The first state in America to host a state fair was New York in 1841.  In fact, as of 2019, it was the oldest and one of the most highly attended of all US state fairs. The Great New York State Fair began with the establishment of the New York State Agricultural Society in February 1832.  The group was made up of farmers, legislators, and others who wanted to advocate for agriculture and local fairs.  After years of planning, the first New York State Fair was held in Syracuse from September 29-30, 1841.  Between 10,000 and 15,000 people visited the fair during these dates and witnessed events such as speeches, animal exhibits, plowing contests, and samples of farm and home goods. After the first New York State Fair, the location of the event changed several times over the next few decades.  Finally, in September 1890, the Syracuse Land Company gave 100 acres to the Agricultural Society for a permanent fairgrounds.  Management of the fair was turned over to New York State in 1899, and permanent buildings were constructed not long after. As of 2019, the 13-day attendance record for the New York State Fair was over 1.3 million.  The classic fair food, fun and educational exhibits, competitions, and family-friendly traditions keep visitors coming back year after year.