Governor Hochul Kicks Off 2025 Great New York State Fair with New Enhancements and Agricultural Investments

Strategic Insights -

As the 2025 Great New York State Fair kicked off on August 20, Governor Kathy Hochul celebrated the event's rich agricultural heritage and highlighted significant new investments in the state's agricultural facilities and exhibits. Under her direction, the fair continues to be the most affordable state fair in the nation, with admission remaining free for those aged 65 and older, along with children 12 years old and under. The fair's ag-focused agenda includes a brand-new Sheep and Wool Center, horse stables, and a renovated Milk Bar, among other enhancements.

Key Takeaways:

  • Governor Kathy Hochul kicked off the 2025 Great New York State Fair, highlighting new agricultural facilities and exhibits that will help fairgoers connect with the state's agricultural industry.
  • The Governor unveiled a new Sheep and Wool Center, horse stables, and a renovated Milk Bar, showcasing the state's commitment to preserving and promoting its agricultural heritage.
  • The fair continues to be the most affordable state fair in the nation, with admission remaining free for those aged 65 and older, along with children 12 years old and under.
  • The fair's agricultural agenda includes a brand-new education and sales center for wool products, which is staffed by volunteers who educate the public about wool and its uses.
  • The fair also features new entertainment acts and top-notch performing artists on its entertainment stages, along with a new mobile app designed to be the ultimate companion for fairgoers.
  • The Governor's investments in the fair are part of her commitment to growing the Central New York economy through tourism, as outlined in the state's CNY Rising strategy.

Statistics:

  • The fair will run from August 20 through Labor Day Monday, September 1, 2025.
  • The fair features a brand-new Sheep Barn, which is 25% larger than the old one and includes a new Wool Center.
  • The new stables are built to supplement the fair's existing stables, which are in nearly constant use for horse shows throughout the year.
  • The fair's new mobile app is now available for free download on both the Apple App Store and Google Play.
  • Admission to the fair remains free for those aged 65 and older, along with children 12 years old and under.

Sources:

  • "The Great New York State Fair and Rebuilding New York" press release
  • The New York State Fair website, [www.nysfair.ny.gov](http://www.nysfair.ny.gov)