I’m not shy about saying it – we do things a little bigger and better in New Jersey! That extends to our summer festivals, and they don’t get any bigger and better than the State Fair Meadowlands. This massive event kicks off on June 20th and is set to run through July 7th, and all 17 days will be packed with fun, food, rides, and every other attraction you can dream of from dawn to dusk. This longtime summer event is the center of many people’s summer plans, and is definitely one of the best things to do in summer in New Jersey. The only question every visitor is left to answer? Where to start! The big event has so much to do that it can feel a little overwhelming, so we’re here to help you break down the best of the best that you won’t want to miss at New Jersey’s best summer party.
Found in the shadow of the massive Metlife Stadium, the State Fair Meadowlands is New Jersey's biggest summer event.
The entire area is taken over by a massive collection of carnival rides and other attractions, plus stadiums and all the food you can eat!
In addition to roller coasters and flat rides, there are some amazing interactive attractions that kids will love.
This includes Jurassic Kingdom, an innovative show where kids can get up close and personal with realistic dinosaurs.
That's just scratching the surface - the live entertainment here is incredible, including stunt shows, bands, and even a Brazilian dance troupe.
State fairs typically have agricultural roots, and this one is no different - you won't want to miss the adorable piggy races!
Then there's the food - there are hundreds of vendors here, and they're deep-frying everything they can get their hands on!
But you can have a full meal here - there are plenty of hearty meat options along-side deep-fried sweets aplenty.
You'll want to stay until the sun goes down, and that goes double on July 3rd and 4th...
Because that's when the State Fair Meadowlands puts on one of the best fireworks shows in. the whole state!
Have you visited the State Fair Meadowlands in past years? What are your favorite things to do at this massive summer festival in New Jersey? Let us know in the comments section! You can buy your tickets and any additional experiences you want on the State Fair Meadowlands website, and you can follow the website of this massive New Jersey state fair to see what they’re announcing as the event kicks off! While you’re in the area, the massive American Dream mega-mall is only minutes away. If you’re setting up camp in the area for the duration of the fair, we highly recommend the Homewood Suites by Hilton East Rutherford – it’s a home away from home with a lot of great perks like a free hot breakfast buffet.