On The Trail, Day 2–We Have Liftoff

The 2023 New York State Fair opened on Wednesday, kicking off a baker’s dozen of sensational days of  Empire State excitement.

A unusually large day one crowd crashed the gates as opening day weather was near-perfect.

While a reunion with old favorites is State Fair gold, new features and freshening make every year a little different from its predecessors.

Among the most visible new events are the premiere of the Asian Village, just outside the Youth Building and robotic dinosaurs in the Expo Center.

A 1,600 square foot concession stand opened behind the Eatery (International Building), the first new such stand built in decades. It’s home to Tully’s Good Times, a veteran regional restaurant and popular longtime Fair vendor.

Nearby, renovations outside the dairy cattle barn have eliminated longtime food stands in favor of temporary vendor shelters forming a street median as part of a beautification project. Restaurant Row is largely unchanged, but also brighter, with familiar names and enticing aromas tempting customers. 

This year’s version of the famous butter sculpture was unveiled Tuesday in the Dairy Building with a whimsical depiction of a train being driven by a little cow, while the latest edition of the sand sculpture is under construction in the Center of Progress, this year touting the 10th anniversary of Taste NY as a theme.

Twelve great days remain, so head on out.

Pole Cats

Family fishing Day was a late addition to the special days lineup.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation will hold the free fishing event on Friday, Aug. 25 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 are welcome.

Game Time

Sports-minded visitors can enjoy some friendly competition every day of the New York State Fair with a visit to the Sports Activity Center, home to a variety of exciting events.

Girls and boys basketball tournaments, gymnastics, the New York State Fair Wrestling Challenge, roller derby, Moving Along Flyers Wheelchair Basketball Tournament, and even competition in the fast-growing sport of pickle ball.

Be sure to check out the schedule so you can grab a bleacher seat to watch your favorite sport.

The Sports Activity Center is located in front of the Coliseum, easily accessible by tram. All events are free to watch.