GEDDES, N.Y. — The Great New York State Fair is highlighting some of the new events, sights and activities you can be a part of this year. The NYS Fair runs from Aug. 26 to Sept. 7 at The Great New York State Fairgrounds in Geddes, N.Y.

New this year

Circus Hollywood – in the Exposition Center! (sponsored by Chevy) — It’s a three-ring extravaganza inside the Exposition Center. Cool off from the summer heat with a magnificent showcase from the talented circus performers of Circus Hollywood. From glittering costumes and high-stakes choreography, you won’t want to miss these amazing acts. Show times are 12:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m., and 6:30 p.m., and performers will be available for meet-and-greets and photo opportunities with fairgoers in between performances.

The Great American Drone Show by Electric Sky Drone Shows — Prepare to be dazzled! Presented by Electric Sky Drone Shows, The Great American Drone Show features more than 300 synchronized drones that will illuminate the night sky in a breathtaking aerial display following the evening performances at Suburban Park on the first two nights of the 2026 Fair only. Experience stunning sky art featuring patriotic imagery and iconic Fair-inspired designs that celebrate America’s history and the traditions of The Fair. It’s a one-of-a-kind spectacle you won’t want to miss! Shows begin at approximately 9:15 p.m. on Wednesday, August 26, and Thursday, August 27, and can be viewed from the area surrounding Suburban Park and the Midway.

The Fast and the Furriest Corgi Races (sponsored by Micron) — Cue the cuteness overload—Corgi Races have arrived! These adorable dogs will be racing for onlookers at the Exposition Center at 11:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m., and 5:00 p.m. Place your bets on your favorite corgi and watch these little guys run!

Ski Extreme Productions — Ski Extreme Productions will make its Fair debut, offering something entirely unrivaled for the extreme sport enthusiast. Expect gravity-defying jet ski, waterski, and wakeboard gymnastics in an amazing 30–40-minute action stunt show filled with exciting thrills, flips, stunts, and tricks that will leave you on the edge of your seat! Show times daily at 11:00 a.m., 4:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. at the pond near Suburban Park.

Returning attractions

Bandaloni — Bandaloni returns for the 2026 Fair following a one-year hiatus. A masterful one-man-band, Bandaloni incorporates harmonica, guitar, kick-drum, and more to create his crowd-favorite strolling act. Performing since 1999, Bandaloni is an expert crowd-thriller, utilizing humor and novelty tricks to delight audiences all Fair long! Find Bandaloni strolling near the Goat, Llama, and Swine Barn at 1:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m., and 6:00 p.m. every day of the Fair.

Birds of Prey, hosted by Hawk Creek Wildlife Center, Inc. (sponsored by Cutco) — Get up close to nature with the Birds of Prey show by Hawk Creek Wildlife Center. Known for their global conservation efforts, Hawk Creek Wildlife Center will be inspiring fairgoers with amazing raptors, including hawks, owls, vultures, falcons and of course, a bald eagle! Enjoy this educational and eye-catching exhibit with presentations that get you closer than ever to incredible birds from around the world. Meet raptors up close and chat with naturalists to learn more about these beautiful creatures. Birds of Prey is located near the New York State Park, with shows daily at 11:00 a.m., 2:15 p.m., and 4:30 p.m.

Canine Stars Stunt Dog Show (sponsored by The New York 529 College Savings Program) — Calling all dog lovers! An America’s Got Talent original, the Canine Stars Stunt Dog Show returns, featuring highly trained dogs performing an array of high-octane stunts. Not to mention that most of these pups are rescues! Stop by this exciting show at 1:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m., and 7:00 p.m. daily near the main entrance of the Midway.

The Coronas Family Petting Zoo — The Coronas Family Petting Zoo provides a hands-on opportunity, quite literally, to experience animals up close. With camel rides, pony rides, and countless animals to pet and feed treats to, including llamas, goats, sheep, and more, everyone will enjoy hanging out with these furry friends. Swing by the Family Fun Zone behind the Expo building and say hello to the farm animals on your way!

Hilby, The Skinny German Juggle Boy (sponsored by Toyota) — A beloved Fair favorite, Hilby, the Skinny German Juggle Boy, will be offering his enduring blend of comedy, juggling tricks, and family-friendly banter as he returns to The Fair this year. Come and see what makes Hilby a fan-favorite outside the Exposition Center with performances September 1-7 only, at 11:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m., and 5:30 p.m.

Hollywood Pig Races (sponsored by Pinnacle Spas) — Don’t miss the hilarious and adorable Hollywood Pig Races, where piggies race to the finish line in a fun-filled, family-friendly competition that’s sure to bring smiles and laughter. See them at 11:45 a.m., 2:45 p.m., and 5:45 p.m.

Jon Stetson, The Mentalist — Participate in a captivating performance with world-renowned mentalist, Jon Stetson. Jon is an expert in advanced intuition, guiding audiences with psychological mastery and illuminating human behavior to help people better understand themselves. It will be an enchanting show and the standing-room-only performances speak for themselves! Find The Mentalist in the Empire Theater of the Creative Arts Center at 11:00 a.m., 3:00 p.m., and 5:00 p.m. daily. Note: only two shows on Friday, August 28, at 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

For more information about the 2026 Great New York State Fair, follow this link.