6 Best Performing Arts in The Finger Lakes, New York

About two dozen hot-air balloons participate in this annual three-day event held the second weekend in June. Live bands, balloon rides, and food and crafts vendors are part of the fun.

For three days every August, tens of thousands of farmers and hobby agriculturalists gather in a field filled with vendors promoting everything from giant tractors to alpaca fur. Food booths, operated by community not-for-profit groups, sell sausage sandwiches, ice cream, and other fare.

The music ranges from Cajun and zydeco to African and reggae at this four-day festival that raises money to fight AIDS. The event is held in July on the fairgrounds. Limited tent and vehicle camping is available on-site.

Nearly a million people visit the nearly two-week-long fair each year, making it one of the most popular events in upstate New York. The 375-acre fairground hosts world-class musical entertainment, carnival rides and games, international equestrian competitions, 4-H animal shows, butter-sculpting contests, and assorted vendors. Free daily entertainment includes concerts, circus acts, and more.

Chamber music reigns during the monthlong Skaneateles Festival, which starts in early August. Pianist Jon Nakamatsu is among the many other acclaimed musicians who have been featured in the program. Performances, ranging from $12 to $30, are held in First Presbyterian Church and at the Brook Farm estate.

The fair, one of the oldest in the state, is held over five days in early July. Traditional activities include a demolition derby, amusement rides, kids' games, petting farms, 4-H exhibits, and various musical performers.