The Great New York State Fair is held each summer at the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse, New York. The Fair runs for 13 days, typically beginning in late August and ending on Labor Day. Check this page each year for the latest dates, hours, and admission information.
The Great New York State Fair
Every summer, Syracuse becomes home to one of the nation's oldest and most celebrated state fairs.
For 13 unforgettable days, The Great New York State Fair brings together agriculture, entertainment, food, culture, and family fun at the historic New York State Fairgrounds.
A New York Tradition Since 1841
Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning for another year of traditions, the Fair offers something for every age! From award-winning livestock and iconic butter sculptures to thrilling midway rides, live concerts, and some of the best fair food you'll find anywhere in New York.
2026 NYS Fair important dates are August 26 through Labor Day, September 7
What You'll Experience
There's no shortage of things to see and do throughout the Fairgrounds.
- National recording artists performing daily on the Chevy Court and Suburban Park stages
- Over 50 midway rides and classic carnival games
- Hundreds of food vendors serving iconic Fair favorites and New York-made specialties
- Award-winning livestock, agricultural exhibits, and demonstrations
- The famous Butter Sculpture and impressive Sand Sculpture
- Cultural villages celebrating the diverse traditions and communities of New York State
- Shopping from local artisans, makers, and specialty vendors
- Family-friendly attractions, competitions, gardens, and interactive exhibits
Whether you're planning a day trip or spending several days exploring, every visit offers something new to discover.
Plan Your Fair Adventure
The Great New York State Fair is more than an event, it's a summer tradition. With concerts, special theme days, unique exhibits, and activities happening throughout the Fair's 13-day run, planning ahead will help you make the most of your visit.
Get the Most Out of Your Visit
Want insider tips before you go? We've put together helpful guides to make planning easy.
Fair Bucket List
Discover our favorite must-see attractions, iconic foods, hidden gems, and can't-miss experiences at The Great New York State Fair.
One-Day Fair Itinerary
Not sure where to start? Follow our suggested itinerary to experience the best of the Fair—from breakfast and exhibits to concerts, shopping, and evening entertainment.
Explore the One-Day Fair Itinerary
Stay a Little Longer
The Fair is just the beginning. While you're in Syracuse, explore local restaurants, attractions, museums, breweries, parks, and nearby Finger Lakes experiences to turn your Fair visit into a memorable getaway.
FAQ
Absolutely! Most visitors spend an entire day exploring everything the Fair has to offer. Between live concerts, agricultural exhibits, livestock barns, the Midway, shopping, cultural villages, demonstrations, family attractions, and hundreds of food vendors, there's something around every corner. If you're planning to see multiple concerts or exhibits, you may even want to visit more than once.
As each year's Fair approaches, we'll update this page with the latest concert lineup, parking information, admission details, special theme days, maps, and daily schedules. Be sure to check back before your visit for the most current information and planning resources.
