In A State Where Everything Goes Up, NYS Fair Cuts 2020 Admission Fee

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The Great New York State Fair has announced admission to the expanded 2020 Fair will be “more affordable than ever” in 2020 (Editor’s Note: no, not more affordable than ever, just more affordable since 1990) as admission tickets will cost $3 when purchased online and $5 at the gate — the lowest price since 1990 and a significant drop from the pricing of $6 before the Fair and $10 during the run of the Fair that has been charged since 2005. This year’s Fair will maintain its variety of free and low-cost admission days for certain groups — and children age 12 and under will continue to be admitted free of charge.


Through expanded marketing efforts, increased free or low-cost entertainment and making $120 million worth of capital improvements to the fair grounds, attendance at the nation’s oldest state fair has grown by more than 46 percent in four years


“Admission prices at major fairs across the country continue to rise, which strains the ability of many families on ever-tighter budgets to enjoy a day together. We believe all New Yorkers should be able to come to their state’s fair to enjoy the many free and low-cost activities we provide while spending the money they do have to make the most of their day,” said Troy Waffner, fair director.


Advanced sales of $3 admission tickets will begin April 1. All sales will be only via Etix’ online channel or by phone to Etix customer support at 1-800-514-3849. Tickets ordered by phone incur a $4.25 delivery charge. The retail sales program at community businesses has been discontinued. Those buying tickets at the entrance gate will pay $5.


Before buying tickets, buyers should be aware of the Fair’s special and promotional days, which offer discounts for certain groups:

  • Children: Age 12 and under admitted free every day;
  • Biker Appreciation Day: Motorcyclsits to park for free in any lot and be admitted for $1 when showing a New York State motorcycle license on Saturday, August 29;
  • Senior Days: Adults age 60 and over admitted free on consecutive Mondays and Tuesdays on August 24-25 and August 31 and September 1;
  • Fire and Rescue Day: Members of fire departments and emergency services organizations with ID are admitted free on Monday, August 24;
  • Women’s Day: All women are admitted for $1 on Wednesday, August 26;
  • Law Enforcement Day: All members of police agencies with ID are admitted free on Monday, August 31;
  • Native American Day: Members of all Indian tribes admitted free on Friday, September 4, through Gate 5;
  • Student Day: Age 18 and under admitted free of charge on Friday, September 4;
  • Dollar Day on Labor Day: Admission is $1 on the final day of the fair, Monday, September 7.
The complete list of special and promotional days can be found on the Fair’s website.