The first New York State Fair took place in 1841.
Nearly two centuries later, it continues to be a staple of the summer calendar. Here is everything you need to know about this year’s event:
DATES AND HOURS
The 2024 New York State Fair will run from Aug. 21 to Sept. 2 – a total of 13 days. The fairground will be open from 9 a.m. – 11 p.m. each day (except Labor Day, when its hours will be 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.).
DAILY ADMISSION AND PARKING
The admission fee is $8 per person (unless someone in your family is 65 and older or 12 and younger; they can get in for free all 13 days of the fair). Tickets must be purchased in advance at etix.com. Parking can be purchased online too, or you can use a credit card at the lot entrances (either way, the cost is $12).
SPECIAL DAYS
The fair will again offer several special days, including:
- Student Youth Day (Aug. 22): Free admission for attendees ages 18 and under.
- Law Enforcement Day (Aug. 26): Free admission for law enforcement (active or retired).
- Fire & Rescue Day (Aug. 27): Free admission for firefighters and emergency personnel (active or retired).
- Armed Forces Day (Aug. 29): Free admission for veterans and active military members.
FOR THE FAMILY
Parents, mark your calendars! This year’s fair has two family-friendly performances you won’t want to miss: KIDZ BOP on Aug. 24 and Blippi: The Wonderful World on Sept 1.
“Blippi is fun, and his energy is contagious,” said Fair Director Julie LaFave in a press release. “He’ll have audiences singing and dancing at Chevy Court; what an awesome addition to our entertainment lineup for the 2024 Fair, which truly has something for everyone.”
But there’s more! From noon to 4 p.m. on Aug. 23, families can go fishing (for free) in the fair’s experience area – you don’t even need a license (or a fishing rod) to participate.
LEARN MORE
For more information, visit nysfair.ny.gov.
