New York State Fair: The Summer Staple Returns to Syracuse
2025 · Fair · Family Friendly · Featured · New York City · Things To Do
Mark your calendars—The Great New York State Fair rolls in from August 20 to September 1, 2025.
This extravaganza is New York’s largest annual event, melding farm animals, giant midway rides, agricultural displays, artisan vendors, and a free music lineup.
Chevy Court (near Gate 1)
- Daily at 1 p.m. & 6 p.m.: features over 41 national acts.
- Highlights include: ABBA and Lady Gaga tribute shows, Neon Trees, KIDZ BOP, Maddie & Tae, Yacht Rock Revue, DJ Pauly D, Blippi, Dionne Warwick, and more (whec.com).
Suburban Park (west end)
- Nightly at 8 p.m. (6 p.m. on Labor Day):
Country star Nate Smith kicks it off August 20, followed by major acts like Steve Miller Band, O.A.R., Busta Rhymes, 98 Degrees, Carly Pearce, Shaggy, +LIVE+, and All Time Low (whec.com).
Fair Fun Beyond the Music
- Agriculture meets amusement: Explore livestock barns, a massive midway of rides and games, and interactive exhibits showcasing New York’s farming, technology, and innovation.
Iconic traditions: Don’t miss the rotating butter sculpture, Center of Progress building, and the classic Empire RV park—new and improved capacity galore. - Family-friendly accessibility: Expanded sensory‑friendly areas, a dedicated Sensory‑Friendly Day, and an “I LOVE NY” activation booth for trivia and travel fun.
Tickets & Access
- Admission: $8 for adults; free for kids under 12 and seniors 65+
- Fairgrounds: 375 acres of activities at the Empire Expo Center, just west of Syracuse near Onondaga Lake
- Getting there: Amtrak provides a special stop during the fair, accommodating riders from across the state
Tips to Maximize Your Visit
- Arrive early to catch the daytime Chevy Court shows and beat parking crowds.
- Plan your stage route: With overlapping times, set priorities—earlier acts are often unique so worth the hustle.
- Explore the Midway early: Thrill rides and games get busy post‑concert.
- Take breaks: Grab shade in Center of Progress or chill at shaded seating near Chevy Court.
- Bring cash and small bills: Many vendors and games aren’t cashless.
The Great New York State Fair 2025 brings back everything you love! The return of the beloved state‑fair traditions, blockbuster—and quirky—entertainment, education, and mouthwatering food all in one gigantic, nostalgic festival. Whether you’re chasing daytime tributes, headlining rock bands, carnival rides, or butter masterpieces, the Fair offers something for every kind of fairgoer.
See you under the chevron tents and Ferris‑wheel lights this August—don’t miss it!
More…