It Wouldn’t Be Summer In Jersey Without It

Every summer I look forward to the state fair at the Meadowlands. My enthusiasm is chiefly based on my love for rickety carnival rides. Far more exciting than anything at a major theme park, the rides at the fair invoke that little, lingering fear that a structurally significant bolt will pop out at any moment.

Last year, I rode all my favorites – I don’t know what the fair actually calls them, but there are comparable equivalents at pretty much any fair or amusement park – the Gravitron, the Himalaya, the Pirate Ship, basically anything that spins me around or swings me back and forth at dizzying speeds is a good bet. The best and most unique ride at the fair is the Crazy Mouse. It’s a roller coaster with cars shaped like giant mouse heads, which spin around on wheels while riding forward along the track. When that mouse head really picks up steam and takes a hard turn, you almost feel like you’re going to go flying off into the glittering parking lot below. It’s awesome.

But if defying death is not part of your summer schedule, there is a wide variety of activities to be enjoyed, so you’re bound to find something to entertain you.

For example, the fair boasts a broad range of games and activities. If you like to be knowingly swindled, try your hand at a game of skill such as shoot-a-ball-through-a-tiny-hoop. Or, if you need a birthday present for Mom, grab a stool at the sand art booth and make her some crafts. There’s also a petting zoo with your standard goats and sheep, plus some freaky animals like emus. On my last trip to the fair, I caught a free lions-and-tigers show, during which the gorgeous animals gave the trainer/emcee some really threatening looks while they performed “tricks” such as sitting still on a stool and walking across a beam. Even more intriguing than that, if you can imagine, is the “One-Armed Juggler” they’ve got this year. Sounds like a must-see.

Another must-see, or so the fair claims, is the ever-mysterious freak show. Last year, I declined the vibrant advertisements to see the world’s tiniest horse, fattest man, and beardy-est lady for the following reasons: 1) I didn’t really expect to see anything that amazing, 2) there was a separate admission fee, and 3) if there was anything really freaky going on in there, I would’ve felt guilty for gawking and exploiting the performers (did anyone see Follow That Bird?). But if your curiosity gets the better of you and you happen to check it out, let me know what’s in there.

(Of course, there is plenty of free, less obvious gawking to be had - this is Jersey after all.)

There are many more attractions to be seen at this year’s fair. Check their website for a full schedule of fireworks displays, magic shows, and contests (including celebrity look-alike, cutest baby, and most adorable pet). While the prices for ride tickets are suspiciously absent from the official website, I can tell you for sure that adult admission on the weekend is $9. A packet of tickets big enough to get you on a satisfactory amount of rides will probably cost an additional $20 or so. For the savings-seeker, there’s also a $20 Mega Pass that can be purchased via their website or over the phone, which covers admission and unlimited rides from open to close. Keep in mind that all games, certain activities, and parking are not included in the admission ticket, and remember to factor in the overpriced food stands if you’re arriving with an appetite.

Most importantly, make sure to save a few extra bucks for the freak show.

Meadowlands State Fair
Giants Stadium Fairgrounds
Route 3 West, East Rutherford
June 21-July 8 2007
www.njfair.com

— by Nicole Little
Nicole, GoOutJersey's associate editor, is a Nutley native and recent Weehawken transplant. She loves dining out and imposing her opinions on others, which makes her a well-qualified reviewer.

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