Granite State Fair, circus closed today due to rain, will reopen on Saturday

HIGH FLYER: An acrobat performs Thursday afternoon as part of an outside performance by Circus Hollywood. (Rochester Voice photos)

ROCHESTER - Fair officials announced just minutes ago that due to the rain expected this afternoon the fair will be closed all day today and reopen on Saturday at 10 a.m. for its final weekend.

Meanwhile, Circus Hollywood, which will also reopen on Saturday, put on a steallar show Thursday evening, performing outside as it has since the fair opened on Sept, 16.

DOGGONE CUTE: It was poodles a plenty on Thursday as these talented pooches performed a variety of tricks for the crowd.

The outdoor venue was used for the first time this year due to COVID guidance and protocols.

Watching the circus outdoors brings a whole new experience to this delightful family outing, with high flying acrobat performers showing their skill and derring-do against the backdrop of a clear blue sky that is singularly amazing.

Plus you're outside in the clean, clear fresh air.

If you're a shutterbug, you'll find you're able to get much better photos than in the main tent where indoor spotlights can wreak havoc for amateur and professional photographers.

WHEELIE WHEELIE BIG SHOW: A circus performer rides a 20-foot unicycle during Thursday's performance of Circus Hollywood at the Granite State Fair in Rochester.

One other thing to note is that since they're outdoors there's no problem taking in some fair food to munch on during the show.

So if you haven't ever been to a circus that's not under the big top, this is the time to do it.