I vividly remember sitting in my parents mini-van at the Sussex County Fairgrounds, around the age of six-year-olds, the thunder rattling the car, the lightening flashing in the night sky, and the vibrant lights from the carnival rides shining in my blue eyes. I was crying, begging my parents not to leave the parking lot, insisting that the storm would pass and that I desperately needed to ride the dragon roller coaster. I had even worn my sneakers so that I could go in the funhouse that included the slide at the end that required close-toed shoes. My six-year-old brain simply could not fathom the fact that the fantasy-land of The Fair was a short five minute drive from our house and that we could come back tomorrow. Not too much has changed in my sentiments toward The New Jersey State Fair and Sussex County Farm and Horse Show in the last 13 years, I still feel the same desperate need for a day at the fair. A summer simply would not be the same.

Although the sentiments remain the same, my choice of activities has changed immensely. My interest in the carnival rides has subsided. This is probably due to the number of times I have ridden the Starship 2000 and turned a sickly green color. It may also have something to do with the fact that I have realized how quickly these rides can be set up and taken down, making me question the safely of a roller coaster repeatedly spinning me upside down. I no longer have a reason to rush to buy the infamous Mega Pass and the thrill of wandering the grounds in large groups of giggling and gossiping friends without parents has quickly subsided. My dedication to the fair persists for different reasons now.

I love the fair for the sense of community it delivers to my small, New Jersey hometown. It makes me proud to see past teachers, childhood friends, and sports coaches selling tickets, serving food, and scooping ice cream. I feel a love for Sussex County represented by those who choose to debut their work in the craft tent, display their animals in shows and promote their businesses by offering free pens or fun contests. The fair delivers an opportunity for local rotary groups to fundraise, my family's personal favorite is the Branchville Rotary offering simple roast beef and turkey sandwiches and iced tea at an affordable price, while also giving us the chance to say "Hello!" to my grandfather who helps serve-up the sandwiches. The fair brings Sussex County together encouraging its residents to rejoice its many talents and passions. A trip to the fair is not complete without wandering through the rabbit exhibit searching for the rabbit with the best name or the fluffiest hair, without cheering for a pig in the notorious pig races, or without enjoying a scoop of delicious, homemade ice cream from the local 4H booth.

It is important to recognize that the New Jersey State Fair and Sussex County Farm and Horse Show is representative of many peoples' successes and livelihoods. Many artists, farmers, and businesses spend the year preparing for The Fair's festivities in order to continue to produce the unforgettable experience that the fair offers to Sussex County residents and beyond.

Unfortunately, to most, the fair signifies the impending end to summer vacation. In my opinion, the fair is the perfect end to a summer and start to a new year. It offers my friends and I a carefree 10 days before heading back to colleges that are miles apart. The fair allows friends and family to come together and celebrate the greatness of New Jersey and Sussex County while indulging in greasy funnel cakes and long lasting memories. From pushing around my mini-shopping cart in the Ronetco Shop Rite Farm Fun Building to watching good friends in the Queen of the Fair pageant, the fair and the beautiful union of New Jersey residents continues to foster within me, a deeper appreciation for my Sussex County, New Jersey roots.