In May of 2001, sixteen alpaca breeders in New York came together to create a very successful alpaca showcase they called the Empire Alpaca Extravaganza. Farms came from all over the Northeast to participate in this event and New York farms came in force. It was at this event that the desire was expressed to create a New York Affiliate of the Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association. Again, with fierce determination, New York farms came together and the Empire Alpaca Association was born.

From the first organizational meetings through all current gatherings, EAA strives to educate and bring together alpaca breeders in New York. EAA works hard to create educational and marketing programming that will benefit all owners and breeders. We take seriously our mission statement: "To promote, educate and support alpaca breeders, owners and enthusiasts of New York State."

EAA has taken a place of the forefront of the alpaca industry by being the first Affiliate to draft and adopt a code of ethics for its members. EAA is also one of the fastest growing Affiliates. New York members are now a significant presence on the National scene with positions on AOA's Board of Directors, AOA’s Show Rules Committee, Affiliate Committee, Fiber Committee, and Nominating Committees: New York’s voice is being 'herd'!

We are proud of EAA’s reputation that spans not only from the Affiliate itself but also to the beginning NY show - the Empire Alpaca Extravaganza to the new and improved Showtacular. The Showtacular was the first to introduce the Two-Show, One Weekend format that so many other affiliates have followed.  The Showtacular, is a first class show held annually in the Fall at the NY State Fairgrounds in Syracuse, New York. We’ve attracted exhibitors from all over the country who join in speaking to the wonderful atmosphere that is created for both animals and exhibitors. The Showtacular allows EAA wonderful opportunities to share with the industry by offering educational seminars and making donations to worthy camelid-related causes.

Please take time to study the information found on this website and visit our member farms. Should you have any questions, each and every Board Member is available. Remember, we love and support all alpaca endeavors, and especially New York’s alpacas!