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Fan Favorites Hilby, Bandaloni, Circus Hollywood, and Sea Lion Splash Show Returning
Find Your Favorite Activity on Special Entertainment Map Linked Here
From death-defying aerial acrobatics to world-class artwork designed to bring pavement to life, The Great New York State Fair is pleased to introduce the newest additions to its ground entertainment acts, which include a mix of new performers, fan-favorites, and requested returns that are sure to delight fairgoers of all ages.
A pioneer in the thrill and stunt industry, Nerveless Nocks Productions has been captivating audiences worldwide for nearly 175 years. Nerveless Nocks debuted in the United States in 1954 after headlining The Greatest Show on Earth with their original Sway Pole extravaganza – a death-defying display of balance, courage, and mastery of gravity. Today, Nerveless Nocks has earned universal acclaim for their breathtaking aerial show that will leave audiences in awe. Be sure to check out their world-famous finale that features a free fall plunge to the ground below. Look for Nerveless Nocks Sway Pole Show near Central Park with daily shows happening at 12 p.m., 3 p.m., and 5 p.m.
Ally Walker Inks Chalk Artist specializes in transforming the ordinary into something extraordinary through breathtaking designs transposed onto pavement. Experience the magic of vibrant hues and intricate designs as Ally Walker Inks showcases unparalleled talent at The Great New York State Fair. Watch is awe as pavement comes to life with whimsical creations and stunning masterpieces, each stroke adding a touch of wonder to The Fairs bustling atmosphere. Engage with the artist, witness the creative process up close, and capture the moment by taking selfies that can help make your visit even more memorable. Look for Ally Walker Inks’ designs throughout The Fairgrounds.
Another fan favorite that fairgoers can look forward to seeing at this year’s Fair is “Groovy” Guy Collins. Groovy Guy started juggling on the streets of Paris when he was a teenager, now, decades later, he’s an international street performing sensation whose skills have been featured on The Travel Channel. He juggles, unicycles, and walks on ropes – all while weaving in mischievous magic. Groovy Guy is performing at The Fair on a limited engagement. Look for him during the first six days of The Fair, from August 21 through the 26, with three performances each day.
Rock-It The Robot is set to return this year as this gentle giant stands nine-feet tall and walks, talks, and rocks. He has a built-in sound system that helps him interact with fairgoers through conversation, song, and dance. Rock-It’s animated face is full of expression, making him seem even more life-like. Look for Rock-It between The Exposition Center and The Midway every day around 10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 4:30 p.m.
Fairgoers can also catch music on the move between the Poultry Building and along Restaurant Row around 2 p.m., 4 p.m., and 7 p.m. Can you keep up with The Strolling Piano as it plays your favorite tunes while rolling merrily along?
The Sea Lion Splash Show is another highlight sure to be on everyone’s must-see list. Starring Californian and South American Sea Lions, the 45-minute Sea Lion Splash Show is educational and entertaining. From selfies, to balancing, handstands, performance tricks, and more – these smiling sea stars do it all! Three shows are scheduled each day throughout The Fair’s 13-day run.
Speaking of entertainers who like to “ham it up,” how can fairgoers not squeal with delight when they watch the Hollywood Racing Pigs face off in races three times a day? The Family Fun Zone is the place to be to check out the porky competitors, take in a Circus Show, and stroll through the Petting Zoo.
Steve Trash, Eco-Magician is coming back to The Great New York State Fair for the third year in a row. This Rockin’ Eco Hero and PBS host mixes his passions – magic, music, and ecology – to deliver a unique show packed with laughs. He’ll be back on the Empire Theater Stage every day except August 23* at 11 a.m., 3 p.m., and 5 p.m.
*On August 23, Steve Trash will perform at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. along The Colonnade between the Science & Industry Building and the Dairy Products Building.
Fairgoers can also look forward to the return of mainstays including Hilby the Skinny German Juggle Boy, Bandaloni the One-Man Band, and the Birds of Prey exhibit at the State Park at The Fair.
Hilby, an Ithaca native – who just may be The Fair’s most requested performer – comes back on Tuesday, August 27. His act promises juggling, circus skills, impeccably timed comedy, and poetry-in-motion from the top of a unicycle. Show times are at 11:15 a.m., 2:30 p.m., and 5 p.m. Look for him between The Dairy Products Building and The Eatery.
Each day during The Fair, Bandaloni the One-Man Band will be rocking and rolling behind the Horse Barns around 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 5 p.m. Listen to the hits played on his all-encompassing musical machine, The Granpod, with humor and novelty tricks sprinkled in.
Birds of Prey invites fairgoers to fly on over to State Park at The Fair where they can witness majestic birds and learn about them through daily demonstrations scheduled for 11 a.m., 2:15 p.m., and 4:30 p.m. each day.
Finally, step back in time to 65 million years ago as Dinosaur Expedition returns to The Exposition Center for all 13 days of The Fair. With 60 true-to-life dinosaurs ranging in size from babies to 35-foot mammoths that span as long as 80 feet, visitors will feel like they’ve been transported to prehistoric times. With daily fossil digs, story time, and plenty of selfie opportunities, you won’t want to miss Dinosaur Expedition every day from 10 a.m. through 9 p.m.
“The Great New York State Fair is jam packed with value and fun for everyone,” said Fair Director Julie LaFave. “A ticket to The Fair includes access to world-renowned entertainers, global recording artists inside Chevy Court and at Suburban Park, and a front row seat to the very best of New York State’s award-winning agriculture. We’re excited about the mix of thrilling new attractions and entertainment blended with so many fan favorites and we know fairgoers will be, too!”
Activities of interest, a complete schedule, and guide of where to find all Ground Entertainment Acts are provided on the complete map of The Fair. Fairgoers are encouraged to look for the stars on the map to find the locations of performers they’d like to see. Music Note icons depict places that will be playing live music. Grid letters and numbers are consistent throughout all maps to help fairgoers plan their activities. Visitors can also scan an “Entertainment Finder” code on their phones or use interactive kiosks throughout the grounds to see a list of all programming and schedules.
The Fair starts Wednesday, August 21, and runs through Labor Day, Monday, September 2. Admission to The Great New York State Fair includes access to 39 national recording acts. There will be a daily 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. concert at Chevy Court (located near Gate 1), and a daily 8 p.m. concert at Suburban Park (located on the western end of the Fairgrounds, beyond the Midway).
Admission tickets, parking, and passes for The Fair’s famous Midway are now on sale and can be purchased by visiting The Great New York State Fair’s website. Admission tickets are $8 (plus fees) for adults while admission is free for children under 12 and senior citizens aged 65 and older. Fairgoers can also purchase a Frequent Fairgoer pass for $25 (plus fees), which provides admission to all 13-days of The Fair’s run. Parking is $12 per vehicle, plus fees.
Updated concert schedules are available on The Fair’s website at pages dedicated to Chevy Court and Suburban Park.
Founded in 1841, The Great New York State Fair showcases the best of New York agriculture, provides top-quality entertainment, and is a key piece of the state’s CNY Rising strategy of growing the Central New York economy through tourism. It is the oldest fair in the United States and is consistently recognized as being among the top five state fairs in the nation.
The New York State Fairgrounds is a 375-acre exhibit and entertainment complex that operates all year. Audiences are encouraged to learn more about the Great New York State Fair online, browse photos on Flickr, and follow the fun on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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