GEDDES, N.Y. — Opening day is two weeks away and interest for the Great New York State Fair is already breaking records! Fair officials reported 27,668 wristbands were sold by Wade Shows during last week’s Midway Flash Sale, a nearly 60% jump than last year.
The Fair’s lineup of Special Days has been announced, including returning classics and two brand-new additions. This year, fairgoers can enjoy Grape Day and STEAM Day, highlighting two of Central New York’s most prominent industries: agriculture and technology.
Fairgoers can expect live performances, demonstrations, competitions, and spirited activities designed to highlight each day’s theme. The Midway will be open daily from 11a.m. to 11p.m. The fair runs from Wednesday, August 26, through Labor Day. Tickets can be purchased online.
Thursday, August 27
The day after opening day focuses on agriculture and students with brand-new Grape Day and STEAM Day, partnered with Agriculture Career Day and Student Youth Day at the fair. Students, SUNY Students with a valid ID, and youth aged 18-and-younger get in for free.
STEAM Day is meant to inspire curiosity and creativity for learning of all ages through hands-on activities that bring science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to life. The Syracuse City School District will have a booth on it’s new Syracuse STEAM School for parents and students to explore at Chevy Court.
Agriculture Career Day rounds out opportunities to explore potential future career paths. Fairgoers will be able to learn directly from experts in the field, and partake in a themed scavenger hunt for a chance to enter to win an iPad. There will also be fun-filled activities for the all new Grape Day at the fair, meant to spotlight the State’s superfruit.
Friday, August 28
LGBTQ+ Pride Day returns to the fairgrounds, recognizing 15 years since the Marriage Equality Act was passed in New York. Fairgoers will be able to participate in an all-new Pride CommUNITY Celebration, attend a resource fair, or witness the annual Pride Flag raising ceremony.
The fair is once again hosting New Americans Day, aimed at honoring New York’s diverse immigrant communities. A resource fair will be available from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Expo Center.
Monday, August 31
Honor fallen officers on Monday during the Fair’s returning Law Enforcement Day. There will be a ceremony in the Horticulture Building beginning at 11:45 a.m. Active or retired Law Enforcement will get receive free admission for the day if presenting a valid badge or ID.
It is also State Parks Day and Maple Day. Anyone holding an Empire Pass, Access Pass, Lifetime Liberty Pass, or Golden Park Program pass will receive free entry to the Fair. The Fair is home to the smallest State Park. The annual New York Maple Exhibit will take over the Horticulture Building for all-things maple.
Tuesday, September 1
Tasty Tuesday returns with delicious deals, in tandem with Beef Day at the State Fair.
It is also Fire, Rescue and EMS Day. First responders will receive free admission to anyone who has a valid picture ID. A ceremony honoring the agencies will take place outside the Horticulture Building beginning at 11 a.m.
Wednesday, September 2
It’s Women’s Day and Sensory Friendly Day at the fair. And Wacky Wednesday Wristband returns.
Women’s Day will feature a Health & Wellness Mini-Fair from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Chevy Court Pavilion. Between 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. lights, sounds, music, and public announcements will be dimmed for sensitive individuals.
Thursday, September 3
Active and retired military personnel will get in for free during Armed Forces Day at the fair, as long as valid ID is shown. The Armed Forces Day Ceremony features all branches of the U.S. military and will take place in front of the Horticulture Building at 11 a.m.
Multiple Dairy awards will kick off the Fair’s iconic Diary Day. Meant for dairy lovers, the day features numerous educational demonstrations and the annual media milkshake contest.
And Stomp Out Stigma Day promotes hope and recovery for anyone who may be struggling with addiction. The community is invited to draw inspirational messages during the Fair’s Chalk the Walk campaign, beginning at 9:00a.m.
Friday, September 4
The fair is celebrating New York’s indigenous roots with Native Americans Day. There will be a Native American Flag Raising Ceremony and cultural performances within the newly named Haudenosaunee Cultural Village! Members of Native American tribes receive free admission on this day. ID is not required.
Saturday, September 5
Several organizations are partnering for this year’s Rhythm & Resources Job Fair Day, featuring another chance to explore music and career opportunities. At Chevy Court Pavillion from Noon through 9:30 p.m., organizations including Syracuse University, SUNY Upstate, Byrne Dairy, and many more will provide information on potential opportunities.
Monday, September 7
The Labor Day parade marks the ceremonious end of the Great New York State Fair, and the unofficial end to summer. The parade steps off at 10:30 a.m. from the Expo Center, and ends with a firework show.
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