Hamburg, N.Y. (WBEN) - When the Erie County Fair begins next month, organizers say it should be a more affordable visit than last year.
Fair management announced what they're calling a "Value Strategy" on Tuesday, in response to recent complaints about rising prices.
"It stemmed from the post event surveys that we do," said Erie County Fair CEO Jessica Underberg.
"Over the last couple of years, we heard some chatter about pricing, that it's expensive. Last year, we heard it from our vendors, saying, 'We are hearing from your guests that it's expensive.' For me, that was the piece that was like, 'OK, now our vendors are telling us too.'"
This year, Fair admission will be $2-to-$4 cheaper than in 2025, depending on when tickets are purchased. That averages out to about 12% less this year.
Several admission options have been reduced for 2026, including:
- Advance Sale Admission: $15 (fees included) - an 11.8% savings from 2025.
- Regular Admission: $19 (fees included) - a 16% savings from 2025.
- New Early Bird Admission: $16 when purchased and redeemed at the gate between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
- Children 12-and-under continue to receive free admission when accompanied by a responsible adult
- Parking will continue to be free
Underberg also says there will be a new requirement for food vendors to offer, at least, one item for under $7.
“Food is the No. 1 reason guests attend the Fair,” she noted. “We also know that it is one of the biggest expenses for families. That is why we worked with concessionaires to offer different price points so guests can enjoy the Fair’s food tradition in a way that fits their budget.”
Fairgoers also continue to have the option of bringing their own food and non-alcoholic beverages onto the grounds. Guests may bring coolers, giving families additional flexibility in managing the cost of a day at the Fair.
The Fair also worked with Strates Shows to create new opportunities for families to save on Midway rides. New ride offers include:
- $2 Rides Day on Thursday, Aug. 13, when all Strates Shows Midway rides will be just $2 each
- Sunday Matinee Pay-One-Price Wristband on Aug. 16 and Aug. 23, offering unlimited rides from 12 p.m.-to-5 p.m. for just $30.
The Fair will also continue to offer advance-sale weekday Ride-All-Day Wristbands for $35 and the popular 120-credit Fun Card for $50. The Fun Card can be shared among family and friends, providing additional flexibility and value. Both are available for purchase before the Fair at ECFair.org.
The Fair will lower admission prices and provide new savings opportunities to reduce the average family cost by 12%
The Fair will lower admission prices and provide new savings opportunities to reduce the average family cost by 12%
