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 18-day event beginning June 22 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)
Where else can you see incredible shows besides the State Fair in NJ? Photo Credit: State Fair Group
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, take a spin on the Ferris 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 35 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 helicopter tour or head over to the adult boat rides for some grown-up fun.
State Fair in NJ rides are for the whole family. Photo Credit: Phil Hoops @hoopsapproved
See world-class entertainment
With over 10 shows included in your Fun Pass ticket, you can have your pick of amazing acts. One of the top attractions at State Fair Meadowlands is “Rosaire’s Royal Racing Pigs.” These silly swine are known to be America’s #1 fair attraction. Pick your favorite pig and cheer them on as they make their way around the track. Or join in on the fun with lumberjack competitors known throughout the world. The Paul Bunyon Lumberjack Show will bring laughter, thrills, and chills for all ages.
The whole family will be in awe watching the Cycle Circus, where acrobatics and spectacular freestyle motocross stunts are paired with pyrotechnics. Or get hypnotized by Steve Bayner, where audience participation is definitely on the program (Fun Fact: Over 1300 people are hypnotized at the State Fair in NJ). 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, a pirate tightrope show, Batman’s original ride, and a moving car that turns into a 15-foot robot called “Big Bee Robot.”
Fireworks are the perfect way to end the day after spending the day at the State Fair in NJ. Photo Credit: State Fair Group
Sparkle for the 4th
Still looking for 4th of July plans? You’ll find that at the fair on July 3rd and 4th, at 10 PM, 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.
There is nothing like the food at the State Fair in NJ, from popcorn to chips to french fries. Photo Credit: Phil Hoops @hoopsapproved
What to know before you go
The State Fair Meadowlands is open for 18 days starting on June 22, and hours during the week are 6 PM – 12 AM. On weekends and on July 4th, hours begin at 2 PM. To enter, you must purchase a Fun Pass online before you go. The pass includes unlimited rides, free shows, entertainment, and the petting zoo for $38.99. For $15, 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 will also be available. The State Fair Meadowlands is stroller friendly and is open rain or shine (there are no weather refunds). Parking is free.
State Fair Meadowlands
1 MetLife Stadium Drive
East Rutherford, NJ 07073
(201) 355-5911
Become an NJMOM Insider! For all the best things to do with your family around New Jersey, be sure to sign up for our weekly newsletter delivered right to your inbox each week, and don’t forget to tag your photos #NJMOM and @njmom for a chance to be featured on our social media.
