42nd annual Monmouth County fair, July 27-31

Summer is right around the corner which means it is almost time for the annual Monmouth County fair.

The fair will be held at East Freehold Showgrounds located on Kozloski Road in Freehold. The fair begins on Wednesday July 27 and runs through Saturday July 31. Hours are 5-11 PM on Wednesday the 27th through Friday the 29th, 3-

11 PM on Saturday the 30th, and 11am-6PM on Sunday the 31st.

This year promises to be a fun time for all ages with pie-eating contests, home and garden competitions, and an exciting trapeze act. Food trucks will also be added this year to go along with the traditional fair food.

There will also be live music every night. Wednesday fairgoers will enjoy a live performance from the Amish Outlaws, Thursday will feature Dr. Cheeko, and Rockit Count Basie Live will play Friday night. Rounding out the performers are Jet Weston and His Atomic Ranch Hands and The Chuck Lambert Band on Saturday and Sunday night respectively.

This year's premium fair rides are provided by Reithoffer Shows. Ride wristbands will be available during the fair on Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday for $25 per person. Wristbands allow fairgoers to enjoy unlimited rides. Tickets for the rides will be available daily.

General admission is $8 per person, however children 12 and under are admitted free at all times. For more information about the Monmouth County Fair, visit monmouthcountyparks.com or call 732-842-4000. For anyone with a hearing impairment, the TTY/TDD number is 711.