Showcase Your Business This Summer: Become a Vendor at The 2026 Great New York State Fair

Could this be your time to shine? The Great New York State Fair is excited to announce that vendor applications for 2026 (August 26 - September 7, 2026) are now open! If you're passionate about sharing your unique brand, popular products, and creating memorable experiences for fairgoers, this is your chance to be part of New York's biggest summer celebration as The Fair seeks to introduce fresh, innovative offerings alongside its cherished traditions.

From regional favorites and cultural delicacies to trending accessories, home and garden accents, and even tattoos, there's a bustling marketplace at The Fair. Each year, nearly one million visitors flock to the fairgrounds in search of delicious food, distinct merchandise, and inspiring entertainment. For many vendors, the Fair provides an ideal platform to showcase their products and services to a vast audience, build loyal fans, and generate repeat business.

"The Great New York State Fair has played a huge role in our story the last 10 years," said Nick Sandford, owner of Toss & Fire Pizza. Every year, we meet thousands of new guests who turn into regulars, supporters, and friends. The Fair brings an unmatched sense of community, and being a part of it has allowed Toss & Fire to grow in ways we never imagined when we first rolled in with one little wood-fired oven."

Kirstie Phillips, owner of boutique Pink Bronco said, "Pink Bronco's debut at the New York State Fair marked a pivotal moment for the brand, delivering overwhelming customer engagement, strong sales, and invaluable brand exposure over the course of the run. The momentum and visibility gained at The Fair helped play a role in successfully launching the business, helping Pink Bronco quickly establish a loyal following and confidence to scale into new markets."

"One of the best parts of my job is providing opportunities for businesses to thrive," said Fair Director Julie LaFave. "We work closely with our vendors to ensure they have the best Fair experience possible, and in turn, our fairgoers enjoy a memorable event filled with variety and quality."

Interested in Becoming a Vendor?

Visit Becoming a Vendor at The Great New York State Fair to learn more about required documentation and to submit your application to join us for what promises to be an unforgettable 13 days of fun, food, and community!

Important Application Dates for 2026:

• January 16, 2026
  • Priority deadline for returning vendor applications
• January 19, 2026
  • New vendor applications will begin to be reviewed on a continuous basis
• March 15, 2026
  • Final date for submitting return and new vendor applications
  • After this date, vendor rates will incur a 1.5% increased price

Questions? Contact Concessions & Exhibits at [email protected] or call (315) 487-7711.

The 2026 Great New York State Fair runs from Wednesday, August 26 through Monday, September 7. All concerts are included in the price of admission. Packed with value, a single admission ticket includes access to all grounds entertainment and The Fair's award-winning concert lineup.

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, Twitter, and Instagram.

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