The 4H Dairy Show is one of the Fair’s highlights.
There’s plenty to do at any county fair, but it’s the classic, long-standing traditions that make the experience at the Columbia County Fair so special. Think of it as your go-to place for old-fashion fun!
The popular Talent Show kicks off the week at the North Gate Stage at 1:00PM. The competition showcases the best that the county’s performers have to offer. Contestants of all ages will dance, sing, play, and amaze their audiences with inspiring routines. Cash, trophies, and ribbons will be awarded after the Finals at 7:00PM. One overall winner will be honored with the Marilyn Barry Memorial Award. Sponsored by Kneller Insurance.
And who doesn’t love a parade?! Saturday’s Firefighter’s Parade is a long-standing tradition that is not to be missed. Come show your support of our proud volunteer Firefighters and Auxiliaries when they step off at noon. The parade winds through the Village of Chatham and then through the Fairgrounds. Sponsored by A. Colarusso and Son, Inc. and Stewart’s Shops.
Since 1899, the Ghent Band has been one of the county’s most beloved treasures. Don’t miss their annual appearance on the North Gate Stage this Labor Day, Monday September 5, at 10:00AM where they will offer up a program of marches, show tunes, patriotic songs, and overtures.
Amusements of America’s Midway offers rides and classic carnival games for all ages. Whether you prefer your fun under a sunny sky or glittering lights, there is excitement to be found all day, every day. Special ride passes at $20 Wednesday and Monday and $25 all other days are available from noon through closing at the ride ticket booth near the Cattle Area.
It’s the focus on agriculture and the county’s kids and farm families that give this Fair its authenticity. Thanks to a cadre of skilled adult volunteers of the Cornell Cooperative Extension, an active 4H program offers youth from Columbia and Greene counties a diverse selection of programs to participate in. Take in the exhibits of club creations and produce in Columbia Hall and then head for the Show Ring to see these kids show their livestock on Friday and Saturday. Cow Chip Bingo anyone? Be at there at 5:00PM on Saturday!
The Dairy Cattle Show, sponsored by Carolina-Eastern Vail, Inc. and Country Life Real Estate takes place on Saturday, September 3 at 10:00AM. Del’s Plumbing and Heating and A/C, Inc. are proud to bring you the Beef Cattle Show Thursday, September 1, at 1:00PM.
And there’s more: daily demonstrations in the Oxen Tent, more than two dozen breeds of sheep in the Open Sheep Show, and 4H Swine Show, Costume Class, Goat Show and Master Livestock Showperson Competition. Don’t miss the rabbits and a wide variety of birds in the Poultry Building!
Milkshakes, pepperoni sandwiches, french fries, fried dough! It’s rumored that some people come to the Fair just for the food! Whatever your passion, the Fair’s food concessions never disappoint. Come check out what this year’s vendors – old faves as well as exciting newcomers – are rustling up.
Competitive eaters will want to consider entering the Watermelon and Ice Cream Eating Contests sponsored by Stewart’s Shops, Thursday and Friday respectively, at noon at the North Gate Stage.
All this and a strolling barbershop quartet!
The 181st Columbia County Fair is located off Route 66 in Chatham, New York. Opening day is Wednesday, August 31, at noon. The Fair – “always runs over Labor Day”, and concludes on Monday, September 5. General Admission is $12 and includes parking and all entertainment. Daily hours are Wednesday: noon to 11PM, Thursday – Monday: 10AM – 11PM. Seniors Day and Veterans Day is Wednesday with special pricing for $5.00 for ALL patrons. Youth under 18 admitted free that day until 4PM. Children 12 and under are always free.
Advance admission tickets may be purchased for $10 at Price Chopper or any branch of the Bank of Greene County August 1-31, and are also available by mail. Check the Fair’s website for details and a downloadable order form.