We all talk about a return to 'normalcy' and at the top of so many lists will be hearing music performed live again. This week it was announced that the New York State Fair will take place between August 20th and September 6th, and with it comes the chance to see bands perform live.

According to the New York State Fair, there will be daily concerts from national touring acts such as Reo Speedwagon and Great White with Vixen. These shows will take place in the scenic, spacious New York Experience festival grounds. Also confirmed to perform are Dropkick Murphys, Sheena Easton and the Oakridge Boys.

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One difference at this year will be the dividing of the fair into 4 outdoor areas. There will be a food and beverage area, amusements rides and midway area, an area for farm animals and a concert area. Tickets will be sold for each of the outdoor areas, so families can decide which areas they want to visit and plan their day accordingly. To ensure capacity limits and social distancing, attendance at concerts and other live performances will be limited.

Joan Jett and the Blackhearts were billed and the artist expected to close out the entertainment in 2020. With dates and tours being rescheduled it appears unlikely to see Joan Jett at the New York State Fair in 2021. Joan and her band are on the bill with Motley Crue, Def Leppard and Poison with a stop in Orchard Park on August 12th. They are also scheduled for the Palace Theatre in Albany on November 20th.

The New York State Fair is one of our biggest and most exciting tourist attractions that celebrates the spirit of New York and generates economic growth for the region and the entire state," Governor Cuomo said. "I've said time and again that no one wants to open the Fair this year more than I do - and we are finally making it happen in a safe, responsible way with the 2021 Reimagined New York State Fair.

The Fair will take place with capacity limited to 50%, though restrictions could change as Covid-19 rates decline with vaccinations. Admission is $3 per person, with children under 12 admitted free of charge.

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