Reimagined New York State Fair will Return in 2021

The Great New York State Fair will return in 2021 for an end of summer celebration, according to Governor Andrew Cuomo. The New York State Fair will take place at the fairgrounds in Syracuse from August 20 to September 6, 2021 and will include musical performances, Midway rides, agriculture education, plus food and drinks. 

The New York State Fair had been a staple in Upstate New York for entertainment and fun since it first started all the way back in 1841. Due to COVID-19, the fair was cancelled last year. This reimagined version of the State Fair will look quite similar to the event that is loved and known by people. The Great New York State Fair will take place in four outdoor areas across the fairgrounds, one representing each of the major elements that make the fair great. 

The fair will feature an exceptional array of food and beverage including some of the Fair’s most iconic culinary experiences, such as the Pizze Fritte, sausage sandwiches and wine slushies. It will also host daily concerts from national touring performers in the scenic, spacious New York Experience festival grounds. Have thrilling amusement rides, games and attractions for all ages on the Midway. It also will feature farm animals on display to introduce the young and young-at-heart to New York’s agriculture. Admission to the fair will only be $3 per person, with children under 12 being admitted free of charge.

new york state fair

Although a full list of acts hasn’t been announced yet, it has been revealed that there will be performances from REO Speedwagon, Dropkick Murphys, Sheena Easton, Great White and Vixen and the Oak Ridge Boys at least. 

Governor Cuomo spoke of the resurrection of the fair saying,

The New York State Fair is one of our biggest and most exciting tourist attractions that celebrates the spirit of New York and generates economic growth for the region and the entire state. I’ve said time and again that no one wants to open the Fair this year more than I do – and we are finally making it happen in a safe, responsible way with the 2021 Reimagined New York State Fair. This celebration is a unique reward for New Yorkers who have made so many sacrifices during this pandemic and will allow visitors from across the state and the country to enjoy some of the best attractions the Fair has to offer with all necessary safety guidelines in place. This is an important step towards the full return of New York’s largest events as we continue to reopen and reimagine our state’s economy.

The preparation for the fair will be in accordance with the Department of Health’s COVID-19 health and safety guidance. As public health conditions and the guidance changes, the fair will adapt and adhere to all applicable health protocols, such as capacity restrictions, social distancing, face coverings, and health screening where necessary.

new york state fair
The Wallflowers – Great NY State Fair Grandstands

Daily admission is planned to be limited to approximately 50 percent of capacity for the areas available for attendees to allow for social distancing. Capacity limits will be reexamined and adjusted if necessary to comply with health and safety guidelines. The fairground’s buildings will not be open to the public, except for bathrooms. Attendees will be required to observe social distancing and wear masks, except when eating or drinking. People buying food and drinks will be asked to sit while they eat and drink, and ample tables and dining spaces will be made available. Midway rides, games and attractions, as well as all surfaces of frequent customer contact will be rigorously and frequently cleaned and sanitized.

joan jett new york state fair
Joan Jett and The Black Hearts – Great New York State Fair Chevy Court

Further details on fair ticket sales and on specific rules for guests will be announced later and will be subject to change with the State’s health and safety guidance change and adapt over time. Visit the New York State Fair website for more information.

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