GEDDES, N.Y. — The New York State Fair is great for families, but it may not be so friendly for their wallets.
With more than 300 vendors at the State Fair, parents said it takes some planning, but there are ways you can make it affordable. Some even said the fair prices were reasonable.
“We had an idea when we actually looked at the prices, we were pretty pleasantly surprised with entry fees,” said Angela Scarchilli. “Where I am from, they are a lot more expensive than this, so it’s actually pretty affordable.”
However, other parents said the rising prices make it harder for families to enjoy their day at the State Fair.
“I think it’s very expensive when you’re trying to bring a family,” said Linda McCoy. “Too expensive, but we’re here.”
Rodger Wink said he noticed that prices have gone up since the end of the COVID-19 Pandemic.
“I just saw a hot dog for $4. Pre-COVID, it was like a dollar,” said Rodger Wink. “They were trying to cater to families who maybe couldn’t afford $6 or $8 hamburgers.”
Still, Karen Wink said the focus should be on spending time with family.
“This year we brought our granddaughter,” said Karen Wink. “We don’t get to spend much time with her, so the sky is the limit.”
The State Fair has set up several ways for people to enjoy it in an affordable way. That includes 25-cent milk, Tasty Tuesday and several ticketing options.
For all coverage of the Great New York State Fair, follow this link. You can also check out the Great New York State Fair playlist on the CNY Central YouTube channel.