Lyric Wallenda, of the world-famous Wallenda family of circus performers, will take to the sky over this year’s Columbia County Fair when Circus Incredible performs at the South Gate Stage.
New entertainment and attractions are sure to take their place among the traditional Fairgoer “favorites” at this year’s Columbia County Fair.
For the first time in its history, the Fair will feature circus acrobats. Performing on a trapeze and on their specially-designed stage near the South Gate, members of two famous European families make up Circus Incredible. Lyric Wallenda and Simon Arestov are a married couple whose daring skills have been thrilling audiences all over the world. Their young son Alex, carrying on the tradition, will also perform with them daily- check the Fair Program for times.
After a couple year-hiatus, the long-running School Queen contest returns on Friday, September 2, at 5:30PM on the North Gate Stage. One representative from each of the county’s six school districts will vie for cash prizes. Judging will be based on personality, poise, and appearance and the winner will take her place in the long line of School Girl Queens in this 82-year tradition.
The Columbia Elite All-Stars will dance, cheer, and tumble their way onto the stage at the Picnic Area at 5pm Saturday, September 3. This troupe of local performers will inspire and entertain you with their spirited routines.
In Livingston Hall, a new craft beverage marketplace will showcase local makers of beer, wine, spirits, and cider. Sample their wares and purchase some to take home. Some of the best of New York State’s craft beverage offerings are made right here in Columbia County!
There’s plenty of fun to be had in some new contests. The Duct Tape Fashion Show will bring out the creative genius in everyone making accessories, housewares, clothing, and other items out of duct tape! Adult amateurs and professionals will compete separately from youth for cash prizes. Entries must be crafted with at least 75% of good ole duct tape, in any color, and will be judged on workmanship, creativity, appearance, and difficulty. Let your imagination run wild!
Calling all bakers! In the new Cookie Contest, kids and adults of any age – experienced and inexperienced alike – are invited to participate individually or as a team in five different cookie categories. A cash prize will also be awarded to an overall “Best of Show” Cookie Baker. All entries must contain chocolate chips and be produced in a home kitchen.
And don’t miss two talented new-comers to the North Gate Stage: Pogo Fred and Michael Goudeau, Comedy Juggler. Their clever antics will amaze and delight you.
The 181st Columbia County Fair is located off Route 66 in Chatham, New York. Opening day is Wednesday, August 31, at noon. The Fair – “always runs over Labor Day”, and concludes on Monday, September 5. General Admission is $12 and includes parking and all entertainment. Daily hours are Wednesday: noon to 11PM, Thursday – Monday: 10AM – 11PM. Seniors Day and Veterans Day is Wednesday with special pricing for $5.00 for ALL patrons. Youth under 18 admitted free that day until 4PM. Children 12 and under are always free.
Advance admission tickets may be purchased for $10 at Price Chopper or any branch of the Bank of Greene County August 1-31, and are also available by mail. Check the Fair’s website for details and a downloadable order form. Special ride passes at $20 Wednesday and Monday and $25 all other days are available at the ride ticket booth near the Cattle Area only from noon through closing.