Among the improvements visitors to the Columbia County Fair can expect this year is a major upgrade to the North Gate Stage. Adjacent to the Admission Gate #4 entrance off Route 203, this venue traditionally hosts some of the Fair’s most fun and interesting acts. From mentalists and magicians to the Talent Show, Ghent Band, School Queens, and popular ice cream and watermelon eating contests, a wide variety of entertainment makes the North Gate Stage one of the busiest venues onsite.
The Stage has evolved over the years. Originally used for clogging demonstrations, it had a wooden deck, which was replaced a decade ago with a concrete foundation. The metal frame and canvas cover, which provided limited shelter from rain and sun, was formerly used at the Main Stage area. It needed to be removed for cleaning, repair, and storage each season, and its age was showing. A more welcoming and effective solution was needed.
The Columbia County Agricultural Society’s Board of Directors, which oversees the Fair and takes great pride in its appearance, makes improvements each year to the buildings and grounds. Following last year’s run, it began exploring options for a permanent structure to replace the existing North Gate Stage.
Peter Palleschi, owner of Mario’s Home Center, has been a long-time sponsor of the Columbia County Fair. He and his wife Danielle put this project in motion when they stepped forward to generously offer to donate materials to offset the cost. Henry Kriz, of H. Kriz Contracting, LLC, skillfully completed the construction in record time, which includes a permanent roof, walls, and improved ventilation. The talents and contribution of Brian Haefner, owner of Haefner Painting, resulted in beautiful and durable finishes. Leggett Electrical, Inc, also a veteran sponsor of the Fair, installed an array of new technical lighting features. Another Fair sponsor, Pella, contributed windows.
On a recent sunny day, some of those involved in the creation of what will now be known as the North Gate Entertainment Barn gathered to admire the finished product. The President of the Fair’s Board of Directors, Bernie Kelleher, expressed their deep and sincere appreciation.
Fair Manager Eric Barnes noted that he was especially proud to have local businesses showcased in the significant upgrade of this venue. “Without the support of our community and business owners like Pete and Danielle, Henry, and Brian, we would not be able to make the kind of improvements like this that benefit everyone who visits the Fair, as well as those that make the Fair happen,” he said.
Indeed, the new North Gate Entertainment Barn provides a safer, more comfortable and useful space for performers, and Fairgoers will be treated to an even more magical experience when they file in to fill the bleachers for their favorite show. The traditional barn-like design already blends seamlessly into the historic Fairgrounds. The efforts and generosity of good folks, combined with high quality work and details will ensure that this attractive new stage will serve the needs of performers and audiences well into the future.
The 183rd Columbia County Fair is located off Route 66 in Chatham, New York. Opening day is Wednesday, August 28, at noon. The Fair – “always runs over Labor Day”, and concludes on Monday, September 2. General Admission is $15 and includes parking and all entertainment. Daily hours are Wednesday: noon to 11PM, Thursday – Monday: 10AM – 11PM. Seniors Day and Youth Day is Wednesday with special pricing at $5.00 for ALL patrons. Youth under 18 and active military with ID or in uniform are admitted free that day. Children 12 and under are always free.
Advance tickets are $13 per single day admission and are available online and at the Fair Administration Office until August 27. Advance tickets will also be available for purchase July 1- August 27 at all Bank of Greene County branch offices. There are no advance tickets for Wednesday, August 28.
Special Ride Passes are available at the ride ticket booths across from the cattle area near the North Gate Entrance for $25 per day.
Follow us on Facebook. The full Fair schedule and additional information is available at www.columbiafair.com.