SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WKTV) - The Great New York State Fair kicked off on Thursday in Syracuse, with thousands of people spending the day enjoying rides, food, and touring the exhibits.

Some of the new features this year included a bacon-wrapped doughnut hot dog and a butterfly garden in the Horticulture building.

Fairgoers came from all over, each with a different fair-favorite they were looking forward to.

"Snow cones," said Claire Weinheimer of Manlius.

"I like the concerts," said Sarah Parker of Clinton.

"We went and saw the animals," said Jeff Vahey of Syracuse. "She is from Columbia, so I am showing her the New York State Fair."

Another crowd favorite at the fair, all of the different carnival games.

Arguably one of the most challenging is sinking a basketball in the very large hoop

"The key is to hit the rim or backboard," said the game attendant. "It is going to bounce out otherwise."

When it comes to the water racing came, accurate aim is the key.

"Shoot in the hole," said Miles Partipelo who won a large stuffed animal while playing the game. "I aimed at that hole and shot it..that's about it."

The State Fair lasts 12 days until September 3. Admission is $10.