The 4 Best Summer County Fairs In New Jersey
New Jersey’s summer fair season brings together the state's rich agricultural heritage, carnival entertainment, and local tradition in ways the whole family can enjoy. Across the state, various county fairs fill the calendar with anything from shows displaying farm animals and tractor pulls to rides, food vendors, and live music, offering something for nearly every age group.
While each fair we will be covering here has its own character, many rooted in farming, others focused on spectacle, they all serve as gathering points for communities across the Garden State, helping both visitors and locals alike to better connect with the people and culture around them.
Warren County Farmers' Fair - Phillipsburg
Dating back to 1937, the Warren County Farmers’ Fair is known for its hot air balloon festival, which really sets it apart from the other fairs on this list. Held in late July in Harmony Township, this eight-day-long fair, like many country fairs across the country, places agriculture front and center, with livestock showcases, a rodeo, quilting and canning demonstrations, and tractor rides making up the bulk of the schedule.
But let's focus a bit more on the fair’s daily balloon launches. It draws enthusiasts from across the state, a feature that includes evening mass ascensions and tethered rides, weather permitting. Whether you're going for a ride or simply viewing from the ground, this is a beautiful aspect of the Warren County Farmers’ Fair that you can't miss.
The fairgrounds also contain a dirt track used for demolition derbies and garden tractor pulls, and there’s a modest midway section with rides that lean family-friendly. Moreover, a separate section of the grounds houses antique engines and farm equipment, adding to its countryside vibes.
Monmouth County Fair - Freehold
Held annually in late July at the East Freehold Showgrounds, the Monmouth County Fair is one of New Jersey’s most comprehensive summer fairs. It’s organized by the Monmouth County Park System and spans five days, featuring 4-H livestock shows, home and garden competitions, and various other agricultural-related exhibits that highlight local farming traditions.
It is truly an event for everyone, as groups of all ages can attend nightly entertainment, craft demonstrations, and a robust midway with amusement rides set up all throughout. The fair also includes a homegrown produce competition and multiple food vendors serving New Jersey staples, along with classic carnival fare. Furthermore, horse shows and chainsaw carving events provide unique programming not always found at other county fairs.
With an emphasis on both agriculture and family-friendly entertainment, the Monmouth County Fair balances traditional county fair elements with modern attractions, making it a reliable summer event for residents across Central New Jersey. Also, note that both parking and admission are managed on-site.
L.E.A.D. Fest State Fair - West Windsor Township
Held annually in late June through early July at the Mercer County Park Fairgrounds in West Windsor Township, this event is both a summer fair and a fundraiser for Law Enforcement Against Drugs (L.E.A.D.). It’s heavy on attractions, with large-scale carnival rides, nightly live music, and stunt shows.
If you are looking for something this summer to kill an afternoon or two just outside of Trenton, definitely give this event a try. Daily entertainment also often includes circus acts, races, and even dock-jumping competition for dogs! Fireworks displays are scheduled for multiple nights, too, while themed activity days cater to camp groups and families with younger kids during the daytime.
L.E.A.D. Fest typically runs for ten days, with parking available on-site, and admission prices varying by the day.
Sussex County Farm & Horse Show / New Jersey State Fair - Augusta
Hosted each August at the Sussex County Fairgrounds, this exciting event functions both as the Sussex County Fair and the official New Jersey State Fair. It has maintained its strong rural identity over the years, while simultaneously offering large-scale attractions that appeal across age groups.
Located near the New York and Pennsylvania borders, it lures in visitors from multiple counties in the northeast and remains a cornerstone event for northern New Jersey. The fair goes for nine days and covers a wide range of agricultural and recreational programming aimed at a variety of interests. Furthermore, educational exhibits focus on local farming, conservation, and crafts, providing hands-on opportunities for kids and families.
Key features include livestock competitions, animal showcases, equestrian events, and horticultural exhibits. The fairgrounds also boasts a large midway section with a seemingly endless selection of rides and games, making it one of the most expansive in the state. Daily schedules include other fun and unique draws, like demolition derbies, pig races, dog shows, and live music.
Explore the Garden State Through These Classic Fairs
These county fairs in New Jersey, many of which have been going on for generations, make the summer a fun and exciting time to travel throughout the region. Whether you love delving into farm life or enjoy exploring a classic midway, full of rides and indulgent fair foods, these events remain essential attractions for anyone within the Garden State this year.
