The bright flashing neon lights shine onto the huge crowd of people, as the sound of carnival games echoes the warm summer air. Fair season is soon approaching, along with the smell of buttery popcorn and sights of horse shows. The New Jersey State Fair roots back to 1821 and soon returns to New Jersey for the summer fair season.
Fair season only comes once a year, and that time is soon approaching. The New Jersey State Fair will start Aug. 2, and end Aug. 10 making it the perfect activity for mid-summer. To visit, the address is 37 Plains Road, Augusta, NJ. To attend the fair and go on rides or play games, pricing will vary, but the automatic system for tickets is $3 for 2 Tickets, $15 Sheet for 11 Tickets,$25 Sheet for 22 Tickets, and $55 Sheet for 55 Tickets.
Once paying for admission, and for ride tickets, there’s no need to worry about parking because parking is always free. Sophomore Paige Drazenovic states, “My family and I go to this fair every year, and my mom always says the free parking is the best part.”
If you’re looking for a good time but also a good budget, the fair includes free entertainment included with admission. These include a performing arts tent, cowtown, edutainment (education entertainment), sports shows including biking, and much more.
Junior Waiz Shaikh says, “A few summers ago my family and I visited the fair without paying for ride tickets. There were many activities to do included with admission that were still just as fun”.
For all the foodies out there, the fair has you covered. With over 60 food vendors featured on their website, there’s a variety of food for all. One of these vendors includes a special guest only on August 5th “Cousins Maine Lobster”.
Not only are there food vendors but there are also commercial vendors. There are over 140 commercial vendors featured on their website that will make an appearance at the 2024 fair. Although this fair has many out-of-the-ordinary features, there are still the classic carnival rides and fun games. Sophomore Allison Jones states, “I love boardwalk rides so I want to go to the fair this summer.”
Just like the boardwalk, there’s the classic carnival, swings, and many more.
The loud sounds and the big rides many do enjoy, but if anyone experiences sensory issues the carnival is offering a period of quietness on Aug 8. 12 pm – 2 pm. Sophomore Zoe Leitao states, “I think it’s cool that they offer a more inclusive option for people with sensory impairments.”
The Sussex County Carnival is a sight worth seeing from the vendors, to the rides to the food. Pre-sale tickets will start May 1st and can be bought on their website: https://sussexcountyfairgrounds.org/html/tickets.cfm. This super unique experience is a sure way to enjoy a nice summer day.
