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2025 Local & Regional Summer Fairs Near Albany, NY

Every summer, there are many fun-filled local and county fairs near Albany, NY, that are perfect for Capital Region visitors. Get a breakdown on these annual events and what you can expect at them, such as rides, shows, games, food, music, and more.

Schoharie County Sunshine Fair

people walking a fair with lit up attractions at night
Photo provided by Schoharie County Sunshine Fair

Enjoy the sunshine and festivities at the Schoharie County Sunshine Fair! From thrilling rides to tractor pulls, animal shows, a miniature circus, and much more, there will be endless entertainment each day of the event. There are also special contests to check out, such as the Ugliest Cake Contest, a unique spin on a cake decorating competition.

Altamont Fair

aerial view of a ferris wheel and fair attractions at night

The Altamont Fair features attractions like carnival rides, a Royal Hannaford Circus, racing pigs, Lucky E Rodeo and wrestling, and a demolition derby on the final day. For something extra special, make sure to attend the sea lion show, free with admission! At the event, fairgoers will be able to watch sea lions do tricks, and learn a lot about the beloved species.

Washington County Fair

people at a fair watching a demo derby event

The Washington County Fair schedule is packed full of live music and events like the "Region's Got Talent" show, the always popular demolition derby, tractor pulls, Zultar the fortune teller, pig racing, carnival rides, and more. Bring the whole family out for a day of fun!

New York State Fair

racing pigs

Up for a full day trip? Hop in the car and head to the iconic New York State Fair this summer at the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse, just over two hours from Albany. Each year, the New York State Fair offers unforgettable attractions for the entire family, including numerous concerts, carnival rides, tasty food, eye-opening exhibits, and more.

Columbia County Fair

fair rides and tents at night
Photo provided by Columbia County Fair

Don’t miss the Columbia County Fair, which offers a wide variety of entertainment, including live music, magicians, a demolition derby, farm animal competitions, eating contests, carnival rides, and more. Try your hand at the ice cream eating event!

The Great Schaghticoke Fair

fried dough

The Great Schaghticoke Fair typically features a special musical guest - Flo Rida has performed int he past! And other entertainment includes circus, a stingray exhibit, motorsports, a dog show, and more.

Capital District Scottish Games

people dressed in kilts for a scottish parade
Photo Credit: Marcie Stoffer, provided by Capital District Scottish Games

This isn’t a county fair, but it is an event at the Altamont Fairgrounds! The Scottish Games features a variety of activities such as Highland dancing and athletics, a Scottish breed dog show, bands, events for the kids, and more. You can also enter competitions like the pipe band contest, drumming, and Highland dance. 

Saratoga County Fair

people walking around a county fair

Since 1841, the annual Saratoga County Fair has celebrated the region’s agricultural industry while entertaining visitors with attractions and activities. This fair promises a fun-filled week for the entire family with a variety of attractions and activities, including the Amusements of America Carnival, the 4-H shows, vendors, truck and tractor pulls, demonstrations, and more. Also check out Niagara Down Under, to hang out with a whole bunch of kangaroos and wallabies.

There are plenty of opportunities this summer to visit a fair in the Capital Region. Make your plans today!

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About the Author: Marissa Carr My name is Marissa and I am a content marketing intern from Schenectady New York. I am a rising Junior in college studying public relations. Some places I like to go around the Capital Region include the Great Escape, Druthers, Brown's Beach, SPAC, Cantina, and Crossgates Mall.
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