The Cape May County 4-H Fair returns on July 17-18-19 at the Cape May County 4-H Fairgrounds. Celebrating its 54th year at this location, the fair’s theme “Country Roots and Cowboy Boots!” promises an adventure-filled experience. With a lineup of traditional fair activities and exciting live entertainment, this year’s fair is set to be an absolute blast! Best of all, admission is FREE!

The fair begins with a Grand Opening Parade at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 17, followed by the fair’s Opening Ceremonies. Other highlights include a baby chick “Peep Show,” horse costume events, and the annual hog and lamb market auction on Thursday night at 6:30 p.m. in the Coover Pavilion livestock barn. For young visitors, don’t miss the Children’s Discovery Area, located under a circle of shady trees, and full of fun, exploratory adventures for the littles. Come on out to the 4-H Fair where you will see over 150 4-Hers in action!

On Thursday, July 17, kick off the fair with Country music entertainer, Derek Warner from 6 to 9 p.m. Prepare to be entertained by Jimmy and the Parrots, a “trop-rock,” island- music band that has been delighting audiences for over 20 years. Jimmy and the Parrots take their high-energy, Jimmy Buffet-style music all over the United States as well as the Caribbean on Friday, July 18 from 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday night’s headliner is none other than The Fabulous Greaseband, a seven-piece band that performs all the best dance songs from the ‘50s through the ‘90s. This highly entertaining and energetic band has been delivering the greatest dance songs ever written for over 52 years. The Fabulous Greaseband storms the stage Saturday, July 19 from 7 to 10 p.m. But the fun doesn’t stop there!

Dive into one of the culinary highlights of the 4-H Fair and a Cape May County tradition for over 75 years, the famous Chicken BBQ is served nightly starting at 5 p.m. Sponsored by the Cape May County Board of Agriculture, the mouthwatering Chicken Bar-B-Que sells out quickly each evening. Tickets will go on sale starting at 4 pm each day at the Fairgrounds. There will be no advance sales of tickets this year.

Don’t miss out on the thrilling Pet Show on Saturday, July 19 at beginning at 10 a.m., where furry contestants can win a year’s supply of pet food courtesy of Smeltzer & Sons Feed & Pet Supplies. The pet show features an array of fun classes for all sorts of pets including dogs, cats, birds, tortoises, chickens, reptiles and more.

What would a 4H Fair be without exciting horse shows and livestock exhibitions? Witness various equestrian events, including jumping, dressage, and western riding. Talented riders will showcase their skills, and there might even be some friendly competitions. Don’t miss the livestock exhibitions showcasing a diverse range of livestock, including cows, pigs, sheep, goats, and more. At the 4-H Fair, youth members proudly present their well-groomed animals to judges and visitors. It’s a great opportunity to learn about different breeds, animal care, and agriculture.

Amusement rides like the Big Slide, Tubs of Fun, a Roller Coaster, Train, carnival games, and more will be buzzing on the 4-H Fairground’s Midway. The Float Boat Company, RC2U portable racing monster trucks, and Gelly Ball will return to delight young and old alike. Over 60 vendors will be located at the fair midway featuring a wide variety of fun foods, local handmade crafts and merchandise. Don’t miss the children’s discovery area and art show too!

Limited premium parking is available at the Atlantic Cape Community College campus, located next door to the fairgrounds, for $10. Free parking is available at the Cape May County Park and Zoo with free, air-conditioned shuttle service to the fair provided by Fare Free Transportation. Buses are comfortable, air-conditioned, and fully handicapped accessible. Please note: The 4-H Fair allows well-behaved, leashed dogs on the grounds. Retractable leashes are not allowed. Please bring water for your pet.

Hours for the 2025 Cape May County 4-H Fair are 3 to 10 p.m. on Thursday, July 17 and from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday, July 18 (All vendors will be open by 3 p.m.) and Saturday, July 19. The 4-H fairgrounds are located at 355 Court House – S. Dennis Road in Cape May Court House, New Jersey. Call 609-465-5115. www.capemay.njaes.rutgers.edu/fair