The 2022 New York State Fair was something of a reunion for those who present the Fair and those who attend, with many–though certainly not all–popular vendors and exhibitors back and fans coming out in good-enough numbers to call it a successful return to almost normal. 
Highlights included the fascinating World of Horses barn, the poolside antics of Sea Lion Splash, the daring Highlight Pro Women’s Skydiving Team, the return of most livestock and a sprinkling of good concerts in an overall drab lineup.
Familiar favorites included the historic and exciting Iroquois Village, five parades down Broadway, a somewhat less-elaborate-than-usual sand sculpture, the fantastic Hawk Creek Birds of Prey show, Circus Hollywood and the inimitable Hilby. Throw in the Strolling Piano, Bandoloni, a timely butter sculpture, magician Steve Trash and Mighty Mike and no one could say they didn’t get their three bucks worth.
Tours of the Agriculture Museum and State Fair History Exhibit never get old. The highly-touted NYS Energy exhibit and the Skilled Trades and the Manufacturing display lacked Fairworthy dazzle, but made use of large building space while appealing to a limited segment of visitors. Talent Showcase, model trains and 4-H horse competitions were missed.
Mostly-decent, though widely varied, weather conditions and generally well-controlled traffic made attending easy. 
Some prices were higher, reflecting the trend outside the Fairgrounds, but some were consistent with past years. Great food and and drink never disappoints.
Overall, Sean Hennessey’s first Fair at the helm was a triumph and a tribute to the impressive team that stages New York’s greatest event year-after-year.
There’s much more to say in review and plenty of ideas for the future–all coming up in future posts on State Fair Hound. But first, we all need some rest.
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