It's Fair time

Augusta — The 2009 New Jersey State Fair, Sussex County Farm and Horse Show opens Friday, July 31 and runs through Sunday, Aug. 9. From flower and garden shows to a butterfly farm on display, horse shows and a beef obstacle course to the carnival area, musical entertainment and evening fireworks, the fair is the mid-summer highlight for Sussex County and beyond. Here are just a few of the daily features: July 31: 4-H Show-de-oo; Animal storytimes; Cyclocross Bike Race Aug. 1: Beer and wine contest; Scarecrow construction Aug. 2: Chili Cookoff; the Great New Jersey Zucchini Contest weigh-in Aug. 3: Pajama Day — Donate a new pair of kids pajamas at the front gate and receive a free set of tickets for a return visit to the 2009 Fair. Aug. 4: Children’s Day; Rooster crowing contest; 1910 FruitGum Company in Concert Aug. 5: Monster truck rides; Little Royalty contests; ChoirFest featuring the church choirs of Sussex County. Aug. 6: Sussex County Senior Day; Polish Night and Polka dance competition Aug. 7: Dog Show; tractor pull Aug. 8: Sussex County Talent Day; Honey Bee demonstration Aug. 9: Oxen pull, auction of chainsaw art For info: www.newjerseystatefair.org or call 973-948-5500.