Clinton’s party tent rises

The tent goes up for Chelsea Clinton's (b.) wedding this weekend. It can hold 500 guests.

The big top is up and the big day almost here for Chelsea Clinton.

A massive white tent stands behind a sprawling Rhinebeck estate as preparations for the year’s most anticipated wedding kick into high gear.

The 50-acre Astor Courts estate, overlooking the Hudson River, was abuzz with activity Wednesday in the final hours before the only daughter of ex-President Bill Clinton and Secretary of State Clinton says “I do.”

Three Ryder moving trucks were parked outside, with workers toting large boxes and lugging chairs. The air-conditioned tent will hold 500 guests for the Saturday reception following the ceremony.

One expert predicted a sleek, chic and traditional wedding day for the former First Daughter.

“Chelsea seems very easy-going and natural,” said Maya Kalman, who’s handled several celebrity weddings as CEO and founder of Swank Productions.

“I wouldn’t expect any live lions or extravagance,” she continued. “I expect it to be simple and understated in theme – despite its grand enormity.”

The room where Chelsea and fiancé Marc Mezvinsky will take their vows will be “elegant chic,” Kalman predicted.

Despite gripes from some locals about the hyper-secrecy surrounding the wedding, many Rhinebeck residents said the ceremony was like a Clinton stimulus plan for the town economy.

“Rhinebeck can’t buy publicity like this,” said John Regan, owner of the Rhinebeck Deli. “Chelsea Clinton has been a financial windfall for this entire community.”

The deli’s hottest seller is “Hillary’s The Secretary of Steak” – a 6-ounce Angus sirloin with sauteed onions and cheese on a grilled roll.

“Chelsea’s Choice Wrap” and “Bill’s All American Sandwich” also are on the menu.

The local coffee shop owner agreed the wedding hype is definitely making his cash register ring.

“It’s unbelievable,” said Ira Gutner, the owner of Samuel’s of Rhinebeck. “This wedding has done wonders for my business.”