The fair, which has a 178-year history, was not held last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but kicked off this week without a hitch. The week-long event offers a variety of entertainment, food, animal exhibits, a petting zoo and more.

Cattaraugus County sheriff’s deputy David Schuman said there is something for everyone to enjoy at the fair. He has been visiting since he was a young child and has patrolled the fair for the last 30 years.

“The COVID-19 epidemic shut down the fair last year, and I think a lot of people are just excited to get out and have some fun,” he said. “The fair officials try hard to make this a family-friendly event, and there is a lot to do and see here. There’s a lot of good food, the kids enjoy the rides, and there is grandstand entertainment.”

Schuman highlighted the remaining concerts and events that are slated for this week, including monster truck rallies today at 1 p.m. and Saturday at 7:30 p.m.,and a big rig truck pull on Saturday at 6:30 p.m. The daily schedule includes performances by Sea Lion Splash, The Dynamo Dogs, a wood carving display, magic shows by Lance Gifford, and a lumberjack show.

Photos by Katrina Fuller There’s been plenty to see and do at this year’s Cattaraugus County Fair, which is celebrating its 178th year. “It’s very important to get everyone out and about to be able to see the sights and have some family fun,” said Kate O’Stricker, county Department of Economic Development, Planning and Tourism Development specialist.

For the Sheriff’s Office and other safety personnel on site, Schuman said the priority is the safety of patrons, vendors and staff.

“All of us here at the Sheriff’s Office, Emergency Services, and the Fire Services do our best to make sure that this is a safe event for everybody,” he said. “It’s a team effort to pull things off and make sure that everyone has a good time, everyone gets to go home safely, and have good memories of the fair.”

As for the turnout, Schuman said the crowds have been robust in number — mainly due to all the attractions the fair provides.

“Monday night was one of the best nights I can remember — the demolition derbies brought in a very, very large crowd,” he said.

County officials also have a presence on the fair grounds, hosting a booth with a prize wheel and information on tourism and attractions in Cattaraugus County. Kate O’Stricker, county Department of Economic Development, Planning and Tourism Development specialist, said the fair has been very successful so far. “It’s been very busy from what I’ve heard from our other employees over the last couple of days,” she said. “Today, it has been packed.”

Photos by Katrina Fuller There’s been plenty to see and do at this year’s Cattaraugus County Fair, which is celebrating its 178th year. “It’s very important to get everyone out and about to be able to see the sights and have some family fun,” said Kate O’Stricker, county Department of Economic Development, Planning and Tourism Development specialist.

O’Stricker said the sea lion attraction is her favorite event of the fair and has been drawing a lot of attention from adults and children alike.

“Come out — it’s supposed to be beautiful this week,” she said. “It’s very important to get everyone out and about to be able to see the sights and have some family fun.”

The Cattaraugus County Fair opens at 8 a.m. daily, with rides opening at 1 p.m. each day. The last day of the fair is Saturday. General admission is $12 per person, but children under the age of two are free. The fairgrounds are located at 501 Erie St. in Little Valley. For more information on the fair, visit cattarauguscofair.com or call 938-9146.