4-H Fair opens in Chester Twp.

CHESTER TWP. – The annual Morris County 4-H Fair will kick off on today at Chubb Park and run through the weekend.

The event, which showcases the animals and projects of 4-H youths from across Morris County, also includes pony rides, hay rides, a petting zoo, animal shows, fireworks, tricky tray, car and motorcycle show, watermelon eating and cake decorating contests, live entertainment and amusement rides.

“The 4-H Fair is a showcase and celebration of the wonderful achievements of 4-Hers from around the county. It is great opportunity for all in the community to come out for wholesome family fun,” said Kelly Dziak, Morris County 4-H Program Associate.

“Most important, this is about the hard work of these great 4-H kids, who represent some of the best of our youth, and who are likely future leaders of their communities and Morris County,’’ said Morris County Freeholder Director Kathy DeFillippo, who will participate in formal opening ceremonies at the fair this week.

The Fair will be open on Wednesday, 6-10 p.m.; Thursday, 4-10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free, and parking is $5, except for a $10 charge on Friday after 6 p.m. for fireworks night.

Dogs may be brought to the fair, but they must be on a 6-foot leash. Retractable leashes are not allowed in the park. Canine Good Citizen testing will be available for dogs to take on Saturday from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. A small fee applies. Participants must bring a dog brush for a portion of the test, according to a press release from the county.

Daily schedules of events, such as dog and small animal shows, and fairground maps will be available in the information booth at the fair, the release said.

The Exhibit Tent will include arts and crafts entries, informational displays, and hands-on activities for visitors. The Entertainment Tent will feature live musical performances and interactive demonstrations.

Other tents will house animals, including dogs, horses, goats, reptiles, poultry, rabbits, and other small animals. Most animal tents will have petting areas, in addition to a Petting Barn that will be filled with farm animals.

The fair is sponsored by the Morris County 4-H Association in support of the 4-H Youth Development Program of Rutgers Cooperative Extension.

For more information about the 4-H Fair, 4-H clubs, or about becoming a 4-H volunteer, visit the 4-H Fair website at http://morris.njaes.rutgers.edu/4h/Fair.html or call 973-285-8301.