New York State of mind

Aug 25–30

One of New York State’s largest county fairs—a sprawling 162-acre to-do—takes place just a two-hour train or bus ride from the city. Book a round-trip Metro North Getaway package or on Aug 29, hop on an I LOVE NY bus and make a day trip out of the farm-animal-and-carnival-ride-packed wonderland. Racing pigs, fried Oreos and dock-diving dogs (a.k.a. aquatic canine competitions) are just a few of  the
things you won’t want to miss. Need we say more? Rhinebeck, NY

Aug 29

If you’re looking to head off to the races, why not hit the road for Travers Day at Saratoga Race Course? As the most popular event in Saratoga’s summer series, the Midsummer Derby posts a $1 million purse for the winner of its main event, the Travers Stakes. In addition to the hefty prize, the festivities feature parties and events, such as Saturday’s fashion expo, which includes an award for the best dressed man and woman. Saratoga Springs, NY

Sept 5–6

Buffalo’s most famous export—after the Bills and Rick James—is undoubtedly the buffalo wing. Thousands of the hot-sauce-soaked goodies will be on hand at this festival, in which amateurs and pros compete for top wing-maker. Attendees can face off in various levels of wing-eating contests (last year’s champ, Joey Chestnut, downed 192 wings in 12 minutes), and there will be plenty of new-school wing variations to try. (Just make sure not to miss OG wing originators Anchor Bar.) Buffalo, NY

Sept 17–20

Colorful hot-air balloons fill the sky at this annual four-day fest, which boasts several morning, afternoon and evening launches, offering ample opportunity to see the balloons against a crisp sunrise or illuminated against the night sky. Adventurous attendees can even sign up to ride along. On the ground, attractions include an arts & crafts fair, bike tours and live musical performances. Queensbury, NY

Sept 18–27

Lacrosse returns to its roots at this international tournament held for the first time at the sport’s birthplace, the Onondaga Nation. Watch top teams from 13 countries compete, and make sure to check out the accompanying cultural festival, which features dancers, musicians and artisans from the host Haudenosaunee peoples. Syracuse, NY