It’s back—the State Fair Meadowlands is a summer staple with thrilling rides, delish food (hello fried zeppoles), rousing carnival games, and spectacular shows that will wow the whole family. This epic 17-day event, beginning June 20 at MetLife Stadium in Rutherford, guarantees fun for everyone. Where else can you ride upside down on a roller coaster and cheer on racing pigs? Read on for what to know about the State Fair in NJ, and get ready for a summer day to remember and more summer festivals will be happening all season long. (featured photo credit: Phil Hoops @hoopsapproved)
Hop on a ride or play a carnival game
With over 100 rides at this year’s fair, there are enough daring and tame ones to please your whole crew. Ride above the fairgrounds on a colorful ski lift as you take in breathtaking views of Manhattan on the Sky Ride, spin the Giant Wheel, or go faster than fast down the Super Slide. For adrenaline seekers, try the thrilling Free Fall or The Himalaya, a speedy, dizzying ride that repeatedly loops you around a track. Got littles who don’t measure up for the faster ones? Spend time at Kiddieland, one of the largest at a fair, with 25+ rides catered to the under-10 set. They’ll be thrilled to ride on classics like the Mini TeaCups, the Wacky Worm, and Red Baron.
Beyond the rides, challenge the fam to your favorite fair games like water gun races, the sledgehammer, and ring toss, and win great prizes as you master all your favorites. If you’re looking for more to do, you can take on new heights on the Batcopter tour and try Batman’s original ride.
State Fair in NJ rides are for the whole family. Photo Credit: Phil Hoops @hoopsapproved
See world-class entertainment
With a variety of free shows included in your Fun Pass ticket, you can have your pick of amazing acts. You won’t want to miss one of the top attractions at State Fair Meadowlands—the racing pigs. These silly swine are known to be America’s #1 fair attraction and a perfect spot to take a break from the rides. Pick your favorite pig and cheer them on as they make their way around the track.
The whole family will be in awe watching the Cycle Circus, where acrobatics and spectacular freestyle motocross stunts are paired with pyrotechnics. Or see magic unfold with Artie Miller, the Strolling Magician. If you’re looking for a more mellow activity, head to the petting zoo featuring exotic animals like camels and kangaroos. Other attractions include award-winning magic, Batman’s original ride, and a moving car that turns into a 15-foot robot called “Big Bee Robot.”
Sparkle for the 4th
Still looking for 4th of July plans? You’ll find that at the fair on July 3 and 4, with a spectacular fireworks display. See the night sky light up with color over the scenic fairgrounds, with rides illuminated to add to the beauty. These famous fireworks are the brightest and the best, bound to dazzle every age. They can be seen from anywhere at the fair, so hop on a ride to watch or take in the view from the roof of your car. 
What to know before you go
The State Fair Meadowlands is open for 17 days starting on June 20, and hours during the week are 6 PM – 12 AM. On weekends and on July 4th, hours begin at 2 PM. To enter, you’ll need to buy a Fun Pass online or the upgraded Fast Pass before you go. The Fun Pass includes unlimited rides, free shows, entertainment, and the petting zoo for $39.99 plus fees. Want to skip the lines? For an extra $15 per person, you can upgrade to the fast pass upon entry at the Info Tent to skip the lines on select rides. All children under 36″ will be admitted to the fair for free. The rides have height restrictions to assure your child’s safety, so check those out beforehand. And because no fair isn’t complete without yummy fair food, you can have your pick from over 100 food vendors with the usual fare, like hot dogs, fried zeppoles, ice cream, and pizza. Or try out one of the many international cuisines, such as Greek, Mexican, or Italian. Healthy food options like salads, fruits, and veggies are also available. The State Fair Meadowlands is stroller-friendly and open rain or shine (no weather refunds). Parking is free.
State Fair Meadowlands
1 MetLife Stadium Drive
East Rutherford, NJ 07073
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