Empire State Fair Returns to Nassau Coliseum with Rides, Shows, and Fireworks, June 27 Through July 13
UNIONDALE, N.Y. – The annual Empire State Fair makes its return to the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum from June 27 through July 13, featuring carnival rides, live entertainment, food, and fireworks.
Admission is set at $10 per person, with free entry for children under 36 inches. Included are mid‑week hours of 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., and weekend plus holiday hours from noon to 11 p.m. Parking is complimentary..
Attendees can enjoy:
- Free shows with paid admission, including Circus Murcia, the World of Wonders sideshow, a Dinosaur Experience, and the Sandlofer Family Petting Zoo.
- A sprawling Dreamland Amusements carnival midway, with highlights like the 110-foot Ferris Wheel, Super Cyclone Roller Coaster, and new family rides.
- Fireworks by Grucci on Saturdays, including July 4, and special evenings on June 29, July 6, and July 13.
Ride wristbands cost $29 online (until June 27) or $42 at the gate. Family bundles are available: two wristbands for $55 or four for $99.
The fair offers a wide variety of food and treats, and rides are included in the wristband price once inside.
Nassau Coliseum, located at 1255 Hempstead Turnpike in Uniondale, serves as the event venue. Adult supervision is required for attendees under 18.
At‑A‑Glance Fair Info – Long Island Edition
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Dates | June 27 – July 13, 2025 |
| Hours (Weekdays) | 5 p.m. – 11 p.m. |
| Hours (Weekends/Holidays) | Noon – 11 p.m. |
| Cost | $10 admission; free for kids under 36″ tall; free parking |
| Rides | $29 online wristband (pre‑June 27), $42 at gate; family bundles available |
| Entertainment | Circus Murcia, World of Wonders, Dinosaur Experience, Petting Zoo |
| Fireworks | Saturday nights including July 4, plus June 29, July 6, July 13 |
| Venue | Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, Uniondale |
Empire State Fair 2025 – Q&A for Long Island Residents
Q: When and where is the Empire State Fair taking place?
A: The fair runs from June 27 through July 13, 2025, at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Uniondale, located at 1255 Hempstead Turnpike.
Q: What are the fair’s operating hours?
A: Weekday hours are 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., while weekends and holidays operate from 12 noon to 11 p.m..
Q: How much is admission?
A: General admission is $10 per person, with free entry for children under 36 inches tall. Parking is also free.
Q: Are ride passes included in admission?
A: No, ride passes are sold separately. Unlimited ride wristbands cost $29 online until June 27, or $42 at the gate. Family packages are also available.
Q: What entertainment is included with admission?
A: All guests can access free shows such as:
- Circus Murcia
- World of Wonders sideshow
- Dinosaur Experience
- Sandlofer Family Petting Zoo
Q: Will there be fireworks?
A: Yes, Grucci Fireworks will light up the night on Saturdays, including July 4, and additional shows on June 29, July 6, and July 13.
Q: Are food and drinks available?
A: Yes, a wide range of food vendors will be on-site with classic carnival fare and specialty treats.
Q: Is the fair family-friendly?
A: Absolutely. In addition to kiddie rides and animal attractions, children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Q: Is there public transportation to the Coliseum?
A: Nassau Coliseum is accessible via NICE Bus routes and by LIRR Hempstead Branch, though walking or rideshare from the station may be needed.
Q: Is this event returning annually?
A: The Empire State Fair has been a seasonal tradition at the Nassau Coliseum and is expected to continue each summer, barring any future schedule changes.
- Empire State Fair: https://empirestatefair.com
