GEDDES — The New York State Fair opens Wednesday and once again features a variety of special days that come with events and free attendance for specific groups.
Seniors 65 and older get into the fair for free every day. So do kids 12 and under. Tickets to the fair cost $6 and are available online. Parking is $10 per vehicle.
Here’s a list of all the fair’s special days:
Wednesday, Aug. 23: Governor’s Day
The governor traditionally visits the fair on opening day.
Thursday, Aug. 24: Student Youth Day/Agriculture Career Day
Free admission for youth and students 18 and younger. ID may be required.
Agriculture Career Day is an opportunity to get young people excited about the possibilities for future jobs in agriculture and give them a chance to learn about career options and connect with industry representatives.
Friday, Aug. 25: Pride Day / New Americans Day / Family Fishing Day
The first state fair in America to host an official Pride Day to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community.
About 100 people will be sworn in as new Americans at a ceremony at Daniella’s Seafood & Pasta House in the Art & Home Center.
The DEC will host a free fishing event from noon to 5 p.m. at the pond in the Experience Area, near Suburban Park. No fishing license is required, and loaner rods are available. All ages and abilities.
Monday, Aug. 28: Law Enforcement Day
Free admission to any active or retired law enforcement or corrections personnel who present a badge or picture ID from the department.
Ceremony honoring fallen officers at noon at the Veterans Memorial in front of the Horticulture Building.
Law enforcement parade starting at the Expo Center at 6 p.m.
Tuesday, Aug. 29: Fire & Rescue Day / Beef Day
Free admission to any active or retired member of a fire department or emergency services organization with photo ID.
Ceremony recognizing fire and rescue workers at 11 a.m. at the Veterans Memorial.
Fire & Rescue Day parade starting at the Expo Center at 6 p.m.
Wednesday, Aug. 30: Women’s Day
A mini-fair will be from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Chevy Court Pavilion featuring advocacy groups for women
Thursday, Aug. 31: Armed Forces Day / Dairy Day / Stomp Out Stigma Day
Free admission to any active duty or veteran with military identification
Ceremony honoring veterans at 11 a.m. at the Veterans Memorial.
Armed forces parade at the Expo Center starting at 6 p.m.
Stomp Out Stigma Day, first introduced in 2018, is meant to promote hope and recovery, to help make sure those who may be struggling with addiction feel loved, supported, and provide education about available services.
BRiDGES invites fairgoers to “Chalk the Walk” and light lanterns in remembrance of loved ones.
Friday, Sept. 1: Native Americans Day
Free admission for all members of Native American tribes. ID not required.
Saturday, Sept. 2: Apple Day
The New York Apple Association hosts trivia, games and free samples of New York’s state fruit with an exhibit in the Horticulture Building.
Monday, Sept. 4: Labor Day
Organized labor members to lead a parade from the Expo Center starting at 10:30 a.m.
