The Great New York State Fair Poised to Celebrate Beef Industry as Part of Beef Day on August 27

Brand New Charcuterie Board Competition to Take Place from 11 a.m. through 12:30 p.m. in Chevy Court Pavilion

Hay Bale Throwing Competition Begins at 1 p.m. in the Beef Barn

The Great New York State Fair will celebrate New York State’s beef industry on Tuesday, August 27, with visitors encouraged to join in on several special activities planned for Beef Day. In addition to having the opportunity to interact with producers of New York’s high-quality beef, fairgoers will be able to learn more about the state’s beef industry and its significant impact on New York’s economy. The day will feature a special charcuterie board competition in Chevy Court Pavilion along with several agricultural competitions where fairgoers can experience the best of New York’s beef industry.

State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “Beef Day at The Great New York State Fair spotlights the hard work of New York’s beef producers and the critical contributions they make to New York agriculture. This special day helps us connect the dots between consumers and agriculture, giving the nearly one million visitors to the Fair an opportunity to engage with our farmers and learn more about this important industry. I’m looking forward to the day’s programming and encourage fairgoers to stop by Chevy Court Pavilion to see the culinary creations that competitors craft as part of the charcuterie board competition.”

Fair Director Julie LaFave said, “Beef Day is part of the fabric of The Great New York State Fair and we’re so pleased that fairgoers will have the opportunity to learn more about such an important agricultural backbone within our state. Whether you’re interested in walking through the cattle barns, speaking with an industry professional, or enjoying a friendly charcuterie board competition in Chevy Court Pavilion, Beef Day is sure to have something for everyone.”

The charcuterie board competition, which takes place from 11:00 a.m. through 12:30 p.m. in Chevy Court Pavilion, will feature local businesses crafting visually stunning and delicious charcuterie boards using secret beef products provided by the New York Beef Council. Hosted by the renowned Anthony Tringale from Eat Local NY, the event promises to be a fair highlight, showcasing the versatility and quality of beef in New York State.

Participants will be judged by a panel of culinary experts, State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball, and representatives from the NY Beef Council on taste, creativity, presentation, and the effective use of beef products. Attendees can watch the culinary action live, cheer on their favorite local businesses, and enjoy a day dedicated to celebrating beef. The first-place winner will be announced during the event, with a press release and social media announcement to follow. Additional prizes will be awarded for categories such as "Most Creative" and "Best Use of Beef."

In addition to the charcuterie board competition, fairgoers are encouraged to explore the Beef Cattle Barn to learn more about the State’s beef industry and enjoy daily competitions, including the Jr. Red Angus Show, Red Angus Open Show, Shorthorn Open Show, Highland Open Beef Cattle Show, and more. Fairgoers can also test their strength at the hay bale throwing competition, which is scheduled to begin at 1:00 p.m. on Beef Day.

Chrissy Claudio, Director of Producer Communication and Consumer Engagement at the New York Beef Council said, “We are thrilled to host this new event, which not only celebrates the incredible beef industry in New York State but also highlights the creativity and talent of our local businesses. We invite everyone to come out and join us for a fun and delicious day at The Fair!”

New York State has nearly 12,800 cattle farms with 1.4 million cattle and calves overall, including almost 110,000 beef cows supplying nutritious, wholesome beef to consumers. The beef industry is one of the top five agricultural sectors in New York, contributing to New York State’s economy by generating more than $298 million in sales annually. New York’s beef community is made up of hard-working and dedicated individuals, and 92% of beef farms in New York are family owned and operated. Beef is an excellent source of protein and supplies 10 essential nutrients, including B-vitamins, zinc, and iron that support an active and healthy lifestyle. Thousands of people—from cattle producers and feed manufacturers to equipment dealers and food marketers—play a role in bringing beef from pasture to plate.

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets works hard to promote New York’s beef industry and connect producers to new markets. Additionally, the Department supports beef producers across the state through a variety of programs, like the Farm-to-School program, which helps connect producers with local schools, and Nourish New York, which brings New York foods to those in need through New York’s network of emergency food providers.

Additionally, the beef industry is part of the NYS Grown & Certified program. 86 beef producers are now in the program, with eight of those joining this year. NYS Grown & Certified promotes New York’s agricultural producers and growers who adhere to food safety and environmental sustainability standards.

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 state fair in the United States, and the third largest fair in the country. The Fair runs now through Monday, September 2.

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, and follow the fun on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Guests are invited to see photos from the Fair on Flickr and ideas are always welcome. New Yorkers are encouraged to send suggestions via email to statefairideas@agriculture.ny.gov.

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