With the beginning of summer fast approaching, fans of the New York State Fair can start counting down to opening day, now 10 weeks away.

The date will be Aug. 21 and you’ll be welcomed with another parking fee increase, now $12. If that means better service, improved access and smoother lot conditions, we won’t mind.

There hasn’t been much publicized about the plans for this year in terms of features that will be part of the ’24 Fair. We’re sure hoping that the overall entertainment agenda will be much more inspired than the lineup of musical (?) acts scheduled for Chevrolet Court and Hip Hop Hell (official name Suburban Park).

It shouldn’t be long before we know about featured shows and exhibits, which may include robotic dinosaurs, sea lions, a circus and return engagements for escape artist Lady Houdini and juggling phenom Groovy Guy. Likely highlights include the inimitable Hilby, the rockin’ Bandoloni and high-flying Hawk Creek birds of prey, which customers ranked as their favorite Fairgrounds entertainment in a recent survey.

A few new acts would be great to go along with such annual favorites as the fabulous Iroquois Village, barns stocked with gorgeous farm animals, historical displays and midway thrills. Despite the recent departure of several beloved food vendors, there are plenty of great eats on the menu.

Tickets, at the increased price of $8 plus service fees for adults, should go on sale soon.