NJ Carnivals & Fairs Happening in August
A favorite memory of mine is when I was a teen and attended the NJ State Fair @ the Meadowlands with my friends each June. It was like a ritual to mark the beginning of summer for me and my friends. I don’t quite remember how we got there before we could drive, but I surely remember going through the (corny) funhouses, watching pig races (are those even a thing anymore?), volunteering my friends to get sawed in half, and watching the fireworks from the ferris wheel as we sip on cans of soda we snuck on in the guys’ cargo shorts pockets. It was a time that I was young, carefree, and could eat as many chicken tenders, french fries, cheesesteaks, zepoles, Italian icees, and cotton candy as I pleased without gaining a since ounce.
Now I view them differently. Fairs and carnivals across New Jersey offer fun for the whole family, with exciting rides, tasty treats, classic games, and live entertainment everyone can enjoy. Whether you're riding the Ferris wheel, sharing funnel cake, or winning that oversized stuffed animal, these events are a great way to make summer memories together. This August, there are a bunch of family-friendly fairs and carnivals happening around New Jersey!
Here’s a list by date:
NJ State Fair @ Sussex County: August 1–9, 2025
Advanced ticket prices available online until July 31, 2025. There are a bunch of special promotion and discount days, wristband days, and a Megapass available for purchase.
Salem County Fair: August 4-8, 2025
While this doesn’t offer rides and the hooplah of a carnival, this fair is jam packed with different shows, pony rides, a food tent, contests, and fireworks.
Middlesex County Fair: August 4-10, 2025
Early bird pricing available online until August 3, 2025. This fair offers rides, food, shows, and plenty of entertainment to keep your family busy all day and night.
Leonia Sports Booster Carnival: August 13-17, 2025
Presale pricing available online until August 12th at midnight. Rides, games, food, and entertainment are sure to make your entire family happy. This carnival is located in a large county park. Make it a full day by going to the playground, going horseback riding, kayaking, or just lounging out with beautiful views.
Passaic County Fair: August 14-17 2025
This large fair at Garrett Mountain in Paterson and West Paterson features rides, games, a petting zoo, face painting, entertainment, a blood drive, a Touch-A-Truck event, fireworks, and even a beer garden! Prices to be announced.
Hunterdon County 4-H & Agricultural Fair: August 20-24, 2025
Rides, races, entertainment, food, and games are sure to fill your day with fun! Prices to be announced.