207th Schaghticoke Fair

The Schaghticoke Fair, celebrating its 207th edition, is a long-standing tradition in Rensselaer County, New York, running from Wednesday, September 2, to Monday, September 7, 2026. Originating in 1819 by local farmers to exhibit crops and livestock, the fair continues its agricultural focus with extensive displays, judging for food, vegetables, flowers, and arts and crafts. Local 4-H students actively participate in horse and livestock shows and competitions, reinforcing the fair's commitment to agricultural education and community roots.

Attendees can enjoy a wide array of entertainment, including carnival rides, with a notable new "AI" ride that features complex spinning, flipping, dropping, and tilting motions. Motorsports are a nightly highlight, featuring thrilling tractor pulls, monster truck shows, and popular demolition derbies. The fair also hosts a circus, a butterfly encounter, and a dedicated Kiddie Land area, catering to all ages.

Live music is a major attraction, with country stars Braxton Keith and Chris Cagle headlining, complemented by performances from various local artists. To enhance the visitor experience, the fair introduced "The Navigator," a QR code-accessible platform providing a mobile map, daily schedules, and vendor information without requiring an app download. This event is a significant community gathering, drawing approximately 90,000 visitors annually, and is widely regarded as the "official end of summer" celebration in the region.