Every day is horse day at the New York State Fair as the graceful, four-legged beauties are ever-present with the International Horse Show and numerous events scheduled most days in the Coliseum. 
They no doubt rival cows as fan favorites when it comes to livestock.
Although hundreds of horses make Fair appearances, it can be difficult to get a close-up visit with horses on the grounds. Like many equine fans, State Fair Hound always tries to get into the main horse barn, but it’s usually closed to the general public, we’re told due to liability concerns. Very frustrating.
One effective workaround on this restriction is to make a trip to the 4-H stables and show rings–known as Silver Spurs Arena–at the western end of the grounds. There seems to be a less restricted, more visitor-friendly vibe there, so horse fans can get some good photos and an occasional pat on the neck as a reward for making the trek. Some of the aging structures were demolished in recent years, but there should be enough horses around to charm visitors.
The youthful riders there bring great enthusiasm and commitment to their competition, so the 4-H area is an all-around positive experience. Visitors can view events from ringside bleachers or stroll the grounds and stables to get their horse-viewing fix. Irresistibly adorable miniature horses made their appearances in Silver Spurs Arena Thursday and they’re delightful. They’re riderless, of course, but they do pull buggies and jump fences and often accept gentle petting. Add it to your agenda for next year.
Horses and riders often warm up in the covered exercise ring next to the Coliseum, providing a close-up view as they gallop around. The open-air corral just west of the horse barn is another spot for workouts, allowing the equine paparazzi some access.
Arriving early on any day of the Fair will offer opportunities to observe ranchers and handlers walking their steeds around the grounds, bathing them at one of the specially-designed pads or exercising them in the cool of the morning.
Unfortunately, the terrific World of Horses exhibit didn’t return this year to the mini-barn along Sioux Ave. near gate four, that has been utilized for many different horse projects over the years. There is, however, a program underway that allows visitors to interact with select, people-friendly horses in that stable.
The International Horse Show includes many thrilling events, so be sure to check the Fair schedule and pull up a bleacher seat in the Coliseum for one or two.
Disconnected
You have to think back quite a few years to remember seeing people on the Fairgrounds dropping a coin into a pay phone in order to call for a ride, check on the family at home or connect with people at the office. 
Today, like everywhere else, the cell phone rules the State Fair world.
But why? When you think of all the Fair represents, it’s puzzling that so many tourists stare at that damn screen rather than savor the fabulous Fair. True, you can view the Fair website on the internet, but if you’re planning after you’ve arrived, you’re already behind.
Most tech-addicted people just can’t seem to look away or stash their phones. If they can’t do it at the Fair, there may be no hope for them.
Look up, folks!
