The Great New York State Fair is known for its live entertainment, rides and attractions and who could forget the FOOD.
The State Fair is looking for your tastebuds to be the judge. This is your chance to make your voice heard on who’s got the best State Fair food.
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Best Of Fair
For years, the Great New York State Fair has been the go-to spot for food and drink vendors to showcase delicious creations and entice fairgoers with something new each year.
2026 will be the first year of the “Best Of Fair” competition.
READ MORE: 30+ New Ways To Stuff Your Face At The New York State Fair
The best part is that the fair is looking for you to be a judge alongside local celebrity judges.
From savory dishes to mocktails, judges can taste delicious vendor entries and help choose winners for the 2026 Fair.
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Available Dates To Judge
Monday, August 31st at 10 a.m.
Tuesday, September 1st at 10 a.m.
Wednesday, September 2nd at 10 a.m.
Thursday, September 3rd at 10 a.m.
Best Mocktail/Non-Alcoholic Drink
Friday, September 4th at 10 a.m.
Best Cocktail/Alcoholic Drink
mstroz/Think StockFair food signage.
How To Sign Up
All judging will be held at 10 a.m. in the Empire Room located in the Creative Arts Center at the Fair.
Interested judges can select a preferred date and category you’d like to judge.
Selected judges will be notified the week of August 24th.
READ MORE: The 2026 State Fair Butter Sculpture Is Coming
Sign up now for the chance to be selected as an official Fair Judge!
New York State Fair Butter Sculptures Through the Years
Take a look at the Butter Sculptures over the years at the New York State Fair.
Gallery Credit: Credit – Polly McAdams