If you’re heading out to the New York State Fair on Saturday, make it an early arrival.

CARS 18The Saturday before Labor Day has traditionally been one of the big attendance days each year and this year presents an unnecessary challenge, a concert featuring hip hop acts Mary J.Blige and NAS on the nearby Lakeview Amphitheater stage.

Even with changes made over the past few year–increasing parking spaces, paving the orange lot and changing bus routes, it’s unreasonable to expect a smooth drive into the State Fair when thousands of fans will also be converging on the Mistake by the Lake.

No need to stay home–just make it an early day at the Fair. There’s plenty of fun to be had for those arriving by mid-morning and you can be glad as you drive home that you’re not part of the inevitable traffic jam.