Every summer millions of New Yorkers flock to Syracuse to experience one of America’s longest-running and best-loved traditions: the Great New York State Fair. On the scene since 1841, the fair returns again in 2025 with a formula that combines past and present: 13 days of shows, adrenaline-pumping rides, farm animals, local specialties, and a packed music program, all included in the price of admission. Located in the heart of the state, the fair is the perfect end-of-summer outing for those seeking authentic entertainment and small-town America vibes.
One of the beating hearts of the fair is music. Concerts, included in the ticket, are held on two main stages-Chevy Court and Suburban Park-and span genres and generations. The 2025 edition will feature performances by artists such as AJR, Busta Rhymes, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Shaggy and Dionne Warwick, all the way to children’s shows with Blippi: Join the Band Tour. An eclectic calendar designed to please families, nostalgic and young fans, at no extra cost.
But what makes the Great Fair truly unforgettable is the food offerings. Fair food reaches epic heights here: deep-fried Oreos, giant turkey legs, fresh-cut chips, gyros and artisanal lemonades are just a few of the delicacies that populate the fairgrounds’ avenues. Iconic stands, such as Nancy’s Gyros or The Baked Potato Express, are now an integral part of the experience. Byrne Dairy’s famous milk, served for 25 cents, is also an unmissable ritual.
In addition to food and music, the fair offers entertainment for all tastes. More than 50 rides color the Midway, while butter and sand sculptures attract young and old alike. There are art exhibits, native culture shows in the Iroquois Village, and pavilions where you can buy crafts and local products. For the little ones, you can interact with horses, pigs and other animals in the fair’s stables. A rare opportunity to get up close and personal with rural life in upstate New York.
Getting there is easier than ever: in addition to the car, Amtrak offers direct train service from Manhattan’s Moynihan Train Hall to the fairgrounds all 13 days. A convenient, scenic and environmentally friendly option for stress-free travel to the fairgrounds. Tickets cost $8 online (free for under 12 and over 65), while parking is available with prepaid vouchers only. An end-of-summer celebration worth every mile.
The article The Great New York State Fair: 13 days of taste, music and tradition comes from TheNewyorker.
