The Monmouth County Fair, an iconic summer event that makes its annual stop at the East Freehold Showgrounds in Freehold Township every July, enjoyed a successful return in 2021 following its cancellation in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Regular fair attendees were disappointed a year ago when the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners cancelled the popular event, but understood it was a smart decision as the coronavirus was sweeping through New Jersey.
As coronavirus cases declined earlier this year, the county commissioners announced the fair would return with all of the rides, exhibits, entertainment, food and fun that has made it a summer staple for decades.
In the 1970s, the fair was held at Freehold Raceway before it was moved to the spacious East Freehold Showgrounds on Kozloski Road in Freehold Township. The fair is organized and presented by the Monmouth County Park System in cooperation with the Monmouth County 4-H Association.
Asked for a comment about the 2021 fair, Monmouth County Commissioner Ross Licitra said, “The 46th Monmouth County Fair was an incredible experience for county residents and visitors alike.
“With COVID-19 restrictions lifted, fair-goers came from far and wide to join us in celebrating all that makes Monmouth County a special place to live.
“Our 95,000-plus guests who attended the fair had the opportunity to enjoy entertainment, food vendors and various other attractions, many of whom are from right here in Monmouth County.
“I want to personally thank my fellow commissioners for their support, our Board of Recreation Commissioners and all of our parks employees who made this event a massive success, along with our partners at the Monmouth County 4-H Association.
“We look forward to planning next year’s fair and to seeing everyone there,” Licitra said.
The 2021 Monmouth County Fair enjoyed its run from July 21-25 at the East Freehold Showgrounds. Visitors watched acts that included the Hell on Wheels BMX Stunt Show, the Motorcycle Madness Thrill Show, Robinson’s Racing Pigs and the Ready GO Dog Show, and main stage entertainment was presented each day during the fair’s run.