About Us

The foundation of the fair (big or small) is all about agricultural education. The fair is “really about the kids” learning about real life. The fair is something you can’t read about in a book or find on a city street. It is something you have to see. Come visit us and see the hard-work ethic of our ag families and our 4-H kids that showcase their hardwork, all striving for excellence. You might find something that you, your kids or grandkids have been missing out on. Fairs are a celebration of who we are, what we do and where we live. Fairs are all about families.

The Cortland Junior Fair was formed in 1953 by a group of individuals who formed the County of Cortland Agricultural Corporation. It was formed when the former County fair closed due to funding issues. The 4-H’ers needed a place to exhibit their projects and show their animals with the goal of moving on to the State Fair in Syracuse, NY. 

Hence the Junior Fair was started.

The Cortland Fair is a member of

               The New York State Association of Agricultural Fairs

               The International Associations of Fairs and Expositions.

               Farm Bureau

The Corporation is managed by a volunteer board of directors. We dedicate our time throughout the year utilizing the grounds with many events culminating in the Jr. Fair held each year in July. The corporation works in conjunction with Cortland County Cornell Cooperative Extension.

Midway games and rides provide by Ontario Amusements