We’re less than three weeks from the start of the 2014 New York State Fair, so it’s time to start planning your itinerary.

Today the attractions and events tab appeared on the website and we got confirmation that juggling maniac Hilby will be back as will the dazzling monarch butterfly garden (shown in a photo from the Fair’s website). Of course not every attraction is listed, so we’ll have to wait until opening day to look for other favorites.

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We were horrified to discover that one of this year’s marquee exhibits, Discover the Dinosaurs, carries a $5 admission charge. In recent years, most of the attractions on the grounds have been free of charge. That includes a multitude of animal acts, the stunt-type shows, log-carvers, circus acts, historic stuff like the Elvis memorabilia and various president-related exhibits as well as off-the-wall stuff like Toothpick City.

We’re not seeing admission charges listed for this year’s other new arrivals, so we’re hoping the dinosaurs aren’t leading to the extinction of free entertainment. The plethora of free attractions that comes with admission to the Fair has always been its strength, so this causes concern, not only because there’s a charge to see these reptiles, but at $5, it’s pretty significant, especially in comparison to the advance-sale price of $6 to push through the turnstiles. There’s no mention of a family charge or reduced children’s prices, but we’re hoping those are in place.

One new event we didn’t see listed will treat car enthusiasts and baby boomers to a close encounter with some classic Ford Mustangs, among the most beloved sports cars ever made. The 50th anniversary display, presented by the Mustang Club of America, is sure to spark happy memories of high school proms, Beach Boys music, road trips and drive-ins.

The Hound will check on the new attractions when the gates open and we’ll let you know what to expect and how to save money on your day at the Fair. As you get ready, we recommend that you scroll through the events and attractions list on the website, nysfair.org, found under the “your visit” tab.