Did you know? 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 2025 New York State Fair will run from Aug. 20 to Sept. 1 – 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 (however, adults 65 and older and children 12 and younger get in free!). 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). It is worth noting that EZPass Plus is not an option for parking this year, and Empower FCU Amphitheater tickets will no longer give you free admission into the fair.
SPECIAL DAYS
The fair will again offer several special days, including:
- Student Youth Day (Thursday, Aug. 21): Free admission for attendees ages 18 and under.
- Law Enforcement Day (Monday, Aug. 25): Free admission for law enforcement (active or retired).
- Fire, Rescue, & EMS Day (Tuesday, Aug. 26): Free admission for firefighters and emergency personnel (active or retired).
- Sensory Friendly Day (Wednesday, Aug. 27 9 A.M – 1 P.M.): During this time, those with sensitivities can enjoy the fair with rides on the midway operating without lights. Plus, sounds, music, and public announcements throughout the fair will be reduced.
- Armed Forces Day (Thursday, Aug. 28): Free admission for veterans and active military members.
- Native Americans Day (Friday, Aug. 29): Free admission for all members of Native American tribes. ID is not required.
FOR THE FAMILY
Parents, mark your calendars! This year’s fair has plenty of family-friendly performances and events you won’t want to miss:
KIDZ BOP returns to the fair, performing at the Chevy Court on Saturday, Aug. 23 at 1 P.M. Sing and dance along to your favorite songs!
Don’t miss the Coronas Family Petting Zoo, open daily from 11 A.M. to 9 P.M. The petting zoo includes pony rides and camel rides!
Watch the famous Hollywood Racing Pigs “ham it up” and engage in some friendly competition! Races take place daily at 12:15 P.M., 3 P.M., and 5:45 P.M.
Go fish! On August 22 and August 29 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.
Baby Care Cottages
Traveling with little ones? The Fair makes it easier with air-conditioned Baby Care Cottages, offering private, secure spaces for nursing and a separate area for diaper changes and simple infant care. You’ll find them in four convenient locations:
Next to the Chevy Court Pavilion
Outside The Eatery building near the State Parks pond
Across from the Beef Barn restrooms
Next to the Agriculture Museum
These cozy cottages give families peace of mind and comfort during a busy Fair day.
LEARN MORE
For more information and family-friendly events, visit nysfair.ny.gov.
Looking for more events near you in CNY? Don’t forget to check out our CNY Events Calendar!
