This year the Fair has designated so many special days that they’ve had to double and triple up on most of the 12 days of operation. Most are old favorites we’ve seen before, but among the new specials are Pride Day, Friday Aug. 28, which is also designated New Americans Day.

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We’re told that the gay community has long organized an informal gathering of brothers and sisters to attend the Fair as a group. As our nation grows in acceptance of alternative lifestyles, the Fair has embraced this practice and formalized it with a ceremony, parade and flag-raising. Not coincidentally, singer Melissa Etheridge, who has come out as a lesbian and speaks out for LGBT rights, will perform the evening concert on the Stan Colella Stage.

That same day, 100 people from many other nations will be sworn as American citizens in the Empire Room. Doing it at our Fair also makes them new New Yorkers, don’t you think?

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A rejuvenated Armed Forces Day, Thursday, Sep. 3, will honor military veterans and current service men and women with free admission and special events.
With senior days, Fire and Rescue Day, Women’s Day and, of course, Labor Day, among the other designated events, it seems that all of us are recognized in some way on at least one day. A visit to the New York State Fair is a terrific way to celebrate with your group.