The Erie County Fair kicks off today, August 6, 2025, at the Hamburg Fairgrounds, setting the stage for twelve days of food, fun, concerts, and family traditions through August 17.
This year’s event marks the 185th edition of one of the largest county fairs in the United States. Opening Day offers free admission for anyone donating four or more canned goods, supporting the region’s largest summer food drive. The fair is putting community at the forefront with its new motto: That Fair Feeling—a theme that blends nostalgia with fresh energy.
Big Names and New Faces Take the Stage
The Grandstand is bringing a mix of chart-topping music, tribute bands, and local stars to the fairgrounds. Tickets are required for some shows but include same-day fair admission. Highlights of this year’s entertainment lineup include:
- Foreigner (August 7)
- Shaggy (August 9)
- Tracy Lawrence (August 10)
- Wyatt Flores & Kashus Culpepper (August 14)
- Free Shows: Everclear, 1964 The Tribute, Let’s Sing Taylor, MJ Live, and more
Visitors can expect music for every age group—from 80s rock and reggae to modern country and tribute acts.
Celebrity Chef Sandra Lee Joins the Fun
A standout addition to the 2025 fair is renowned lifestyle personality Sandra Lee, who is making appearances during the first three days. She’ll lead cookie-decorating sessions, judge food competitions, and engage with fairgoers—bringing a national spotlight to the region’s culinary roots. Her participation reflects the fair’s emphasis on women-led leadership and community values.
New Attractions and Fan-Favorite Events
The fair has rolled out several new experiences to keep regular attendees excited:
- New Food Showdown – A daily competition where visitors can vote on creative fair food items. This year’s contenders include:
- Flaming Hot Cheetos blooming onion
- Buffalo meatballs
- Waffle grilled cheese
- Boom Boom chicken mac
- Bison pickle chips
- Tater Truck Exhibit – A fun and educational journey from farm to table, showcasing the story of the humble potato.
- Barnyard Tales & Balloons – A new interactive family event with farm-themed storytelling and balloon animal fun.
- Growing Aces Competition – A unique local challenge to grow the biggest Hungarian pepper.
- Miniature Midway Display – A 1:87 scale model of the fairgrounds handcrafted by local artists, providing a nostalgic trip for visitors.
Family & Agriculture Attractions
The Erie County Fair remains deeply rooted in its agricultural heritage. Daily activities include:
- Little Hands on the Farm – Kids explore farming through hands-on learning with miniature equipment and mock barns.
- Fair Bear’s Farmland – A creative zone offering crafts and farm education for young fairgoers.
- Breeds 101 – Interactive sessions that teach visitors about various livestock.
- Horse Headquarters – Live horse shows and veterinary demonstrations.
- Harvest Theater – Talks and demos on sustainability, gardening, and food science.
- You Be The Judge – A game where attendees guess livestock show results and win prizes.
Special Days and Deals to Know
Each day of the fair includes themed celebrations, offering special access and savings:
- Opening Day (Aug 6) – Free entry with canned food donation.
- Senior Day (Aug 7) – Discounted admission for guests 62+.
- Firefighters Day (Aug 8) – Free admission and vouchers for first responders.
- Veterans Day (Aug 10) – Free entry and food vouchers for veterans.
- Taste of the Fair (Aug 11) – Sample-sized fair food for just $3.
- Shopper’s Day (Aug 12) – Vendor sales throughout the grounds.
- Double the Fun Day (Aug 13) – Two admissions for $30.
- Thrill Together Day (Aug 14) – Two ride wristbands for $50.
The fair is open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., with midway rides available from noon to 11 p.m. Parking is free and reverse ATMs are located near the main gates for cash conversion.
Safety First
Organizers have ramped up safety procedures this year, especially around midway rides. Ride operators are undergoing extra inspections and security presence has been visibly increased around major gathering zones. First aid stations are available throughout the grounds.
Community and Giving Back
The Erie County Fair is more than just entertainment—it’s a force for good in Western New York. Last year, the fair helped collect over 150,000 pounds of food for local food banks and awarded more than $70,000 in scholarships to students involved in agriculture and youth programs. Its focus on giving back has become a major reason locals continue to support it year after year.
The management team is also celebrating a unique milestone—becoming one of the only major fairs in the U.S. led entirely by women. With CEO Jessica Underberg at the helm, over 90% of the fair’s year-round staff are women, setting an empowering tone for future generations.
Whether you’re here for the funnel cake, the music, the animals, or the unbeatable atmosphere, this year’s fair promises an unforgettable summer experience. What are you most excited about at the 2025 Erie County Fair? Let us know in the comments below!