Current and incoming State University of New York students will receive free admission to the Great New York State Fair on August 27, as part of a new initiative announced by Governor Kathy Hochul.
The offer is available to all current SUNY students with a valid student ID and incoming students who present a SUNY admission letter. August 27 is designated as Student Youth Day at the fair.
Hochul said the initiative is intended to make it easier for students to experience one of New York’s largest annual events while learning more about the state’s agricultural industry, history and culture.
The Great New York State Fair runs August 26 through September 7 at the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse.
SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. said the partnership gives students another opportunity to celebrate New York while learning more about educational opportunities available across the SUNY system.
SUNY campuses from around the state will once again have a presence at the fair with exhibits highlighting academic programs, research and career opportunities.
Several campuses with ties to the Finger Lakes and Central New York will participate, including:
- SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, which will offer hands-on STEM activities focused on engineering, chemistry, invasive species and American chestnut restoration.
- SUNY Morrisville, which will feature livestock judging, dairy exhibits, agricultural programs and demonstrations by its University Police K-9 unit during Law Enforcement Day.
- SUNY Upstate Medical University, which will provide mobile mammography screenings on September 2 and 3 and showcase healthcare career programs.
- SUNY College of Optometry, in partnership with SUNY Upstate, which will conduct free vision screenings on September 2.
State Agriculture Commissioner Richard Ball said the fair provides visitors with an opportunity to experience New York agriculture, local food, entertainment and traditions while connecting with industries that play an important role in the state’s economy.
The New York State Fair, established in 1841, is the nation’s oldest state fair and remains one of New York’s largest annual events, featuring agricultural exhibits, live entertainment, competitions, food and family activities.
