Our area’s showcase of talent, agriculture and entertainment is in full swing at the Chautauqua County Fair. With the cannon blast on Tuesday, the week-long event kicked off.

One of the highlights this year, as has been noted by our outdoors columnist Forrest Fisher, was the new Conservation Building at the county fair. “It is filled with animals from North America, Africa, and it’s going to be a conservation education center,” explained Linda Lamphere, county fair president.

Farming also plays a large role in the event. 4-H members can be found showing animals in one of four locations. The places to look for shows are the Main Show Arena next to the Exhibit Hall, the Small Animal Show Arena next to the Goat Barn, the Rabbit and Poultry Barn, and the Horse Show Arena.

In terms of grandstand events, today will be the return of the Figure 8 racing. Thursday’s show will be the return of the tractor pull. This is done by the Empire State Truck & Tractor Pull, a pro pulling sanctioned league. Friday night will be the “Beat the Beast bull riding.” Saturday night will be Monster trucks with Krazy Train and Plane Krazy.

Sunday’s smashing conclusion, as usual, is the demolition derby that always draws plenty of crashes and crowds. This week’s event is one more way to enjoy this area’s summer.