NORWICH – A lot has changed in 160 years. But in that time, the heart and soul of the Chenango County Fair has always been there, fair board President Mary Weidman says.

“The times have changed, but the concept of the fair is the same as it’s always been,” she said. “It gives local people a chance to show-off their best and it gives our county a place to come together. That’s what it has always been about.”

The fair opened this morning at 9 and runs until Sunday night. Admission today is free. The mid-way rides open at 4 p.m., followed by the Firemen’s and 4-H parades starting at 6:30. A special musical performance by 1960s holdovers “Commander Cody and his Lost Planet Airmen” will begin when the parades end.

Norwich Town Supervisor Dave Law says there’s something a little magical about seeing so many smiling faces this week.

“My favorite part is seeing the kids have a great time,” said Norwich town Supervisor Dave Law. “Bringing kids and their families happiness, that’s the key.”

The fair will open at 9 a.m. daily and close between 10 p.m. and 1 a.m., depending on each night’s activities. Rides will open at noon each day. Week-long events include the Coleman Brothers Carnival, Wambold’s Circus, the free Entertainment Tent, Conservation Display, Floral Hall demonstrations and agricultural exhibitions.