NORWICH – Approximately 40,000 people are expected to visit the county fairgrounds throughout the week and weekend as the 163rd Chenango County Fair kicks off Tuesday. It’s one of the longest running annual events in the history of the county, according to Chenango County Agricultural Society President Mary Weidman.

A celebration of all things Chenango, Weidman said the event will feature its traditional blend of rides, entertainment, games, exhibits, vendors and more, and added fair officials have “tried out a couple of new initiatives this year,” including the sale of advance tickets.

Today will be fair-goers last chance to take advantage of the deal – $5 for advance grandstand admission and $4 for advance general admission tickets.

“With the economy the way it is, we thought we’d offer the advance ticket sales to allow people to get tickets and save some money,” stated Weidman. “This way they can enjoy something close to home that’s fun and affordable.”

Weidman reported that, on Tuesday, fair officials will once again offer visitors free admission to the fairgrounds, thanks to the Giant’s Warehouse, Smith Ford and NBT Bank, and events planned for the afternoon and evening include the New York State Sire Stakes Harness Race at 1 p.m. and a special Chenango County Blues Association Summer Concert Series performance by legendary guitarist Les Dudek at 8 p.m.