The anticipation was high as fans gathered at Suburban Park in Geddes, N.Y., located at the back of the New York State Fairgrounds, to see the iconic 1990s R&B group TLC perform at 8 p.m. However, just as the crowd started to fill in, disappointment struck as the group announced that they had to cancel their performance due to one of the members falling ill with a severe case of food poisoning. Despite the letdown, many fans decided to make the most of their evening and enjoy the other attractions and performances at the fair.
One such fan, Frederick Greene from Syracuse, remained optimistic despite the setback. „Sir, we are going to have a great night,“ he exclaimed. „We are going to eat, we are going to check out other bands playing, and we are going to enjoy the family get-together.“ With a positive attitude, Greene and his niece, Jaiyah Broom, decided to shift their plans and head straight to Restaurant Row to indulge in some delicious fair food.
As a food and drink writer for syracuse.com and The Post-Standard, I have the privilege of exploring the culinary offerings at the fairgrounds. One standout recommendation that caught my attention was the revival of the infamous garbage plate by Danny Karleski and his team at Tommy C’s stand near Restaurant Row. Originating from Nick Tahou Hots in Rochester, this indulgent dish consists of a hearty combination of mac & cheese, fries, a burger, a hot dog, sausage, peppers, onions, steak, and a Krispy Kreme donut, all smothered in meat sauce and condiments. This 2-pound platter is a steal at $19 and can even be paired with a pint of „Tommy C’s Garbage Plate Beer“ for an extra $5.
For those looking to quench their thirst, the Beer Garden offers a unique selection of craft brews, including the Big Ditch Fun House Mirrors Sour. Described as a carnival twist in a glass, this peanut butter and blackberry jam sour is sure to delight beer enthusiasts and fairgoers alike. With the sun shining bright and the Buffalo Bills game on the horizon, there’s no better way to celebrate than with a cold brew in hand.
In addition to the culinary delights, the fair also boasts a lineup of exciting concerts and performances. From KIDZ BOP to Ying Yang Twins and Chevelle, there’s something for everyone to enjoy throughout the day. As the sun sets and the evening festivities kick into high gear, fairgoers can expect warm, sunny weather with a touch of mugginess in the air.
For those planning to visit the fair, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with some basic information. The fair is open from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily, with various attractions and buildings operating on different schedules. Tickets can be purchased online in advance, and parking is available for $12 per car. Visitors should adhere to the fair’s rules, including designated smoking areas, restrictions on pets, and last call for alcohol at 10:30 p.m.
Overall, despite the unexpected cancellation of TLC’s performance, the spirit of the fair prevailed as attendees embraced the opportunity to explore the diverse offerings and experiences available. Whether indulging in decadent fair food, sipping on craft brews, or enjoying live music, there’s no shortage of entertainment to be found at the New York State Fair. So grab your friends and family, and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this beloved annual event.