By Valerie Victor
The annual Queens County Fair and Corn Maze in Floral Park offers New Yorkers the chance to have country fun without having to leave the Big Apple.
“For those viewing the entries, it is incredible to find that even in our fast-paced city, people with such busy schedules find the time to make jam, jellies and pies using treasured family recipes, grow beautiful flowers and create amazing artwork,” said Farm Museum Director Amy Boncardo.
Now in its 33rd year, the fair takes place Sept. 19-20.
And while there will be plenty of down-on-the-farm activities to keep visitors entertained, a couple of new performers with an international flair are on tap.
On Saturday, the fair will host Irish bands and dancers. Then on Sunday, German bands and dancers will perform in a beer garden.
In addition to new acts and bands, the fair will feature its traditional blue ribbon competition in livestock, produce, home crafts, arts, and more.
Visitors have the opportunity to listen to music, try their hand at juggling, and see different exhibits yet the county fair still houses its traditional activities like pig racing, pie eating and corn husking contests.
Hayrides are also available to explore the farmland throughout the fair.
One of the main attractions is the 13th annual Amazing Maize Maze.
The maze, which is open weekends beginning Sept. 19 through Oct. 25, offers visitors of all ages the chance to get lost in the three-acre puzzle. The corn maze now features a new interactive design providing a different experience for annual visitors.
This year’s theme is The Triple Crown.
“Families, office groups, friends, scout troops and the like enjoy the fun of competition,” Boncardo said. “The maze is a great team building exercise and a fun bonding activity for families, giving kids and adults a chance to be part of a memorable maze adventure.”
Every maze foray begins with a maze orientation discussion called Stalk Talk explaining rules and outlining safety instructions. For a more challenging experience, Maze by Moonlight is offered on specific evenings when visitors may explore the maze at night using flashlights.
Tours of the farmhouse give background information on the farmland. The house dates back to 1697, residing on New York City’s largest parcel of unaltered farmland. The farm is 47 acres of New York state’s longest farmed land, including historic buildings, greenhouses, and planting fields.
The number of events and activities available to Queens County Fair guests promise a rewarding experience for all, Boncardo said.
She points out that more than 40 percent of the annual air visitors are now regulars at the farm.
If you Go
Queens County Fair
When: Saturday, Sept, 19, and Sunday, Sept. 20, 11 am – 6 pm
Where: Queens Country Farm Museum, 73-50 Little Neck Parkway, Floral Park
Cost: Fair — $9/adults, $5/children 12 and under; Corn Maze — $9/adults, $5/children 4-11, Free/children 3 and under
Contact: (718) 347-3276
Website: www.queen
