Local residents can learn about the history of the Chautauqua County Fair in a lecture at the Fredonia Opera House. The program, which is part of its 2026 fall "Here & There -- Chautauqua County History, Travelers and Memories" series, is scheduled for Thursday, September 10th at 7:00 PM. Admission is free, with donations gratefully accepted.
While the first recorded countywide fair was held in 1821, such events were held at irregular intervals until the 20th century. Beginning in 1917, the fair has been held every year except the three years of World War II, during which the grounds and buildings were used by the U.S. government to house prisoners of war; and two years (2020 and 2021) during the global COVID-19 pandemic. The annual event has grown over the decades into the summer event that many look forward to today. This summer marked the 143rd edition of the fair.
Dave Wilson and representatives of the Chautauqua County Agricultural and Fair Association will be there to share the history of the Chautauqua County Fairgrounds in Dunkirk.
