The Grandstand at the Columbia County Fair has been the scene of great entertainment over the years. Erected in 1881 in a record ten days, it was host to harness racing on the half-mile oval, exciting contests involving the best trotters and pacers in this part of the country. Today it serves a variety of purposes from the Demolition Derby, Antique Tractor Pull, and Monster Trucks to Labor Day’s Rodeo. Musical entertainment is also presented at the Grandstand’s Main Stage. Fairgoers may recall memorable shows with iconic artists like Charlie Daniels, Brad Paisley, Marshall Tucker Band, and Billy Ray Cyrus, playing there under a summer night’s sky in years past.
A. Colarusso and Son is a family-owned and operated business which has served Columbia County for well over 100 years. Founded in 1912 by Antonio Colarusso, the company is a heavy highway contractor and road builder. Fourth-generation family members and current President Paul Colarusso and Vice-President Robert Colarusso have been a Platinum Level Sponsor of the Fair for decades, supporting infrastructure maintenance and upgrades. To honor their dedication and generosity, the Board of Directors of the Columbia County Agricultural Society has named the Grandstand in the company’s honor.
Be sure to catch your favorite Grandstand event at this year’s Fair. Antique Tractors kick off the Fair on Wednesday at 4pm. The Demo Derby returns for two nights of happy mayhem Thursday and Friday, beginning at 6:30pm. Monster Trucks roar in on Saturday at 4. And don’t miss Grammy nominated, multi-platinum vocalist Sammy Kershaw, who will continue the tradition of country music entertainment at the Fair. He headlines at 4pm on Sunday.
No pets are allowed on the Fairgrounds at any time. Service dogs that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for individuals with disabilities will be admitted. ALL Service dogs must have proof of rabies vaccinations to enter the grounds. Do not leave your pets in the car. Any animal left in a vehicle will be turned over to the local authorities/dog warden at the expense of the owner.
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.