We have reached the halfway point of the summer. You probably hit the beach and pool already, and think you've run out of things to do before the dreaded back-to-school shopping begins. Hopefully, you checked out the Monmouth County Fair and it reminded you that there's still a lot of summer left. With plenty of good food, rides and entertainment, who wouldn't want to attend? For those who think that a fair is boring or not their type of night out, this article is here to show you why as a resident or a visitor to Monmouth County you want to come and spend the night at the fair with your friends or family. I, like many of you, have plenty of memories of going to the Fair with my family, and usually nothing but the weather can stop me from going.

1. Community comes together

One of the best parts of the fair is seeing all the local business and county officials out in one place. You can also visit with your local politician (who most likely is looking for your vote come November). Also, you will see people from all different departments that are here to talk to you about concerns in your community. Usually everyone from Public Works to Department of Health agencies are there, and if you got questions, they should have answers. Another plus is seeing the local businesses there are or looking to get word out. When you see one be sure to go up and find out more about them. Local business are a big part to communities and this is there chance to show you what they do.

2. Rides

The fair is no Six Flags: Great Adventure, but you can still find something to get a thrill on. There are rides are for ages and sizes. Last year, the fair added more rides for children and I noticed the lines at the ticket booths looked a little longer. The kiddies defiantly were looking to get on them and the parents were left with empty pocket books after the night. Even some of the adult rides looked to be getting attention of teens who didn't want to drive out to Seaside Heights that night.

3. Food

If you're not into rides, check out the many food stands that the fair offers. Everything from cheese stake to ice cream cones are available and ready to be eaten. In fact, there is a whole section that turns into a food court and is better then your local mall. Not only do they offer the basics, but food that you don't normally eat will most likely be there. Food such as deep-fired Oreos or caramel popcorn not something you likely find at your local ShopRite.

4. Animals

Even though you grew up locally, you most likely saw animals or visited a nearby zoo. At the Monmouth County Fair you we not only see your average horse you will see animals that are award winning in some way or another. You also get to see the families that own them and can talk to them on their history and how much they mean to them as family members. Kids line up to feed the goats and chickens, and that puts a smile on most people's faces.

5. Entertainment

Why go if you're not being entertained, right? the fair offers plenty of it. With crazy shows involving pigs or horses whats not to love? Some shows or educational and some are just there to make you laugh. You could have learned about fire safety or how to have a great garden.The fair offered comedy and magic shows. There was also racing pigs and the pie eating contest is a fan favorite of most. If you're a fan of pies, you're going to want to check that out. With clowns and other artists walking around you will never know what you will get.