The 11th annual Chenango County Relay for Life kicks off tonight with live music, games, fun – and an important message. The event not only raises money and awareness for cancer, it also keeps participants entertained from 6 p.m. Friday night until 10 a.m. Saturday morning.

Relay for Life is a fund raising event to benefit the American Cancer Society. According to Denise Woods, Relay for Life event coordinator, as the largest, not-for-profit donor to cancer research, ACS uses the money raised during the relay to put money toward cancer research, patient and family programs, advocacy and health education. Woods explained that many types of cancer can be avoided by making small lifestyle changes. “Sixty percent of cancer cases can be prevented,” Woods said, explaining that by eliminating tobacco and adopting a healthy diet and nutrition regiment, those cases could be avoided.

The Relay for Life will begin on Friday at the Chenango County Fairgrounds. Leading up to the opening ceremonies, the Sons of Ireland will be performing an array of traditional Irish music, from 4 to 6 p.m. The relay will officially begin at 6 p.m. when the opening ceremonies are held.