NY Funds Youth Travel to Local and County Fairs in 2026

By Blake Jackson

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets has announced that 22 organizations will receive more than $475,000 through the 2026 Transportation for Youth to Local and County Fairs program.

First introduced in 2025, the initiative helps cover transportation and related expenses so youth groups can attend county and local fairs across the state during the 2026 season.

The effort supports Governor Kathy Hochul’s broader goal of strengthening fairs, enhancing youth-focused agricultural programming, and promoting engagement through initiatives like “Unplug and Play.”

“New York’s county and local fairs are cornerstones of our communities and a vital link to the strength and diversity of our agricultural industry. They provide hands-on opportunities for young people to learn about farming, food systems, and the many career paths within agriculture, while also showcasing the hard work of our farmers and producers," Commissioner Ball said.

"We’re proud to continue and expand this transportation program in 2026, helping ensure that more young people from all backgrounds can experience their local fairs. By investing in these connections today, we are cultivating the next generation of agricultural leaders and strengthening the future of New York agriculture for years to come.”

The program builds on earlier efforts, including a pilot launched in 2024 at the Boonville Oneida County Fair. Since then, more than $775,000 has been distributed to support transportation and participation costs.

County and local fairs have long played a central role in New York’s agricultural traditions, offering educational and interactive experiences that connect communities to farming and domestic arts.

Funding in this round has been awarded to organizations across multiple regions, including the Capital Region, Central New York, Finger Lakes, Hudson Valley, Mohawk Valley, New York City, North Country, and Western New York. These investments aim to increase youth attendance, broaden access, and inspire greater interest in agriculture among the next generation.

Click here to view the complete list of project descriptions.

Photo Credit: pexels-karolina-grabowska