175th Dutchess County Fair Set To Open

RHINEBECK, NY — Livestock are being washed and groomed, booths are being set up and stocked and plans are being made for the food court.

The 2021 Dutchess County Fair is set to open Tuesday for the 175th time.

After being canceled last year because of the coronavirus pandemic, the fair's six-day run will begin at 10 a.m. Tuesday. The daily schedule through Sunday is 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

All coronavirus guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will be followed. Masks are not required for those who have been vaccinated against COVID-19.

They are, however, recommended indoors in areas of substantial or high transmission of the virus. Dutchess County currently is classified as a high-transmission area by the CDC.

Tickets for admission to the fair — age 12 and up — are $12 plus a $1.50 convenience fee. Ride All Day Wristbands are $25 for presale and $30 as of Tuesday. Individual or multiple ride tickets will be sold at the Midway.

Fair officials said, due to staff shortages, there will be limited person-to-person window sales. There will be checkout kiosks at various gates.

Attendees are encouraged to buy tickets online because long lines are expected.

"Take advantage of buying and printing the ticket at home or on your phone to avoid the lines," said Andy Imperati, president and CEO of the Dutchess County Fairgrounds.

Buy fair tickets online here.

You may print your tickets at home or have them appear on your mobile device.

Among the things to see and do at the Dutchess County Fair are the livestock exhibits, the Agriculture and Dairy Birthing Tent, Dock Dogs competition, farming equipment displays, New York State Police Dive Tank, roving entertainment and chowing down at the Food Mall.

Grandstand entertainment will be free with admission.

The performers include country artist Jimmie Allen, "The Voice's" Ian Flanigan and "American Idol" Season 19 winner Chayce Beckham.

There will also be an antique tractor pull and several Dutchess County Sheriff's K9 demonstrations in the Grandstand.

And, of course, there will be the Midway, featuring carnival rides and games by Powers Great American Midways.

New rides in 2021 include the Giant Spider Gondola Wheel, the F5 Swinging Pendulum ride and Sky Hawk, which towers nearly 100 feet in the air.

We would be remiss if we didn't mention all the foods that Powers will be peddling in the Midway, such as fried Oreos, gyros, cotton candy, fried dough and hot sausage.

Just a few tips to help you plan your trip:

• The Dutchess County Fair is at 6636 Route 9 in Rhinebeck.
• Parking is free; make note of where you parked so you can find your car when you are ready to leave.
• Credit cards are accepted at all admission gates and designated midway ticket booths. ATMs are located throughout the fairgrounds.
• The fair is open rain or shine. Check the forecast to see if you will need an umbrella or sunscreen.
• Bags will be checked at every gate; no weapons allowed.
• Wear comfortable shoes.
• Take a photo of what your child is wearing in case you get separated.
• Pets are not permitted in the fairgrounds, only service animals. DO NOT leave your pet in your vehicle; it's against the law.
• Wheelchair and stroller rentals are available.

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