WE’RE BACK: The wait is over! The 2024 Great New York State Fair officially kicked off on Wednesday, and 38,215 people were here to celebrate the very best that New York has to offer. The day began with a ribbon cutting ceremony where Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado joined State Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Richard Ball, Fair Director Julie LaFave, numerous elected officials, dozens of Fair employees, agricultural superintendents, and representatives from The Fair’s cultural villages to commemorate the beginning of one of summer’s most cherished traditions.
The Future Starts Tomorrow with a Nod to The Past…
PLANTING THE SEEDS: It’s often said that you reap what you sow, and The Fair is planting seeds for future success through career development initiatives. The Fair is proud to shine a spotlight on farmers, producers, and careers in agriculture as part of a continuing focus to emphasis the growing need to develop young professionals for future careers throughout a number of agricultural industries. On Thursday, youth and students 18 years of age and under will receive free admission to The Fair where they can explore numerous exhibits, learn more about the agricultural backbone of New York through interactive exhibits like the state-of-the-art Mobile Dairy Experience, Dairy Cattle Birthing Center, flower shows, and more. Fairgoers of all ages can learn more about over 35 different vegetables, herbs, fruits, and pollinator plants from across New York and take advantage of presentations, demonstrations, videos, activities, and more. On Thursday, Commissioner Ball is scheduled to speak at the garden at 11:00 a.m. where he will speak to the importance of Agriculture Career Day, including information on how to get involved with various agricultural youth groups.
100 REASONS TO CELEBRATE: In case you missed it, New York State Parks hit a major milestone this year as it celebrates 100 years of recreation and stewardship in 2024. Did you know that the smallest State Park in New York resides right in the heart of The Great New York State Fair? To commemorate New York State Parks’ historic anniversary, The Fair is offering free admission on Thursday to anyone who shows an Empire Pass, Access Pass, Lifetime Liberty Pass, or Golden Park Pass at any entrance. We’re also proud to unveil this year’s pin design, which is a nod to State Parks’ historic anniversary. Be sure to stop by the State Park at The Fair to get yours, and while you’re there, check out the Birds of Prey show at 11 a.m., 2:15 p.m., and 4:30 p.m.
BUTTER YOU UP: If you haven’t checked out the 56th annual Butter Sculpture inside the Dairy Products Building, what are you waiting for? Maybe you’ve had a chance to marvel at 800 pounds of butter meticulously crafted into a work of art. While you were looking on in awe, did you stop and say, “I wonder what I would like if I were made of butter?” You’re not alone! In fact, the wildly popular butterizer filter on Instagram is back by popular demand. Simply scan the QR code on the back of any 2024 Fair Map or on interactive kiosks throughout the Fairgrounds and you’ll be able to superimpose your face onto a beautiful bust of butter. Don’t forget to share the results using #NYSFair and #ButterizeMe.
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