Home > Guest Info > Special Events & Days

Special Events & Days

Daily Firefighter Honoree

The Firefighter Honoree Ceremony will showcase one firefighter of any rank (including junior firefighters) each of the twelve days of the Fair during a 6pm ceremony outside the Firemen’s Building. The individuals selected for this honor best exemplify the positive characteristics of a member of the fire service with a notable record of service and achievements.
Nominations are being accepted now-July 15.
Nominate a Firefighter Honoree

Recognizing firefighters whose courage and commitment make a lasting impact on our community. View the honorees who have been celebrated through this special ceremony over the years.

Past Honorees

Sponsored by

Daily Flag Retreat Ceremony

Men dressed in Army uniforms folding the American Flag

The 186th Erie County Fair will honor Veterans and Active Military during its daily flag retreat ceremony at Slade Park. Now in its eighth year, this patriotic tradition will begin on Wednesday, August 12th at 6:30pm and continuing each evening during the 12-day run of the Fair.

Nominations are being accepted now-July 15, 2026.
Nominate a Flag Retreat Honoree

Honoring individuals who have served our nation with dedication, pride, and patriotism.
Explore past recipients recognized through this daily Fair tradition.

Past Honorees

Sponsored by

SENSORY HOURS - Thursday, August 13

On Thursday, August 13, between the hours of 11:00am and 2:00pm, sensory friendly hours have been designed for people who might find the typical fair visit too much to handle, both kids and adults. A more toned down version of the Erie County Fair where the rides will run with no flashing lights, music, or microphones and lights and the volume on the PA announcements will be turned down.

Sensory Room Available All Fair: The Sensory Room, located on the first level of the Security Building, will offer a chance for families to escape to a sensory-friendly environment that looks to soothe and comfort a person who may be overwhelmed. The equipment and materials available in this new area were provided by our partners at Southtowns Audio Video, Shanor Electric Supplies; a division of NOCO, and Mattress Firm. The Sensory Room will be open during regular operating hours of the fair, closing at 10:00pm daily.

FIREFIGHTERS DAY - Friday, August 14

Join us as we celebrate the brave men and women!
Admission is free for Firefighters and Auxiliary Members with proper ID. No ticket needed.

• Each Firefighter and Auxiliary Member who attends the Fair under the free admission policy on this day, will receive a $10 voucher at the gate to be used towards food/beverage at any concession stand OR towards wristband/tickets for rides on the Strates Shows Midway. The voucher will only be accepted on Firefighters day, Friday, August 14th.

Schedule of Events

• Service at the Firemen's Building - Time: 7:00pm

Firefighters Day Sponsored By

VETERANS DAY - Sunday, August 16

Join us for our Veterans Day Celebration at the Erie County Fair!

Admission is free for Veterans, Active Military and Auxiliary Members with proper ID. No ticket needed.

• Each Veteran Active Military and Auxiliary Member who attends the Fair under the free admission policy on this day, will receive a $10 voucher at the gate to be used towards food/beverage at any concession stand OR towards tickets for rides on the Strates Shows Midway. The voucher will only be accepted on Veterans day, Sunday, August 16th.

Schedule of Events

Mass - Family Entertainment Complex - Time: 12:00pm
Veterans Recognition Service at Veterans Park (Located in the Infield) - Time: 1:30pm

Veterans Day Sponsored By

TASTE OF THE FAIR - Monday, August 17

The Taste of the Fair happens one day only where food vendors will be offering a select menu item for just $3.00!
Check back for a list of participating vendors.

SENIOR DAY - Tuesday, August 18

$12 admission for those ages 62 and over with ID. Only available at the gate and must be redeemed that day.
A 20% savings from 2025!

FAIRTACULAR SHOPPER'S DAY - Tuesday, August 18

On Fairtacular Shopper’s Day, a majority of retail vendors will offer special discounts throughout the grounds.
Check back for a list of participating vendors.

FAIR BEAR'S BIRTHDAY - Tuesday, August 18

Come join us to celebrate Fair Bear's Birthday with a special appearance by our very own Erie County Fair All-Star Band presented by Pepsi.
Location: Outside Fair Bear's Farmland
Time: 3:30pm

Sponsored by

KIDS CULTIVATE - Thursday, August 20

Entering its second year, the Erie County Fair is thrilled to bring back Kids Cultivate, a youth pitch competition inviting ages 5–21 to share creative business ideas that support the future of agriculture. Come watch their pitches live at the Fair!
Location: Cornerstone Avenue of Flags Stage
Time: 4:30pm