The massive Exposition Center that opened on the grounds of the New York State Fair in 2018 has proven a major success with off-season bookings of a wide variety of events and shows. It certainly appears to be well on its way to justifying the $62 million cost of construction. As the largest venue of its kind in this region of the US, it has consistently attracted promoters who need the versatility and wide open spaces it provides. This weekend, for instance, the annual alpaca show will move in for Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Meanwhile, Fair planners are still experimenting with how to use it during the 13-day Fair run, this year laying out a turf field for soccer and lacrosse where the ice rink had been in its debut season.

As noted in earlier posts, it’s also a popular respite from hot or rainy weather and a comfortable resting spot for tired Fair visitors. But there must be a way to take advantage of its cavernous size and versatility beyond what’s been done so far.

It would be a nice spot for the Coronas Circus, currently performed under the traditional, but often unbearably hot, big top. But Fair brass is reluctant to bring in a lot of animals, who undoubtedly would do what animals do, in the nice clean hall.

It would seems that a performance venue of some sort would be the logical choice. Maybe it’s just a matter of finding the right act(s).

Meanwhile, it’s been announced that the Winter Fair event that debuted successfully last year will return Feb 7 through 9 with rides, food and entertainment. Watch for details in coming weeks.

By the way, if you go to see the alpacas on Saturday, stop by and lend your support to the Spay it Forward event in the Science and Industry Building. It’s great chance to help out needy animals in a fun way.