The New Jersey State Fair is back and better than ever this summer

The biggest event of the year is not cancelled: The New Jersey State Fair returns for eight jam-packed days of fun August 7 – 14. Tickets are on sale now.

Thousands flock to the bucolic Sussex County Fairgrounds every year for its nostalgia-inducing attractions, from farm animals and agricultural shows, to pig races, corn dogs and carnival rides.

This isn’t a handful of rides in a parking lot – it is a classic county fair that reflects the heart of the Garden State. And it’s the largest agricultural fair in New Jersey – with countless activities spanning across over 100 acres in a safe, family-friendly, open-air environment.

Fun is back in ’21

The New Jersey State fair is “best in show” when it comes to fun for all ages. The weeklong event has something for everyone.

Here’s just a sampling of the best things to do at the fair.

Eat cotton candy atop a ferris wheel.

The fair’s carnival offers countless rides and games for kids and grown-ups.

Have a smashing time at the demolition derby

A rip-roaring, wildly popular show.

Learn how to milk a cow

Visit the milking parlor for demonstrations. Then, put on your farmer hat and visit “The Incredible Milking Cow” (a fake, gigantic cow that can actually be “milked”) to put your new skill to the test.

Cheer for your favorite pig

One of the fair’s most popular attractions? The pig races. Soo wee!

Feed baby goats

Goats, cows, llamas, bunnies – the fair has six barns of animals to meet and greet.

Sip locally crafted beverages

The best beer and wine in the state.

Trot to the horse show

A fair staple since 1923.

Have a cow

Here, one of the prize cows gets a bath before her big debut. Moo-ve on over to the cow show to see the very best in New Jersey.

Discover why they call it the Garden State

Browse greenhouses of herbs and flowers. Visit the farmers market and take home New Jersey’s best tomatoes.

Get crafty

Browse handmade goods from craft vendors, from quilts to sculptures. Create your own masterpiece during regularly scheduled crafting activities throughout the day.

Meet the queen bee...

And shop an array of local honey products.

...and the Queen of the Fair

The Queen of the Fair will be announced the evening of Saturday, August 7.

All this and much more is coming August 7 – 14 at the Sussex County Fairgrounds. See the full daily schedule of events by clicking here.