The Erie County Fair is continuing the Home Cider Making Competition partnering with BlackBird Cider Works!
Home cider hobbyists from across New York State may submit their cider for judging in the Erie County Fair’s Cider Competition. The annual summer release of a limited run, craft cider that is based on the winning brew has become an anticipated tradition at the Erie County Fair for cider lovers!
The deadline to enter is May 4 by Noon. In addition to the opportunity to win a gold medal for excellence, the Erie County Fair Cider Competition’s Best of Show** entry will be professionally made, canned, and named the 2026 “Erie County Fair Best of Show Cider.” It will also be on tap at the 186th Erie County Fair!
**The 2026 Erie County Fair Cider Making Competition winner will be based on creativity of a summertime refresher. The “Best of Show” cider main judging criteria will be “creative relevancy” for the most fun cider to enjoy while being at the fair. The winning recipe for this contest will be commercially made, on tap at the Fair and will be canned for sale at local retail locations.
*Limited run of the winning cider assuming:
1. The cider can be made under 7 pct abv.
2. The recipe for the cider can be easily approved by the TTB and the NYS Liquor Authority.
