Governor Hochul Announces The Great New York State Fair to Provide Enhanced Experience and Greater Coordination Among County Fairs in 2022
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GOVERNOR.NY.GOV: Governor Hochul Announces The Great New York State Fair to Provide Enhanced Experience and Greater Coordination Among County Fairs in 2022
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that the Great New York State Fair will return in 2022 as a 13-day event, running from Wednesday, August 24 to Labor Day, Monday, September 5. The return to a 13-day event will allow for greater participation of fairgoers and vendors at not only the New York State Fair, but also at a number of the State's county fairs that had coinciding schedules.
The Governor also directed a review to assess support, growth and revitalization opportunities for all fairs in New York as the State moves into the next fair season. Department of Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Richard A. Ball will work with county fairs to evaluate ways to increase marketing and promotion of county fairs, as well as opportunities to improve youth and agricultural programming initiatives at all fairs statewide, including the State Fair. The review will also examine the State Fair's smoking policy, considering fairgoer feedback and experience.
"The Great New York State Fair is a celebration of this exciting place we all call home, and this year's Fair was no different, delivering a safe and fun event for all," Governor Hochul said. "Returning to a 13-day schedule next year ensures that fairgoers can once again experience all of their favorite shows, exhibits, vendors, and attractions around the New York State Fair while also supporting greater coordination with our county and youth fairs. This will provide an increased economic benefit to more communities and encourage New Yorkers to experience the best of agriculture and entertainment across the State. We are ready to help and support all fairs, and to do what's best for everyone to enjoy them."
The 180-year-old State Fair has lengthened steadily over the last century, stretching back further into August from its traditional final day on Labor Day. The 13-day Fair has been a cornerstone of the Fair's recent revitalization, which has led to increased growth and fairgoer satisfaction.
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Senator John W. Mannion said, "As the showcase and crown jewel for New York agriculture and the state's cultural heritage, the Fair needs to stand alone. For decades, Central New York job seekers planned summers around two weeks of work at the Fair. It is clear that a return to a traditional Fair schedule is in the best interest of all stakeholders. I commend Governor Hochul for her commitment to a shorter and better quality Fair and for making this decision well ahead of next year."