GEDDES -- It's hard to believe, but the New York State Fair is just three days away. It's the 163rd year of the fair and there are plenty of new exhibits, restaurants and activities to enjoy. Today, Action News got a chance to get a sneak peak of what's to come.
We boarded a tram to take a guided tour of the fairgrounds. "We work year-found on putting the fair operations together," said State Fair Director Dan O'Hara. Our first stop was the Coliseum and a several hundred thousand dollar upgrade complete with new energy-efficient windows, dust-free footing, upgraded restrooms and florescent lighting. "I was amazed a how much light it brought in here. I was amazed," O'Hara said. Along restaurant row, there was a flurry of activity. Vendors started arriving over the weekend and they continue to set up.
Overall, fair officials say there's been a 10% growth in vendors from last year despite the economic downturn. "I know that the economy has always been a concern," O'Hara said. "The disposable income, the discretionary income from various families is a challenge. But we've made the fair very, very affordable this year," he said.
And there's plenty of new entertainment for kids, including the Rain Forest Experience with exotic animals and the Backyard Circus Parade where kids can dress up. Near the Infield, there's something new called New York Grill, which showcases products produced right here in New York, including Byrne Dairy, New Hope Mills, Saranac and Paul de Lima coffee. "We're gonna serve New York wine, New York beer, New York soda and many other products made right here in New York State," O'Hara said.
And there's no shortage of music this year with 24 Chevy Court concerts and 7 at the Grandstand, including Friday Night at the Fair. For the first time ever, profession boxers will face off. But so far, comedian Jeff Dunham is outselling all other Grandstand acts, including country superstar Kenny Chesney. And then, there's the Solar Decathlon House. A team of 150 current and former Cornell University students are teaming up to build a house powered by solar energy. They'll offer public and private tours for a fee.
Overall, fair officials estimate they've invested more than $1 million on infrastructure improvements. There are tons of new exhibits, so much to see when the gates open Thursday morning at 8am.
