HAMBURG, N.Y. — The Erie County Fair is gearing up for the 12 best days of the summer but sadly there will be one tradition not returning after this year.
Happening on Thursday, August 1 the Erie County Fair Train will make its final stop to the fairgrounds in Hamburg for one last time.
The colorful freight train first began its annual trip into the area in 1924 and has returned every year since except during the pandemic. The train brings in materials that are used for the fair by the James E. Strates Shows Midway.
Due to a change in times and faster methods of transportation the Strates Shows Midway has decided that they will be using trucks to transport their fair materials moving forward, and retiring the train
Fairgoers and railroad enthusiasts are encouraged to join the Erie County Fair and James E. Strates Shows Midway to celebrate the final fair train beginning at 9 a.m. The train is said to be arriving sometime between 11 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Those who attend can enjoy entertainment, local vendors, and more while waiting for it's arrival. People are also encouraged to plan ahead as it may cause traffic delays.
According to the Erie County Fair's website "Scott Street will be closed beginning at Pleasant Avenue and continuing onto Union Street up to West Avenue beginning at 8 a.m. Lots at Clydes Feeds and the Staub plaza will be open to eventgoers. Guests are encouraged to carpool, rideshare or walk to the train depot if able as parking is extremely limited."
Those looking to learn more can visit www.ecfair.org/trainday