New York selects new operator for State Fair midway

GEDDES — The New York State Fair has a new operator for its midway rides and attractions.

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets announced it has awarded Livonia, Mich.–based Wade Shows a 10-year contract to operate the midway.

The department operates the State Fair.

Wade Shows replaces Orlando, Fla.–based James E. Strates Shows, which had been the operator for the “past seven plus decades,” Richard Ball, acting New York State Agriculture Commissioner, said in a news release.

The state selected Wade Shows following a request-for-proposals (RFP) process that began last summer.

“Over the years, this company has gained a deserved reputation for increasing both revenue and attendance at agricultural fairs, while providing a superior entertainment product for fairgoers,” Ball said.

Three bidders went through the complete RFP process, outlining their work histories, safety and inspection processes, operations, pricing, proposed rides, games, concessions, and references. 

The bidders also conducted in-person presentations on March 5, the department said. 

Ball also acknowledged the work of James E. Strates Shows, saying its “contributions to building and promoting tourism in upstate New York will never be forgotten.”

Wade Shows provides midway attractions for more state fairs than any other operator in the U.S., the department said.

It also serves as the midway operator at the Tulsa State Fair, the Florida State Fair, the North Carolina State Fair, the South Florida Fair, the San Antonio Livestock Show and Rodeo, and the Oklahoma State Fair, it added.

Wade Shows will provide at least 63 new rides, 25 food stands, 70 games, and 25 novelty and other sales booths at this year’s fair on “what will likely be an expanded midway.”

The State Fair is scheduled this year between Aug. 21 and Sept. 1.

Contact Reinhardt at ereinhardt@cnybj.com