State Fair at the Meadowlands Fairgrounds, East Rutherford, will donate up to 2,000 State Fair entry tickets to underprivileged children in Middlesex and Monmouth counties this spring, for use during the 19-day fair, slated to run daily from June 17 through July 5.
“State Fair Meadowlands — New Jersey’s largest annual family-friendly event — is close to home, and we want to make sure that all kids, regardless of income, have a chance to come and share the fun,” said Al Dorso, president of State Fair at the Meadowlands Fairgrounds. “For our Tix 4 Kids program, we are looking to partner with nonprofit organizations throughout the state to identify children who could benefit.”
Interested outreach professionals may email [email protected], with the name of their organization in the subject line. All requests must be submitted by email (no phone calls).
The fair will feature 50 food vendors and over 150 rides and attractions for all ages. This year’s fair will feature four new shows — Piccadilly Circus, with acrobats, clowns and circus animals; Sea Lion Splash, a splashy and educational summer show featuring the antics of sea lions; an Aerial Stunt Show featuring the original Batcopter from the “Batman” TV series and movie; and the “Hell on Wheels Trilogy” BMX show. Entertainment to these and other shows is free with entry ticket.
In addition to this year’s new shows, free nightly entertainment will include hypnotist Steve Bayner, racing pigs, Festival of Magic, World of Wonder/Palace of Illusion and free concerts. Families can relax in the Kid Zone, a grassy area with picnic tables, umbrellas, and space for parents and kids to unwind.
This year’s special events will include Batcopter rides, a Jersey Tomato Fight on June 26, and a “Record- Breaking Bubble Wrap Popping Event” June 27. Fair patrons are invited to participate in these events and make history. The second annual Auto and Bike Show will take place July 2 from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m., and July 3 from 2 to 11 p.m. The annual fireworks displays will be held July 3 and 4.
State Fair will offer the following bargains this year:
• Dollar Preview Night — June 17. Everything from parking, rides and select food items will costs $1 each, and admission is just $2.
• Father’s Day Special — June 20. Dads ride rides for free from 2 to 6 p.m.
• Midnight Madness will be held every Friday night from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Rides and admission will be $19.95.
• Carload Night — June 24. Everyone who fits in one car (up to eight people) can enter and ride unlimited rides for one price of $69, with free parking included.
• Patron Appreciation Day — July 5. Pay One Price Combo for admission and unlimited rides for $25 per person.
Fair hours will be Monday through Thursday, 6 p.m. to midnight; Fridays from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Saturdays from 2 p.m. to 2 a.m., and Sundays from 2 p.m. to midnight. Special hours on July 3 and 4 will be from 2 p.m. to 2 a.m. and July 5 from 2 p.m. to midnight. On opening night, June 17, gates will open at 5 p.m.
Advance tickets for State Fair Meadowlands are on sale now through June 16 and can be bought online at www.njfair.com or by calling 973-450-1073. Special group packages are also available. Check njfair. com for updates on promotions and more about this year’s fair.