Fun, food, and games. That’s what it’s all about at this long weekend’s Richmond County Fair.
"I like the roller coaster, the swings, and I come here every single year," said a young girl who attended the fair.
"I like the roller coaster, like I told you. I think I may like the Ferris wheel, too," said a fair attendee.
Organizers say the fair has been going on since the 19th century, making it the biggest and oldest county fair in the city.Historic Richmond Town has been organizing it for 37 years.
"So we have lots of strolling street acts, musicians. We have Jango the monkey out here today, which is kind of cool. It’s just a great day for family and fun," said Ed Wiseman, president and CEO of Historic Richmond Town.
Beyond the fun, Wiseman says there is a bigger purpose.
"We raise funds for the school programs and the educational programs at Historic Richmond Town with the fair," said Wiseman.
Those taking in the fair say they didn't want to let a cloudy day spoil the fun. Instead, they wanted to come early to beat the oncoming storm.
"Yeah, that’s why we came on Saturday. We watch the weather on channel 1," said a parent who attended fair with her son.
"It’s supposed to rain tomorrow, so hopefully, it doesn’t today and we have a great day, said another fair attendee.
Depending on the impact of Hermine, the fair will go through Monday.
"New Yorkers are not scared of the weather anymore. They know exactly when to stay home and exactly when to come out, and they're coming out," said Wiseman.
With a variety of rides for all ages and vendors, it’s fun for the entire family.
The fair costs $16 for adults and children over 30 inches tall. Smaller kids get in free.
"My favorite thing about the fair is that you get to spend it with my family," said a young girl who went to the fair with her family.