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The 2024 New Jersey State Fair begins today at the Sussex County Fairgrounds in Augusta, offering a range of family-friendly events and activities. The fair, which runs from August 2 to 10, is a celebration of New Jersey's agriculture and offers educational activities, youth development programs, and support to local non-profit agencies.
The fair's events include livestock competitions, food tasting competitions, 4-H competitions and exhibitions, crafts, and AHSA-sanctioned horse competitions, including the Sussex County Grand Prix and the Show Jumping Hall of Fame Amateur-Owner Classic. The fair also features a variety of entertainment, from monster trucks to art exhibits, a petting zoo, pig races, and musical performances.
The fair began 100 years ago as the Sussex County Horse Show and has grown into a regional tourist attraction. Despite its growth, the event has maintained its connection to its agricultural roots.
The fair is open rain or shine with free parking. After opening day, the carnival runs from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekends and noon to 10 p.m. on weekdays. For those sensitive to loud noises and flashy lights, the fair offers a sensory-friendly experience on Tuesday, Aug. 6 from 12 to 2 p.m.