“We’re looking forward to a very successful fair,” said Linda Lanphere, President of the Chautauqua County Fair Board.

This year’s fair features even more amusement rides than last year, as Amusements of America is expanding its offerings in its second year with the fair.

“They certainly have done a great job of filling up our midway this year,” Lanphere said.

Lanphere welcomed dignitaries Tuesday morning surrounding a podium at the fairgrounds, with 4-H students behind them, as the festivities began. In attendance were state Sen. George Borrello, County Executive P.J. Wendel, Fredonia Mayor Mike Ferguson, Pomfret Town Supervisor Dan Pacos, Dunkirk Town Supervisor Priscilla Penfold and her husband, Town Justice Christopher Penfold, along with several members of the Dunkirk Town Board. Representatives on behalf of Congressman Nick Langworthy, Assemblyman Andrew Molitor, and Gov. Kathy Hochul were also in attendance.

Two children watch as Sen. George Borrello feeds milk to a young goat at the Chautauqua County Fair on Tuesday. Photo by Braden Carmen

Certificates of recognition and proclamations were read on behalf of Langworthy, Molitor, and Hochul. Ferguson read a proclamation that called the fair “a cherished tradition for over 140 years.” Ferguson called the fair a “vital platform” for the region that highlights agriculture, community, and entertainment. He credited the fair for “creating memorable experiences for young and old, enriching the cultural fabric of our great community.”

Ferguson then lit the fuse to fire the cannon. Following the ceremony, 4-H students took the dignitaries on a tour of the facilities. First, the group gathered for the dedication of the Conservation Education Center in honor of Henry J. Leworthy and his family. Dozens of animals were mounted to the walls of the building and a ribbon was cut to commemorate the occasion.

Lanphere said of the 4-H students, “These kids are a mine of information. They will give you whatever you want to know, and if they don’t have the answer, they are going to find someone who does.”

From there, guests visited the many animal barns, from the dairy program, sheep, goats, pigs, cows, rabbits and poultry.

“We’re raising food to feed America here,” Lanphere said.

A cannon was fired Tuesday to signal the opening of the 144th annual Chautauqua County Fair. Photo by Braden Carmen

Significant improvements have also been made this year to the horse barn, while an emphasis has been made this year to make the animals more visible for guests to enjoy.

“Chautauqua County is a rural, agricultural county, but there are so many people that live here that don’t understand where their food comes from and how important agriculture is,” Borrello said.

On the tour, Borrello met with several 4-H students and asked questions about their experiences raising animals. Borrello said he is “very proud” to represent the area as a ranking member of the Senate Agriculture Committee.

Borrello highlighted the prevalence of family farms that have existed in the region for generations and the vital role they play in the area’s food security and local economy. Borrello said the farming industry is “under a tremendous amount of strain and pressure” because of policies at the state level and beyond.

“When I see 4-H kids, it reminds me that there is still a new generation of kids that want to do this. They are not just good at agriculture; they are good citizens; they are good speakers; they are good business people. That’s what it’s going to take to continue agriculture in New York State,” Borrello said. “That’s what we’re here to highlight.”

Pictured are banners from various 4-H clubs on display at the Chautauqua County Fair. Photo by Braden Carmen

Borrello even joined in by feeding a small goat. He called the experience “farmer fantasy camp.” After finishing with feeding the goat, Borrello joked, “If this whole senate thing doesn’t work out, I know I can do this.”

Demolition Derby events were held on Tuesday at 7 p.m. and on Sunday at 4 p.m.; Figure 8 Racing is Wednesday at 7 p.m.; Empire State Truck and Tractor Pull is Thursday at 7 p.m.; Beat the Beast Bull Riders perform on Friday at 7 p.m.; and Saturday at 7 p.m. features a Monster Truck show including Krazy Train and Plane Krazy.

Admission to the fair is $15, which includes general admission, rides, and grandstand events, excluding the demolition derby. Ages 3 and under are free, unless they go on rides or sit in the grandstand.

For more information, visit chautauquacofair.org.