Don't Miss: The New York State Fair 2017

SYRACUSE, NY—What’s new at the New York State Fair? Quite a few things. Like a daily demonstration of rappelling techniques at the new New York State Police Exhibit. And who can resist the slogan "I Fish New York."

The 2017 Great New York State Fair started Aug. 23 and runs through Sept. 4, 2017. And it's worth making a trek to Syracuse! The state fair has a lot more to offer this year, including new events, activities, and entertainment. Visitors may notice some of the enhancements as soon as they walk through the new main gate.

"The days of the 'same-old, same-old' State Fair are over, there is new energy in every corner of the Fairgrounds," said Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo in a press release.

Two new elements debut this year. The New York State Police Exhibit, one of the fair’s most popular stops, has moved to a new home near the Horticulture Building. Renovations include a new steel tower that Troopers will use for their daily demonstrations of building rappelling techniques. Inside one of the buildings, fair-goers can use a simulator that demonstrates the dangers of texting while driving. There’s a forensic crime scene area, as well as a Wall of Honor to fallen Troopers and a place to sign up for the Trooper exam.

In the Indian Village, a new Turtle Mound becomes the home of the traditional dances that take place three times daily.

Family Fishing Day and "I Fish New York"

August 27, the day dedicated to fishing in New York State, begins with a tournament on Onondaga Lake. "I Fish New York" features members of Bass Anglers Sportsman Society chapters competing for the biggest catch from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. Also, the Department of Environmental Conservation will host a free fishing experience from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the New York Experience Area.

That day admission to the Fair is free for those who show a valid sporting license at the gate. Anyone who buys a sporting license at the fair will be automatically entered into a random drawing to win a Great New York State Fair lifetime pass.

Timber Sports and Forestry Day

The Sept. 2 event in the New York Experience Area highlights the state's forestry industry. A draft horse demonstration begins the day at 10:30 a.m. Collegiate timber sports teams from SUNY-ESF, SUNY Morrisville and Paul Smiths College will compete in events including crosscut and bow-saw, axe throw, underhand chop, logrolling, and speed climbing. Young people can explore careers in forestry.

Women's Suffrage Centennial Exhibit

An exhibit celebrating women winning the right to vote can be found at the Fair in the Art & Home Center. The exhibit features the traveling panels of the New York State Museum's upcoming exhibit, "Votes For Women: Celebrating New York's Suffrage Centennial," along with panels profiling leaders of the suffrage movement.

On Women's Day, August 30, Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul will keynote the annual Women's Day luncheon. A reservation is required for the luncheon and seating is limited. For more information, call 315-487-7711 ext. 1265.

A reenactor portraying Susan B. Anthony will lead a parade at 6 p.m. that day. Members of New York State Girl Scout troops will participate. The Fair offers free admission to any Girl Scout and troop leader for Women's Day. Troop leaders in the NYPENN Pathways Council can call 1-800-943-4414 ext. 2093 to receive tickets.

Wade Shows Midway

The Broadway Skyliner chairlift ride makes its debut at the Wade Shows Midway. The Skyliner will lift riders approximately 34 feet in the air and take them on a seven-minute, 1,400-foot ride from one end of the Midway to the other.

Also among the new attractions this year is the Fair's first-ever water ride. The White Water flume ride will take riders down two water slides to enjoy splashes of cooling water.

The home of the Great New York State Fair is a 375-acre exhibit and entertainment complex that operates all year.