As you walk onto the grounds at the Robert J. Miller Airpark during the Ocean County Fair, you get a sense that this is what summer is all about. The sound of carnival rides and the smell of corndogs and funnel cake waft through the air.
Sunday, July 15 is the last day the fair is open, and runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
According to Manager O.J. "Chip" Meyer, the fair has grown over its 66-year history, going from a one-day animal show to a full six-day event.
“We have everything from animals, rides, games, shows and community events, to everything in between,” Meyer said. “We have pig races, and the rides are really big this year. We have a new ride company this year.”
Some of the more popular attractions at the fair were the Zipper ride, the pony rides, the ferris wheel and the live animal tents.
A rescue shelter from Jackson was even on hand with live wolves that patrons could see and for a nominal fee, could pet and have their picture taken with. Two of the wolves at the fair, Sierra and Sampson, were even featured in the movie “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice.”
The shelter, Howling Winds Farm, is a wolf and wolf dog rescue shelter. Mike Hodamish started the farm and the goal is to rescue wolves and educate those who are interested.
“The fair is a great event for us,” Hodamish said. “These are fundraisers for us, as well as a way to let the public know we are here.
The fair will feature a women’s iron skillet throw on Sunday at 1 p.m.
Did you go to the fair this week? Share your pictures with us here.
