Syracuse Sun

The Great New York State Fair is an annual tradition that delivers top-tier entertainment, unique crafts, and family fun for kids and adults of all ages. The fair, which is the oldest in the U.S., delights hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, and this year it will no doubt continue its legacy as a premier summer entertainment event for state residents and tourists alike. Last year, country music star Lainey Wilson set a record for the largest state fair concert crowd with more than 53,000 guests watching her perform.

For 2024, there will be a number of acts following up on last year’s successes. Fans of various music genres will enjoy bands like Blue Öyster Cult, TLC, Dropkick Murphys, Chevelle, and the Ying Yang Twins. To see a more comprehensive list of performers, check out the Suburban Park Concerts schedule and the Chevy Court Concerts schedule.

While musical acts are a major attraction, there are numerous educational and interactive exhibits to enjoy. The Exposition Center will take fairgoers back millions of years with its display of dozens of life-sized animatronic dinosaur replicas. Interactive features include photo opportunities, a fossil dig, Storytime sessions, and dance parties. Additionally, there will be a 4-H Dog Show, Thumbstall Quilters Guild Quilting Demonstrations, among other shows and displays.

Competitions at the fair cater to every interest and age group including draft horse shows, horse pulls, barrel races, amateur wine contests among others.

Fairgoers can also use a complimentary tram service running continuously through the grounds with 10 stops along the route from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. A separate ADA-compliant shuttle will be available for those who need it. Daily admission to the fair is $8 for adults and free for children 12 and under as well as seniors. Parking for the day costs $12.

"We have many great traditions in Central New York," said one attendee. "But the Great New York State Fair has long been a favorite of mine." They added: "We have such a rich history of agriculture, recreation and entertainment... I am very excited for this year’s fair."