2024 Winter Fair hopes to attract thousands to Expo Center

The fifth Winter Fair is set for Feb. 2-4, 2024 at the Expo Center at the New York State Fairgrounds in Geddes. (PHOTO CREDIT: PREMIER PROMOTIONS)

GEDDES — It’s become an annual event that provides a taste of summer in the middle of winter at the Expo Center at the New York State Fairgrounds. Winter Fair 2024 is scheduled for Feb. 2-4 and its promoter says he hopes the fair will attract 20,000 people to the venue in the town of […]

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GEDDES — It’s become an annual event that provides a taste of summer in the middle of winter at the Expo Center at the New York State Fairgrounds.

Winter Fair 2024 is scheduled for Feb. 2-4 and its promoter says he hopes the fair will attract 20,000 people to the venue in the town of Geddes.

This is the 5th edition of the event that includes the food, rides, music, and entertainment that people enjoy throughout the summer. 

Advanced-sale tickets are available now at www.nyswinterfair.com. Advanced tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for teens/pre-teens and seniors. Children 10 and under will be admitted free of charge. 

At the door, admission is $7 for adults and $5 for teens/pre-teens and seniors. Children 10 and under will be admitted free of charge. Parking is free, courtesy of AmeriCU.

“We want to give people a chance to have some summer fun,” Steve Becker, owner and president of Premier Promotions and the promoter of Winter Fair 2024, said in a news release announcing the event. “It’s great to have an event for all ages, where you can bring your friends and family to. The New York State Fairgrounds have great year-round events and Winter Fair has become an annual tradition.” 

The Winter Fair is also seen as an “economic boost” for the region, bringing in people from across New York state, other states, and Canada.

As Winter Fair “continues to get bigger and better each year, this fun-filled February weekend will once again bring together people from throughout the region,” Danny Liedka, president and CEO of Visit Syracuse, said in the release. “With so much to see and do, the three-day family-friendly event provides tremendous value alongside boundless opportunities for delivering lasting magical memories. We are truly fortunate to work with the team at Winter Fair to promote this annual event far and wide.”

Legends, support, & entertainment

Besides its traditional components, Winter Fair 2024 will also include the Legends of Syracuse University Athletics from football, basketball, and lacrosse. 

“Legend Athletics works with current and past players so they are able to market their own name, image, & likeness with apparel, events, branding but most importantly being able to work with their branding with the university’s/colleges they played for. We are bringing back to Syracuse for the 2024 Winter Fair the Syracuse 8, Michael Owens, Robert Drummond, John Wallace, Lawrence Moten, Pearl Washington’s family, and many more once confirmed,” Patricia Mussi, owner of Legend Athletics, said in the release.

Onondaga County will be presenting the Winter Fair fireworks display on Feb. 2 and Feb. 3 at 8:45 p.m. by the Expo Center. 

“From great entertainment and delicious food to a mini midway and spectacular fireworks show, there is something for everyone,” Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon said. “Our community is fortunate to host such great events like the Syracuse Winter Fair and I look forward to another successful year.”

“This is a great opportunity to experience the fun of the summer in the heart of winter in Syracuse,” Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh said. “The Winter Fair has become an annual tradition that brings local businesses, nonprofits and Winter Fair favorites together for a memorable weekend for all.”

Winter Fair 2024 will include entertainment on and by the Amazon Winter Fair stage. Music performers will include the following: Austin Jimmy Murphy, Custom Taylor Band, and Prime Time performing on Feb. 2; Jess Novak; The BlackLites, an award winning funk, pop and R&B band; and classic rock from Dangerous Type on Feb. 3; and the lineup on Feb. 4 will include a 60-minute gospel Sunday program under the direction of Cora Thomas and the R&B/funk/soul group Brownskin, as well as Joe Driscoll.

Eric Reinhardt: