JEFFERSON, Wis. -- The start of the Jefferson County Fair is a sign of life returning to in an area devastated by recent flooding.

The fair gates opened for what should be a week of fun, but it will also be an escape for many who haven't had much to smile about lately.

For resident Brian Beaudo, this summer has been unlike any other. He wasn't directly affected by June's flooding. But like most in Jefferson County, the rising waters were impossible to ignore.

"It's been very strange, with getting to places, re-routing to get to the farm where my pigs are, it's just totally different than past years," said Beaudo who raised two pigs named Charlie and Willy.

Beaudo will be showing his two pigs during the fair, which he raised from birth.

The 4-H competitions are one of many events at the fair that are continuing as scheduled but several weeks earlier, fairground officials were forced to cancel programs, WISC-TV reported.

"We had to close all the events, mainly because the city was basically cut in half with all the bridges being closed," said Roger Kylmanen, the fair parks supervisor.

Whether it's catching a fish, visiting a tiger, or going for a ride, the fair has given the community something to look forward to. It's a chance to leave any thoughts of floods behind, if only for a moment, WISC-TV reported.

"It's been a struggle, the past five weeks here in Jefferson," said Kylmanen. "I think this is maybe some way of getting back to normalcy, and enjoying themselves and having some fun for all that we've been through."

As for Beaudo, there's only one thing that could make his time at the fair more enjoyable, presenting a champion.

"Showing is just fun, and to get a blue or better, is even better," said Beaudo.

Wednesday's afternoon opening of the fair was a little slow, but it was expected pick up that evening for the Badger Tractor Pull. Other musical acts, include artists such as Eddie Money, who will be performing this weekend.

Meanwhile, traffic in downtown Jefferson is finally returning to normal. The Main Street Bridge, Highway 26, has been re-opened. It's a key artery through town but has been closed for weeks because of flooding.