One ‘Great’ Summertime Tradition

While summer is still in full swing, it is hard to believe that August—and one of our state’s favorite summertime traditions—is just around the corner.

The 2019 Great New York State Fair is set to kick off Wednesday August 21^st and will run through Monday, September 2^nd.  Record crowds are once again expected and as always, the Fair will have something fun for everyone.

Again this year, the Fair will feature nationally known entertainment, midway rides and of course, great food. As you plan your trip, keep the following in mind:

• Children 12 and under are admitted free every day of the Fair

• Seniors age 60 and over can take advantage of free admission from Monday, August 26^th through Wednesday, August 28^th

• Students 18 and under are admitted free on Friday, August 30^th

• If you have attended—or will attend—a concert at the St. Joseph’s Health Amphitheater at Lakeview, bring your ticket to the Fair, and you will receive free admission!

In addition, there will again be a number of theme days at the Fair, including Agriculture Career Day (August 22^nd), Maple Day (August 25^th) and Armed Forces Day (August 29^th), among others. For more information, visit the Great New York State Fair’s website at www.nysfair.ny.gov.

One of the Fair’s other traditions is selecting talented performers to sing the National Anthem at the start of each day. Recently, 20 semifinalists for the honor were named. The list includes two people from our region—Robert Coad of Oswego and Hannah Gates of Watertown. The winners will be selected by an online poll and you can cast your vote in support of these talented local singers by clicking here. Please note the deadline to do so is August 1^st.

For more than 170 years, the Great New York State Fair has provided family-friendly entertainment to millions of people. As you make your plans for the rest of the summer, do not forget to schedule a trip to the Fair from August 21^st through September 2^nd.