Tuesday, July 27, 2021
HAMBURG, NEW YORK – The Erie County Fair is proud to announce the new attractions, exhibits and other elements for the 2021 edition of the “Best 12 Days of Summer.” The following is a list of highlighted experiences debuting this year.
ARCY LIVE! LARGE-SCALE STREET ARTIST
Known for his paint splashed style of large scale street art, ARCY has been defining his skills for over a decade. In 2015, ARCY announced his inaugural North American live event mural tour, where he took his skills on the road, spray painting 8′ x 12′ live event walls in front of thousands of onlookers in many of the largest cities across the nation. As he travels the globe, ARCY continues to demonstrate his growing desire to leave his mark wherever he goes, giving back to humanity through public art. ARCY is here to paint the Fairgrounds, find him creating huge pieces throughout the grounds.
CAMEL KINGDOM
Camel Kingdom is here to transform the Fair into a desert oasis with rare Dromedary camels! A fun, one-of-a-kind experience enjoyable for all ages. This exhibit provides fairgoers with an opportunity to get an up-close look at these unique animals and interact with the care experts between shows. This educational and entertaining attraction features snow white and spotted camels. There are less than 5,000 snow white camels and only 1,000 spotted dromedaries in existence. Camel Kingdom features the only touring herd in the world! Camel Kingdom is proudly brought to you by Meyer’s RV Superstore and Renoir. You can find our camel friends at Gate 5.
CHAINSAW CARVER
Nick Smith and his wife Amanda are on a mission to become full-time chainsaw carvers & artists. Their show features speed carving demonstrations creating wood sculptures including; birds, mammals, fish, abstract, bears, eagles, owls, signs, farm equipment, barns, and even cabins. Find Nick and Amanda outside the Showplace building daily from 12:00-2:00, 3:00-5:00, and 6:00-8:00pm.
DOWNBEAT PERCUSSION- THE OFFICIAL DRUMLINE OF THE BUFFALO BILLS
DownBeat Percussion is a highly energetic drum corp. They are the official “Stampede” Drumline for the Buffalo Bills. Listen for the beat and find this drumline with the 20 minute daily shows at 1:30, 2:30, 3:30 & 4:30pm.
FAIR DAY LIVE!
A daily television program originating from the Fair that will provide a daily look at “what’s happening” as well as give viewers an “insiders” look at the Fair’s personalities and attractions. Each morning at 8:30am, the program will be broadcast live on WBBZ-TV (Ch. 67) as well as streamed on Facebook Live. The program will also be available on the Fair’s various social media outlets. Hosted by Liz Mantel. Produced by the Erie County Agricultural Society in partnership with WBBZ-TV. Sponsored by Paula’s Donuts and Milk For Health.
FIREGUY
FireGuy is the number 1 fire-eater in the world, holding the Guinness World Record for the most torches extinguished by fire eating in 60 seconds. His captivating performances include variety tricks and eye-catching visuals with lights props and fire. FireGuy is only here for a limited time, August 17-22 at 12:30, 4:00 & 7:30pm. FireGuy is sponsored by Good Health Saunas.
GARY THE SILENT CLOWN
A long time Fair performer and friend, Gary mimes his way through his routine which includes unicycle riding, juggling, and plenty of audience participation. You can catch Gary at the Evans Bank Family Entertainment Complex, daily at 1:00 & 4:00pm.
HILBY- THE SKINNY GERMAN JUGGLE BOY
Hilby’s show features juggling, balance acts and various other stunts. He is guaranteed to have the whole family laughing– but don’t stand too close or you might end up a part of the show! Follow the laughter to find Hilby at the Evans Bank Family Entertainment Complex, daily at 2:30, 5:30 & 8:30pm.
RETURNING! JOHN CASSIDY, BIZARRE BALLOONOLOGIST
A master of his craft, and a Fair favorite, John Cassidy returns with his comedy and incredible balloon art. Cassidy has held three Guinness World Records for his speed and creativity when it comes to intricate and creative balloon sculptures. Cassidy’s show features a lot of audience participation so keep an eye out for kids with crazy balloon creations walking through the Fair. John is only here for a limited time, August 11-16th on the Avenue of Flags Stage at 3:00 & 9:00pm. This bizarre balloonologist is sponsored by Made in America Store.
JOHN PARK, COMEDY WAITER SHOW
This plate spinner is not a rude waiter. Instead he gets his laughs – as much as any standup comic or comedian – with original comedy routines involving food, drink, music, and more. Eat… See marshmallows become airborne appetizers! Drink… But please don’t spill. That big yellow wet floor sign is unsightly but necessary. The epic water drinking duel is always a crowd favorite! Laugh… The Funny Waiter is very proud to present a classic routine some thought was lost to the ages. Plate Spinning! Nine at once! One of the most exciting finales ever has been given a comedy makeover with non-stop laughs.
Your comedy waiter is only here for a limited time, August 11-16, at 12:30, at 4:00 & 7:30pm. This funny waiter show is sponsored by LeafFilter.
NYA:WEH INDIAN VILLAGE DANCE TROUPE
Celebrate native history and heritage as the Dance Troupe performs traditional dances that honor nature and their ancestors. As the drum beats in time, dancers young and old take to the Turtle Mound dressed in intricately beaded regalia. Watch the social dances daily at 12:00pm, 3:00pm, 6:00pm.
August 21st will host the Smoke Dance Competition from 2:00-7:00pm.
NYS POLICE DEMONSTRATIONS
The New York State Police conduct daily demonstrations including rappelling, K-9, and rollover crashes. The Rappelling Demonstrations are carried out by the Special Operations Response Team (S.O.R.T.) using the 57-foot tower that stands in Slade Park. Fairgoers can find the demonstrations at the New York State Police Building & Repelling Tower at 2:00pm, 4:00pm & 6:00pm.
RAMBLIN LOU FAMILY BAND
Playing in honor of the late Ramblin Lou, his multi-generational Family Band will be performing old time country music. Ramblin Lou was a long time Erie County Fair staple, as well as a Buffalo Broadcasting Hall of Fame inductee, Erie County Fair Hall of Fame inductee and WXRL radio personality. His passing marked the ending of a more than a half century of performances at the Fair. Don’t miss this homage to Ramblin’ Lou August 11-16, and August 19-22nd on the Avenue of Flags Stage at 6:00pm.
SAFARI SAM AND OSCAR THE AWESOME OSTRICH
Watch out for Safari Sam as he rides Oscar the Awesome Ostrich around the fairgrounds. Oscar loves the spotlight and having his picture taken. Look out for your snacks, because Oscar also loves fair food!
SCOTT’S CRAZY MAGIC SHOW
Scott’s Crazy Magic Show is an exciting Illusion Spectacular! This new production features futuristic elements, that capture the attention and imagination of kids from age 2 to 92! Neon, lasers, illusions and even a LIVE ROBOT takes the place of the traditional magician’s assistant. Boys and girls get a front row seat for a chance to float in the air & get divided in half live on stage! See the magic at the Avenue of Flags Stage daily at 2:00, 4:30 & 8:00pm.
SWIFTY SWINE RACING PIGS
Porkers with punny names (Kevin Bacon), get a race number and head to the starting gate. These speedy little guys will run the track in an attempt to capture glory, and snacks. Fairgoers are broken into cheering sections, making Swifty Swine Racing Pigs one of the loudest, craziest, and fastest shows on the Fairgrounds. See the speed in Circusland daily at 1:00, 3:00, 5:00 & 7:00pm. Co-sponsored by Comfort Windows & Doors, Modern Disposal and Cigma Inc.
TOMMY VEE, HYPNOTIST EXTRAORDINAIRE
Prepare to be mesmerized…and have a lot of laughs! Tommy Vee has audiences rolling in the aisles with his unique style of comedy stage hypnosis. Not everyone is going to be an onlooker, audience participants become the stars at this show! Tommy’s show ticks all the boxes – audience engagement, tasteful humor and a compelling performance with plenty of laughs for all ages. Take a seat in the audience or on stage…Tommy Vee’s shows are nothing short of spectacular. Tommy Vee has a limited appearance August 17-22. Be hypnotized on the Avenue of Flags Stage with daily shows at 3:00 pm & 9:00pm.
ULTIMATE STUNT CIRCUS
A world class cast of professional stunt performers bring edge-of-your-seat, gravity-defying thrills to the Ultimate Stunt Circus to debut at the Fair on August 11th. The lineup includes the Wheel of Destiny, Globe of Death, Hire Wire, FMX Motocross, Motorcycle on Wire, and the Human Cannonball. You can find this all new circus in Circusland.
RETURN OF NIGHTLY FIREWORKS
A nightly fireworks spectacular, produced by Skylighters of Western New York, will begin at 9:30pm, weather permitting and will last 10 minutes. The tradition of daily fireworks at the fair was initially inaugurated in 1927 to coincide with the first use of grounds-wide night-time illumination. The nightly Skylighters display is presented by Ch. 2 On Your Side, WGRZ-TV.
DAILY FLAG RETREAT CEREMONY TO HONOR VETS & ACTIVE MILITARY
The 181st Erie County Fair will see the continuation of a daily patriotic tradition that will honor veterans and active military members. Beginning August 11th at 6:30p and continuing each evening during the 12-day run of the Fair, a flag retreat ceremony will be held at Slade Park presented by Made In America Stores. During each 8-10 minute ceremony, participating fairgoers will be asked to join in the Pledge of Allegiance. As a lone bugler sounds retreat, an American flag will be lowered and folded by an honorary honor guard from a local VFW, Amvets or Legion post. The flag, which was flown during that day at the Fair, will be presented to a veteran and/or an active member of the military who will be the “Flag Retreat Honoree of the Day.” The Erie County Fair Marching Band will perform the “Star Spangled Banner,” a chorus of “God Bless America” and the “United States Armed Forces Medley.” Made In America Stores will be donating “made in the USA” flags to be used in the daily presentation.
MOBILE CHARGING STATIONS
Fairgoers will be able to charge their phones at one of six mobile charging stations provided by T-Mobile. Stations will be located at 42nd Street, Outside the Avenue of Flags Brick Bathroom, Agricultural Discovery Building, Event Center, Slade Park
MOBILE GLASS BLOWING STUDIO
Times: Daily 2:00-8:00pm. The mobile glassblowing experience will bring the artistry and education of glass making beyond the studio walls to the 181st Erie County Fair. Fairgoers will experience a multitude of information surrounding the lost art of glassblowing. Glassblowing is an interdisciplinary art form that embodies art, science, math, history, and teamwork. The exhibit will feature daily glassblowing demonstrations where 6-7 sculptures will be created. The Mobile Glass Studio was created by glass artist Ryan Gothrup. Pieces will be on display for silent auction bidding in Creative Arts. All proceeds from the auction will go to the Erie County Agricultural Society Scholarship Fund.
U.S. ARMY MOBILE USABILITY LAB (MULE)
The MULE Semi is an 18-wheel-tractor-trailer that is self- contained and climate controlled. It is an interactive exhibit with state of the art technology. Discover new things about the U.S. Army in the Special Operations Mobile Exhibit. Check out the virtual reality Parachute Simulator, the Oculus Rift VR System, and the Augmented Reality Sand Table. You can also see the AH-6 Flight Simulator and the MOS Career Navigator. The exhibit will also display Soldier & Weapon Displays and the Taste of Liberty.
Boxall’s I Got It*
Get five in a row and you could walk away with a prize. Play this Fair classic Trackside and on 42nd Street.
Nickel City Reptiles & Exotics featuring Jeff Musial*
The best in wildlife education and entertainment. See the critically endangered clouded leopard. Experience these exotic animals on 42nd Street.
Skyriver Butterflies*
The Butterfly Exhibit will provide you the opportunity for up-close interaction with butterflies while learning about their role as pollinators, characteristics of their lifecycles, and our conservation efforts to protect them. The butterflies find a home on the Avenue of Flags. Brought to you by KR Communications.
NEW! Odyssey Axe Throwing*
Get ready to yell “Bullseye!” Throw some axes in this mobile axe throwing trailer. Have some safe, axe-throwing fun on 42nd Street.
*there will be a separate charge for these attractions.
NEW FOOD SHOWDOWN JUDGING
A new twist on the Erie County Fair’s New Food Showdown. On Thursday, August 12th, and on Friday, August 13th at 11:00a, a panel of approximately 10 invited guests will judge the 2021 New Foods Showdown. The judging panel will be comprised of well-known members of the media as well as professional chefs and culinary educators. The “New Food Showdown” showcases our food concessionaire’s culinary delights. We can’t wait to see what innovative food items our vendors have created for our 181st Fair! Judging will take place at each vendor location throughout the two-day period, with the winner announced on Saturday, August 14th. Fairgoers can vote on the best New Food Showdown item in the Fairgrounds Mobile App, August 11th to August 18th.
Discover delicious delights at the Erie County Fair! It’s hard to judge a freshly fried treat against a frozen delight, that’s why we split our New Food Showdown into three categories: New Food, Healthy Option, and Sweets & Treats! Find the best new foods on our list below:
New Food:
- Frozen Peach Lemonade by Jungle Juice Smoothies
Fresh peaches from local farms are blended with lemonade to make a cold and refreshing drink to pair with any fair treat. - Chicken Parm Pot Pie in a Garlic Butter Crust by Salvatores Pizza
A delicious twist on traditional Chicken Parmesan; pasta, seasoned chicken breast and fresh Salvatore’s Homestyle Pasta Sauce are baked in a fresh garlic butter dough crust to create this masterpiece. - Yancy’s Fancy Buffalo Wing Nachos with Chicken by The Big Cheese
The newest way to serve a Buffalo favorite; these cheesy Buffalo style nachos make Yancy’s Fancy Buffalo Wing Cheese as the star of the show, accompanied by mild cheddar cheese sauce and chicken on top of tortilla chips. Spice it up with jalapenos, salsa, and sour cream! - Polish Taco by Babcia’s Pierogi
Stray from the traditional pierogi with grilled smoked kielbasa, caramelized onions, bacon, fresh sauerkraut and sour red cabbage served in a warm naan bread. - Pilgrim Sundae by Joe’s Main Street Butcher Block
Only at the Erie County Fair can you find Thanksgiving dinner in a bowl! Savor roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, corn, gravy and of course some cranberry sauce on top to complete this sundae. - Grand Champion Sandwich by Big G’s Food Service
Get ready to get messy with this sandwich! Brisket, pulled pork, Swiss cheese, jalapeno, and pickles are smothered in BBQ sauce in between a soft bun. - Beer Cheese & Bacon Pickle Chips by Chester’s Gators & Taters
There’s a new deep-fried dish you’ve got to try at the fair; deep fried pickle chips are smothered in beer cheese and topped with bacon and jalapenos to make for the perfect spicy, salty, and tangy treat! - ½ Rack BBQ Ribs by Chiavetta’s Catering Service
Chiavetta’s is a Western New York favorite, but have you tried their ribs? They’re bringing their house smoked dry seasoned ribs, finished over the charcoal grill and topped with “Jonny’s Original” rib sauce. - Shrimp Souvlaki by Venus
Replace chicken with shrimp in this new twist on the class souvlaki. Grilled marinated shrimp is tossed in Greek dressing, placed in a pita and topped with homemade garlic sauce, lettuce, tomatoes, onions and feta cheese. - The Bomb Cob by Crafted Cob
You’ll get a red, white and blue flavor and spice explosion on a big sweet ear of corn rolled in Flaming Hot Cheetos, cotija cheese and blue Takis with a siracha mayo base. - The Big Dill Pickle Pizza by Pizza Amore- The Wood Fire Way
Pickle lovers, get ready for the best new pizza topping! Find a ranch dressing base on this traditional pizza crust, topped with dill pickles, light cheddar and mozzarella cheese, bread crumbs and a drizzle of ranch dressing. - Chicken & Waffle On a Stick by Dirty Bird Chicken N’ Waffles
Everything is better when served on a stick! Hand battered and seasoned friend chicken pieces are skewered between Belgian waffle pieces and topped with homemade Maple Bourbon Butter Syrup.
Sweets & Treats:
- Sugar Waffle Supreme by Piccolo’s Food Concession
A classic fair treat is flipped over in this new food. A sugar waffle is served upside-down, with the hollow side up and filled with cherry topping and doused with whipped cream. - Butter Beer Float by Ohio Dots Dippin Dots
Vanilla Dippin Dots are accompanied by cream soda with hints of butterscotch and brown sugar notes, topped with whipped cream. - Key West, Key Lime Sticky Pig by Polar Bear Ice Cream
Have this sandwich for dessert! Krispy Cream Donuts act as the bread of this sandwich, stuffed with homemade key lime ice cream, dipped in dark chocolate, rolled in crushed graham crackers and smothered in marshmallow and fudge topping, all on a stick! - Samoa Apple by Red’s Red Apples
Apples are getting an upgrade with this treat. A caramel dipped granny smith apple is rolled in roasted coconut and drizzled with chocolate to resemble the famous Girl Scout Cookie. - Sunday Funday by Cheesecake Guy
Did you ever think sundaes could get better? Well, try adding cheesecake! A creamy maple cheesecake is topped with fresh fruit, powdered sugar, maple syrup and candied bacon, all on a warm freshly made waffle.
Healthy Option:
- Spicy Wok-fried Teriyaki Stir-fry with Jasmine Rice by Wok on the Wild Side
Healthy tastes good with wok-fried fresh vegetable cooked in a signature teriyaki sauce on top of a bed of white jasmine rice, topped with fresh white meat chicken breast and a drizzle of spicy siracha sauce. - Miami Shrimp Salad by Atlantic Concessions
Bring the beach to the fair with Miami inspired fresh shrimp salad! Delicious and healthy, find shrimp, tomatoes, avocado, and red onions tossed in a cilantro-lime citrus vinaigrette alongside pita points.
ABOUT THE ERIE COUNTY FAIR
The Erie County Agricultural Society is a private not-for-profit membership organization. Established in 1819, the Society is the oldest civic organization in Western New York. The mission of the Erie County Agricultural Society (ECAS), sponsors of the Erie County Fair, is to preserve and enhance, by educational endeavors, the agricultural and historical legacy of New York State. The Fair strives to fulfill appropriate aspects of the agricultural, educational, entertainment and recreational needs of Western New York. The 2021 Erie County Fair will be held August 11th – 22nd (www.ECFair.org).