THE BIG CHEESE, 2026: Highlights from opening day at the 205th annual Lewis County Fair

LOWVILLE- As tradition follows at the Lewis County Fair, a giant 20-pound hunk of sharp cheddar cheese was the prize item up for grabs.

With proceeds from the Cheese Auction going to benefit local youth agriculture throughout Lewis County, the BIG CHEESE went this year for a total north of $15,000.

The cheese was bid on by ‘Farmers and Friends.’

In other fair news, Robbie, Mazie and Chad Sullivan, of Constableville, NY, received Lewis County’s Young Farmer award for 2026. They currently milk 110 Holstein cows in a free-stall facility, with 35 livestock.

This year's Dairy Distinction Award was presented to Joe Shultz. The award recognizes those who promote a good dairy industry image.

This year’s Distinguished Farmer award was given to the Vanderveeken family. They operate the Hancor Farm in Castorland, NY.

Finally, Bruce and Kelly Rohr were awarded with the 2026 Agriculture Society Hall of Fame Award.

Among the several state politicians and local figures who attended opening day, we received word that Republican Congressional Candidate for NY-21 Anthony Constantino paid a visit to the fair and participated in the parade. 

We did not receive any word on whether or not his Democratic challenger, Blake Gendebien, attended or not, despite asking local officials.    

Despite concerns over threatening weather in the forecast, fair officials decided to green light the fair parade and it squeezed its way in just in time before a wave of rainfall.

Speaking of which, the fireworks were set off about an hour early amidst the uncertain weather that was approaching. 

Be sure to stop by our Moose and Blizzard booth for our live broadcasts all week long.  

Image by Brian Trainor: Lewis County Dairy Princess Kailyn Markham with the BIG CHEESE during the annual Cheese Auction.