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DUNKIRK – The Chautauqua County Fair opened with a ceremonial bang for the first time since 2019, when officials fired off an antique cannon kicking off this week’s festivities.
This is the 138th presentation of the Chautauqua County fair. The fair was only shut down two times in history, the first during WWII and the second the COVID-19 pandemic.
Back this year include all of the fair favorites, from 4-H animal presentations, to various shows, performances, and food, organizers say there is something for everyone.
While many other area fairs have struggled to book ride companies, those on the Fair Board are happy to report carnival rides will be operational along the midway this year too.
However, Fair Board President Dave Wilson tells us it has been difficult to hire help to put the fair on.
“Actually, it’s been pretty crazy,” said Wilson. “As everybody knowns in today’s world help is the biggest thing trying to find, I’ve been here everyday, we’ve had many people pitch in, we’ve worked day and night and have everything ready.”
“It’s hard to imagine, not being here for a couple years, things you’ve taken for granted, you know, the weeds have grown up, there is a lot of maintenance to be done.”
The fair continues through the weekend. General admission at the gate is $15 and $9 for seniors. Tickets for other aspects of the fair, like the Demolition Derby and Tractor Pull, must be purchased separately.
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