The Great New York State Fair to Implement Infrastructure Changes to Enhance Safety and Security for 2026 Fair

Initiative Strengthens Fairgoer Safety, Enhances Access Controls, and Reinforces The Fair's Commitment to a Safe, Secure, and Family-Friendly Experience

Initiative Strengthens Fairgoer Safety, Enhances Access Controls, and Reinforces The Fair's Commitment to a Safe, Secure, and Family-Friendly Experience

Updated Policies Align with Large-Scale Events and Festivals of Similar Scale

The Great New York State Fair announced a series of policy and infrastructure improvements that will enhance fairgoer safety, strengthen security screening and access controls, and protect against unauthorized vehicle access during the 2026 Fair. The improvements were developed following consultation with public safety professionals and organizers of comparable large-scale events and align with recognized best practices for event security and pedestrian protection. These changes further The Fair's ongoing commitment to providing a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for all fairgoers.

"Our top priority is ensuring everyone who visits The Fair has a safe and enjoyable experience," said Fair Director Julie LaFave. "These improvements support our efforts to provide a secure environment for all guests. After thoughtful evaluation of our current safety protocols, and with our visitors' best interests in mind, these changes further safeguard and protect everyone who sets foot on The Fairgrounds. We remain committed to working closely with our public safety partners and continuously evaluating and improving our safety measures so fairgoers can enjoy everything The Fair has to offer with peace of mind."

Policy and Infrastructure Changes for the 2026 Fair

The changes outlined below primarily affect vendors, exhibitors, staff, and public safety partners, with minimal impacts to fairgoers.

• Vehicle Access Restrictions: From 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. each day of the Fair (August 26-September 7, 2026), vehicles will not be permitted inside the Fairgrounds' exterior perimeter. Exceptions include official New York State Fair and emergency vehicles. These measures are part of our ongoing commitment to prioritize pedestrian safety.
• Parking Changes: Interior parking areas near the Infirmary, Center of Progress Building, and Horticulture Building will be eliminated.
• Camping World Empire RV Park and Belle Isle RV Park Enhancements:
  • Perimeter fencing will be installed to improve security and better manage access.
  • Pedestrian access will remain available at all times through security screening consistent with other Fair entry gates.
  • Vehicle access will be limited to Gate 11 via Cattaraugus Street. Vehicles entering RV Parks must display the appropriate credential.

• Trams: Tram service will be available during Fair operating hours and will follow a two-way horseshoe traffic pattern, with stops along Massapequa Street (near Gate 12), Conrail Street, and Belle Isle Street, offering faster service to fairgoers. Former stops along Tonawanda Street will be converted into cooling stations.

Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Terry O'Leary said, "Safety is our top priority, and we are proud to partner with The Great New York State Fair every year to ensure New Yorkers can enjoy their visit safely and securely. These new security procedures and enhancements set out to make the State Fair a safer experience by utilizing best practices for large scale events. We look forward to once again working with all our partner agencies in making this year's State Fair a safe, welcoming, and family-friendly experience that fairgoers have come to expect."

"The safety of everyone attending the Great New York State Fair remains our highest priority," said New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James. "The New York State Police is proud to work alongside our local, state, and federal public safety partners to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all fairgoers. These enhanced security measures and infrastructure improvements reflect our shared commitment to protecting the public while allowing families and visitors to enjoy one of New York's most cherished traditions with confidence."

President and CEO of the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) David Grindle said, "Fairs continue to be the place where the community gathers to celebrate the accomplishments of our neighbors, connect with one another, and have a great time across generations. Part of the fair's mission is to insure all our attendees and staff are safe and can enjoy the fair. IAFE's Safety and Security Committee encourages all our member fairs to be ever updating their safety plan and procedures to keep with the most up to date guidance."

Ongoing Safety Measures

Over the years, The Fair has made significant investments in advanced security infrastructure, continuous emergency planning, and strong partnerships with local, state, and federal agencies to ensure a positive experience during The Fair and throughout the year.

The safety infrastructure includes the installation of highly sensitive magnetometers and metal detection devices at all public entry points, high-resolution surveillance cameras across the grounds, drone technology, and the use of The Fair's advanced public address systems.

In 2025, The Fair introduced the Fairgrounds Alert System, which provides critical, real-time updates on weather, security, and other important information via text message. Fairgoers are encouraged to text NYSF to 888777 to subscribe annually.

These measures are part of a comprehensive public safety and emergency management strategy guided by an Emergency Operations Protocol. Additionally, public safety agencies staff the Fairgrounds 24/7, monitoring activities, maintaining a physical presence, and coordinating rapid responses to any concerns.

The State Fair's safety framework is further strengthened through ongoing collaboration and training with law enforcement agencies such as the New York State Police, Onondaga County Sheriff's Office, local police departments, the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, and numerous other public safety organizations.

About The Great New York State Fair

The Fair starts Wednesday, August 26, and runs through Labor Day, Monday, September 7. All concerts are included in the price of admission. Packed with value, a single admission ticket costs $8 and includes access to all grounds entertainment and the Chevrolet Music Series. In addition, a Frequent Fairgoer ticket option is available for $25. The Fair continues to be one of the most affordable fairs in the nation, with admission remaining free for those aged 65 and older along with children 12 years old and under.

Founded in 1841, The Great New York State Fair showcases the best of New York agriculture, provides top-quality entertainment, and is a key piece of the state's CNY Rising strategy of growing the Central New York economy through tourism. It is the oldest fair in the United States and is consistently recognized as being among the top five state fairs in the nation.

The New York State Fairgrounds is a 375-acre exhibit and entertainment complex that operates all year. Audiences are encouraged to learn more about The Great New York State Fair online, browse photos on Flickr, and follow the fun on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram.

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