free concert performed by the Bruce Beadle Band and the TC Horns.

“The free concert has always been a huge hit,” said Weidman. “The band we have this year is well known locally and they’re bringing in some great music to get things started.”