New Jersey knows how to do summer right—and nothing says summer quite like a county fair! From thrilling rides and fried Oreos to prize-winning livestock and live music, these events bring together everything we love about warm-weather fun. Whether you're looking for a full day of adventure with the family or a nostalgic night under the lights, these five state and county fairs across New Jersey offer something for everyone. Let’s dive into the best ones to add to your calendar this year.
1. Sussex County Farm & Horse Show / New Jersey State Fair (Aug 1–9)
This ten-day agricultural extravaganza in Augusta draws around 220,000 people annually. It’s the official New Jersey State Fair—expect jaw-dropping horse shows, livestock exhibits, pig races, demolition derbies, carnival rides, and live music. A perfect mix of rural heritage and big‑town excitement.
🎡 2. Monmouth County Fair (July 23–27)
Hosted at East Freehold Showgrounds in Freehold, this fair is a summertime staple. With 4-H livestock shows, home‑garden competitions, chainsaw-carving, and a classic carnival midway, it’s a hit for families across Central Jersey.
🎪 3. Gloucester County 4‑H Fair (July 24–27)
Located in Mullica Hill, the Gloucester County 4‑H Fair is a beloved summer event packed with 4‑H livestock shows, home arts competitions, carnival rides, and live entertainment. As part of New Jersey’s packed fair schedule, this one runs from July 24 to 27, offering a great family-friendly option with plenty of charm
🚜 4. Burlington County Farm Fair (July 22–26)
A highlight of South Jersey’s summer calendar, this fair at Columbus boasts agriculture showcases, carnival fun, and local flavor oceancountyfair.org. Don’t miss tasty fair foods and 4‑H demos, making it ideal for families wanting a community vibe with classic amusement park feel.
🎠 5. Cape May County 4‑H Fair (July 17–19)
Set in scenic South Dennis, this smaller, community‑oriented fair offers a more relaxed experience. Featuring 4-H farm animals, agricultural education, crafts, live entertainment, and carnival rides—it’s perfect for a quick, charming summer outing.
Whether you're a fan of funnel cakes, farm animals, or Ferris wheels, New Jersey’s state and county fairs offer the perfect mix of fun, tradition, and local flavor. These five picks are just a taste of what the Garden State has to offer this summer. So grab your sunscreen, pack some extra napkins, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories—because fair season only comes once a year, and you won’t want to miss it!