©NJ State Fair

There's always something exciting happening at the New Jersey State Fair, also known as the Sussex County Farm and Horse Show, that takes place every summer in Augusta, New Jersey. Being one of the country’s oldest fairs, it was initially held at the Branchville Fairgrounds but then moved to the 165-acre (67-hectare) venue of Sussex County in 1976.

The Sussex County Fairgrounds Complex has functioned as the home to a wide variety of year-round, farm-related, cultural, entertainment, and athletic events. It has provided a location for visitors for over 40 years. In recent years, The Fairgrounds Complex has attracted and increased galore of low season events to bring more and more tourists to Sussex County each year.

Fair Dated and Hours

Guests can visit the Fair from August 2 to 10. The fairgrounds events start at 5 pm on August 2 and last until 10 pm. On weekdays, the Fair runs from noon to 10 p.m. and on weekends from 10 am to 10 pm.

Fair Events and Entertainment

Sussex County Fairgrounds offer ten days of family fun and entertainment featuring agricultural and livestock exhibits, an impressive midway with carnival rides, games, competitions, horse shows, interactive children’s activities, live music, over 40 types of craft and merchandise stalls, food, vendors and more.

At the New Jersey State Fair, kids can learn a lot about agriculture and enjoy animal rides, and petting zoo, watch racing pigs and other exciting events. The fair attracts about 135,000 attendees every year.

Tickets and Parking

Adult Ticket (ages 13-59) at the gates cost $15, Child Ticket (ages 6-12)—$5, Seniors (ages 60+)—$10, and Veterans/Active Military—$7. Also, visitors can purchase tickets in advance from May 1–August 2. Adult Ticket (ages 13-59) is for $12, Child Ticket (ages 6-12)—$4, Senior (ages 60+)—$8, and VIP 9-Day Pass is for $80. Parking is free in the fields surrounding the fairgrounds.

In 2024, fair guests will be able to visit events that have long become favorites for regular visitors, such as the Lumber Jack/Lumber Jill Competition, Planet Networks Performing Arts Tent, Nate the Great Joggling Show, Mountain Bike Shows, BMX Show, Hot Dog Pig Races, Circus Incredible Display, Power Racing Series, Monster Truck Show, Carnival, and much more. It is important to note that some events are free, and some require additional payment.

Fair Ban

The Fairgrounds do not allow pets. There is, however, an exception for guests with service animals. Smoking is not permitted on the Fairgrounds during the Fair. Tobacco, vaping, and cannabis all fall under this category.

New Jersey State Fair Mission

The organizers approach the creation of the annual fair with great love and see their goal as showcasing New Jersey's agriculture, providing safe, family-friendly entertainment and engaging educational activities, promoting youth development and providing support to charitable non-profit agencies.