According to longstanding tradition, the New York State Fair has designated the first Monday and Tuesday each year senior days. But days six and seven this year weren’t, perhaps because golden-agers over 65 years are being admitted free every day of the Fair. 
The absence of special senior days at the Fair isn’t surprising as recently they seemed to hold less significance than they did in years gone by.
Going back decades, senior days at Chevy Court featured seasoned performers from years past, going back to Debbie Reynolds, the Statler Brothers, James Darren, Al Martino, Neil Sedaka, Rosemary Clooney, the Bowser oldies show and Lawrence Welk cast members. More recently, a classic country (remember when the Fair had classic country?) revue from the famed Grand Ole Opry appeared on the stage at Chevy Court. Senior-friendly concerts were a tradition to which Marketing Director Joe LaGuardia held allegiance. 
Conversely, the incompetent agency that currently books acts at Chevy Court apparently didn’t get the memo that senior-favored acts fill the benches year-after-year, although the return of Herman’s Hermits (Tuesday at 1 p.m.) is a good, though unimaginative, choice.
When meal time comes, gray-haired fans are likely to notice that such State Fair classic food vendors as the Grange Ox Roast, Baker’s Chicken Coop and Gianelli are missing and certainly missed. 
Senior patrons who flocked to the now-missing stands, will have to adjust and there are certainly still many tasty choices for Fair meals. The Eatery Building remains a retiree-friendly dining destination.
If free admission leads us to regard every day as senior day, there are no doubt plenty of events, exhibits and treats for the over-60 crowd to enjoy whenever they come. For instance, such beloved favorite bargains as buck-a-spud potatoes and fresh milk–white chocolate and maybe even strawberry–are still present and very popular. Watch for additional daily specials to further stretch your funds.
One difference from days of yore that shouldn’t be overlooked is that there is considerably more walkable space within the grounds since demolition of the grandstand and paving over of the ground once occupied by the track and infield.
As Hound readers know, planning ahead is always recommended before pulling into a State Fair parking lot and that’s especially true for anyone who’s looking to conserve energy, regardless of age. Thus, seniors would generally be advised to avoid the massive middle ground–which is mostly rides and kids’ stuff–in order to avoid exhaustion, which can certainly make a day at the Fair less enjoyable.
Prioritize your favorite attractions, plan some rest time and keep in mind that you can always come back another day for free–or $3–admission. 
Monday is designated Law Enforcement Day so any current or retired police officer can gain free admission by flashing a badge. A parade in their honor down Broadway starts at 6 p.m.
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