Vendors make last minute preparations for the NYS Fair

GEDDES, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — It’s hard to believe all the work that’s gone into getting the Fairgrounds ready for Wednesday, August 21, the first day of the New York State Fair.

• Gaetz scores big win over McCarthy: 5 takeaways from Tuesday’s primaries
• Peltola, two Republicans advance in Alaska House race
• The Obama Show thrills Democrats: 5 takeaways from Day 2 of the DNC
• Obama warns of ‘tight race’ ahead, ‘dangerous’ return of Trump
• Michelle Obama tells DNC ‘hope is making a comeback’ with Harris

Joe Diaz has a sweet tooth for the New York State Fair. His candy store is back for the 16th time.

“We’re veterans here, he said. “That’s why we keep coming back because the New York State Fair treats us well.”

The company is based out of Rhode Island but pitches a tent at fairs all around the country.
From saltwater taffy, to sour patch kids, and candy necklaces, Joe’s team didn’t need a sugar rush to prepare.

“We had to meet certain goals each day to make sure we were on track for opening. That went pretty well,” Diaz said. “All of our shipments came in on a timely manner, so that was another plus.”

If you’re not in the mood for a sweet treat, that’s no problem. Just up the way is Big Kahuna’s, a great place for food, fun and drinks.

“We pop up the truck, we do a quick wash, cleanup, get ready, load in, and we are ready to go,” said Allen Laventure, who is in charge of Big Kahuna’s.

Allen spent his day decorating the truck and preparing traditional fair food and beer and wine slushies for the next two weeks. He rolled into town a week ago, looking forward to the Fair for months.

“They do a great job at this event,” Laventure said. “People are happy. It’s kind of a great way to finish off summer.”

What screams summer more than flowers? You can see what’s growing in the Horticulture Building, though it took a little longer than usual to dig in.

“Because we had so many extra things we did, it was a lot. But we are really excited about what we got and what we are going to show people,” said Fred Miller, the superintendent of the flower show. “It’s all going to be worth it in the end.”

Some new additions to the flower show include daily competitions, a garden space, and artistry display.

Doors open at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSYR.