NORWICH – For years, the Fourth of July meant flea markets, live music, crafts, food and – of course – fireworks at the Chenango County Fairgrounds. This summer, thanks to a dedicated group of local residents, that tradition will return with the first-ever Fourth of July Music and Balloon Fest.

The newly formed festival – organized by local music fans Debbie Bowers and Rick Stark – will feature live musical performances throughout the day, kicking off at 11 a.m. July 4. Local and regional acts Honeystruck, Jason Wicks, Sundown, The Roundhouse Rockers and the Rochester-based Ruby Shooz have all been tapped for the day’s entertainment, with more groups – and solo acts – to be announced in the coming months. Add to that a flea market, hot-air balloons, craft and food vendors, hot dog eating contest, chicken barbecue, cruise-in and fireworks, and you have a recipe for success, said Bowers.

Following last year’s fireworks-only Fourth of July at the fairgrounds, Bowers and Stark said they were determined to get involved. And while it’s a “big job for such a small group,” Bowers said the decision to do so was an easy one.

Added Bowers, “We both love music and people and we wanted to create a fun, family event for people to enjoy.”

Now, said the pair, all that’s needed are more volunteers – including two people willing to organize the planned cruise-in and a possible kayak race along the Chenango River – and additional sponsors.