Recently, I wrote about and put together a full list of street fairs and county fairs happening here in The Great Garden State (more on those in a bit). For me, it's always exciting to start thinking about the warmer weather and festivities that come with this time of year.

Before my current role as a content writer and on-air host, I took the station vehicle out to events all over the Garden State. Events often varied but they were all amazing because it gave us an opportunity to meet you.

Some of those events ranged from concerts, golf outings, trivia nights, live radio broadcasts, and more. And of course, street fairs and county fairs as mentioned above.

It's a great time of year, and I honestly hope that as the year progresses, I'll have more opportunities to meet you in person. Events in New Jersey are simply fantastic, hands down.

2015 Somerville Street Fair
New Jersey 101.5 Prize Team
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So after I published this year's street fairs and county fairs, I noticed some comments regarding the events. And to be honest, it was something I never expected to see.

There were a handful of New Jerseyans who were uninterested in attending any of the events at all. Now they weren't rude about it, but the reasoning made me take a step back for a moment to reflect on the time we're in today.

They were worried about going to any outdoor activity because they didn't feel safe anymore. And there were a lot of people who shared that same concern.

It's sad, but I totally understand that. With so many things we here happening in the news, who can blame them for not feeling safe at a public event?

Facebook/Sea Hear Now Festival 2023
Facebook/Sea Hear Now Festival 2023
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But digging deeper, it also had more to do with how divided we've become in today's heated political world. The thought of violence happening over a political dispute was enough to keep some folks away from wanting to attend anything at all.

And I'll be honest with you, it really disappoints me that it's come to that for some people. There's absolutely no reason why we should feel nervous about one another when we're all at a place for one common reason - to have a good time.

A major plus is that New Jersey is one of the safest states in the nation thanks to our stellar law enforcement. Without them, we couldn't have as many events as we do today.

Italian Festival in New Jersey
TSM Illustration
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It is a scary world, but there's no reason why we shouldn't be able to get out and enjoy ourselves. New Jersey is full of outdoor fun that's safe for all. Please don't be afraid to join us.

As long as we all keep our disagreements at the gate, we'll be fine. Let's make this a great year for outdoor activities that are safe, friendly, and fun.

NJ Street Fairs are back! See the latest 2024 schedule

All New Jersey street fairs are listed in date order. New locations may be added as the year progresses so please check back often for updates.

Gallery Credit: Mike Brant

It's here! The complete 2024 NJ county fair summer schedule

A list of county fairs happening across the Garden State for 2024. From rides, food, animals, and hot air balloons, each county fair has something unique to offer.

(Fairs are listed in geographical order from South NJ to North NJ)

Gallery Credit: Mike Brant

The above post reflects the thoughts and observations of New Jersey 101.5 Sunday morning host Mike Brant. Any opinions expressed are his own.