County fairs in New York State have a history deeply rooted in the state’s agriculture heritage that started as informal gatherings of elite farmers. These fairs were an opportunity for farmers to showcase advancements and innovations.
The New York State Legislature established the New York State Agricultural Society in 1832, which was granted funds to promote agriculture. In 1841 the first State Fair in the United States was held in Syracuse. Organized by the New York State Agricultural Society, the event demonstrated the value in showcasing agricultural achievements and fostering community engagement.
Following the success of the State Fair in 1841, the development of county fairs was catalyzed. County fairs quickly became an important part of New York’s agricultural industry and provided farmers, artisans, and inventors the platform to display that work and products.
Over the years, the expansion of county fairs has provided communities an array of offerings, including, competitions, entertainment, and attractions beyond agriculture. The fairs also support local economies by being tourist attractions.
County Fairs of New York State
Afton Fair (Chenango County)
August 5-9, 2025
The all new Afton Fair kicks off August 5 – 9, 2025 and features a mix of exciting free shows, agriculture, motorsports, and more. In 2025, the fair welcomed Dreamland Amusements, who provide an all-new carnival midway complete with modern day thrill, family, and kiddie rides.
The family fun shows including The Dinosaur Experience, Grand Illusions by the Blooms, the dazzling World of Wonders Amazement Show, and more are all free with admission.
July 12-19, 2025
The first Allegany County Fair was held on October 8, 1844 and continues to promote the county’s agricultural heritage and supports agricultural education.
Today the Allegany County Fair is still going strong. The horse-pulling event takes place each year as it has for over 125 years. Horse racing has been replaced with truck and tractor pulls. Some of the newfangled gadgets that were new in the 19th century are on display as antiques to this day at the fair.
Altamont Fair (Albany County)
August 12-17, 2025
In 1893, the summer vacation town of Altamont hosted the first annual Albany County Fair. The Altamont Fairgrounds are one of the largest fairgrounds in New York State, spread out over more than 138 acres.
The annual event brings out the best in entertainment, educational experiences, showcases of local history, while celebrating agriculture, history and current trends. Rides, live music, a demolition derby, racing pigs, livestock shows, exhibits, fair food and much more make this Albany County’s annual fair.
July 22-27, 2025
The first Boonville-Oneida County Fair was held in 1888. The fair hosts activities, 4-H shows, entertainment, and petting zoos.
July 22-27, 2025
The Broome County Fair has a rich history that goes back 150 years. New ideas, improvements and policies have been put in place to enhance the fairgrounds over time.
It began as a way to showcase and celebrate agriculture, and while it still does that, it has expanded to include a carnival, entertainment, and grandstand events.
The Broome County Agricultural Society was incorporated in 1858. In 1871, the Broome County Agricultural Society Board convened to make arrangements for the first fair of Broome County.
Caledonia Fair (Livingston County)
August 20-24, 2025
The Caledonia Fair was first held in 1833. It has since grown as an annual event that highlights community engagement. The fair features midway rides, live entertainment, and craft vendors.
July 26-August 2, 2025
The Cattaraugus County Fair is an agricultural fair known for its traditional fair activities like rides, food, animal exhibits, and live entertainment, including demolition derbies and concerts.
The fair also features a youth market sale with 4-H and FFA members auctioning off animals.
July 15-20, 2025
The Chautauqua County Fair combines farming, food, and fun, offering a variety of attractions including midway rides, grandstand events, animal exhibits and entertainment.
The Chautauqua County Agricultural Society was first organized in 1821 in Mayville, NY with Judge Zattu Cushing of Fredonia as President.
July 29-August 2, 2025
The Chemung County Fair is known as the oldest continuously running fair in the United States, dating back to 1819.
Attractions including animal shows, concerts, festivals, exhibits, and rides are featured making it a staple event for families in the Southern Tier region of New York.
August 6-10, 2025
The Annual Chenango County Fair fairgrounds pack in attractions that aim to leave you with unforgettable memories.
Events like the intense tractor pulls and the thrilling demolition derby guarantee an exciting experience void of any dull moments at the Chenango County Fair. It also offers carnival rides, farm exhibits, 4-H shows, and local vendors.
July 7-12, 2025
The Clinton County Agricultural Society and fair was established in 1948. It has since grown into a popular family-friendly agricultural fair.
The Clinton County Fair provides competitions for 4-H youth and farmers, as well as lived entertainment, local food vendors, and grandstand events like rodeos.
August 27-September 1, 2025
The Columbia County Agricultural Society, Inc. is a non-profit organization that promotes all aspects of agriculture, horticulture, arts and crafts for all age groups through educational instruction display and competitions.
The first Columbia County Fair, held in 1841 featured competitions in livestock, butter, cheese, and manufactured items including flannel, silk, and linen.
July 8-12, 2025
The Cortland Junior Fair was formed in 1953 by a group of individuals who formed the County of Cortland Agricultural Corporation. It was formed when the former County fair closed because of funding.
The children needed a place to exhibit their projects and show their animals, so they could move on to the State Fair in Syracuse, NY. Hence the Junior Fair was started.
The traditional fair highlights local talent and community engagement. It also offers unique attractions like veggie car races, youth pedal tractor pulls, and pageants.
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