FAQs
Is Erie County Fair affiliated with Erie County government?
No, we are not. The Erie County Agricultural Society is a not-for-profit, 501(c)3 organization. The name using Erie County was given after the Agricultural Society spun off of the Niagara County Agricultural Society in the mid 1800’s. The Society does not receive any county funds. The ECAS is the oldest membership organization in Western New York.
What are the Fair hours of operation?
Gates are open daily from 9am – 10:30pm, buildings are open from 10am – 10m and the Midway operates from 11am – 11pm. Wednesday, August 10, gates, buildings and midway will open at 2pm.
When is Opening Day this year?
Wednesday - August 8, 2012; Gates open at 2:00pm
What are the Fair dates?
August 8-19, 2012
What are Gate Prices?
Adults $10
Seniors (60+) $7
Children 12 and under FREE
What is the price of parking?
$5
How do I buy Grandstand tickets?
Stay tuned for concert and motor event announcements. You will be able to purchase your tickets online at Tickets.com, the Event Center Box Office or charge by phone at 1-888-223-6000.
Tickets purchased in advance for all concerts and grandstand events include FREE admission to the fair the day of the show. Grandstand ticket must be presented to ticket taker at admission gate to be eligible for free admission to the Fair on the day of the show for ticket holder.
Does my Grandstand ticket include admission to the Fair?
Yes. Grandstand ticket must be presented to ticket taker at admission gate to be eligible for free admission to the Fair on the day of the show for ticket holder.
How much does it cost to rent electric carts, wheelchairs, strollers and wagons?
Electric carts are $50, wheelchairs are $15, wagons are $13 and strollers are $9 to rent for the day, cash only. NEW POLICY: Rentals are available on a first-come first-serve basis at Gate #2 (enter off of McKinley Parkway), Gate #5 (enter off Clark Street) and Gate #4 (enter off South Park Ave - Rte. 62).
Are coolers allowed on The Fairgrounds?
Yes, as long as they do not contain glass bottles or alcohol.
How many credits do the rides take?
Each ride averages 2-5 credits. Individual ride credits cost $1 each.
Are cameras allowed into concerts?
Cameras are allowed as long as they are not professional cameras with a telephoto lens. Video recording equipment is not allowed.
What time do grandstand gates open before a concert?
Approximately an hour and a half before the concert/event is scheduled to begin. Please call 716-649-3900 ext. 404 to confirm for each event.
How do I get vendor space for the Fair to sell merchandise or distribute information?
Download an application here and submit to concessions1@ecfair.org for consideration.
How do I enter an exhibit in competition at the Fair?
Entry information will be available online in the beginning of May. For more information regarding the Competitive Exhibits Department please call 716-649-3900 ext. 407.
Are pets allowed on The Fairgrounds?
No, pets are not allowed on The Fairgrounds.
Are group ticket sales available?
Yes. Please contact The Fairgrounds at 716-649-3900 ext. 403.
What happens if my child gets lost?
A Lost Children area is located in the upper level of the 4-H Youth Development Building.
Where do you find medical attention at the Fair?
The First Aid Station is located in the rear of The Mall building near Hickory Tree Park.
Is Canadian Money Exchange available?
Yes, at the Time Warner Cable Ticket Office located behind the Grandstand from between the hours of 9am – 8pm only during the dates of the Erie County Fair.
Where are ATMs located on the Fairgrounds?
Inside both lobbies of the Event Center, outside the Carousel Room, Hamburg Casino, Kiddieland near the Exhibit Dome, Food Court, East Grandstand, inside all gates, and the Marketplace.
Are there automotive services available on the Fairgrounds?
Ask a gate supervisor for help or call Fair Security at 649-3900 ext. 234. Services provided by On the Go Towing.
Are Tram Services available?
Tram Services are available from 11am – 7 pm for $.25 per person. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the WNY Shriners. Tram stops are located at the Family Entertainment Dome, Gates #1, #1A, #6, the Indian Village, Livestock Arena and in front of the new Showplace building. Due to heavy pedestrian traffic, Tram Service may be interrupted without notice.
Is Hamburg Casino open their regular hours during the Fairs?
Absolutely! The Casino is open during the regular hours of operation, 9am-4am throughout the Fair.
Do I have to pay a fair admission if I’m going to the Casino?
Yes. We encourage you to take in the wonderful Fair entertainment and exhibits before or after you visit to the Gaming facility.
Where can I park if I am going to the Casino during the Fair?
We recommend that you park in any lot located on The Fairgrounds.
What Non-Fair events are happening on the Fairgrounds?
Visit www.the-fairgrounds.com to see a Calendar of Events happening year-round on the Fairgrounds.
