State Fair Meadowlands to offer free rain insurance

After getting slammed with record rainfall in the region during the past several weeks, the State Fair Meadowlands in E. Rutherford, NJ, is offering a first to fairgoers during the 18-day event that runs June 25-July 12 -- free rain insurance.

The fair will validate ticket stubs that will be good for any other day during the fair if rain falls continuously for more than 30 minutes before 9 p.m. Opening night was the only exception. Since the start of the fair, weather conditions have been dry. However, the upcoming forecast this week includes isolated thunderstorms.

"A little rain here and there can be expected, but getting hammered with rain nearly every day this month has everyone more than a bit waterlogged and looking for sunnier, warmer days," Al Dorso, president of State Fair Meadowlands, said in a statement. "We're not letting the rain put a damper on our spirits. In fact, we're expecting the sun to break out this week and expecting record attendance, especially in light of what we're seeing with our advance ticket sales, which can still be purchased via our website at NJFair.com."

Weekday admission for children 12 and younger is $5; $6 on holidays and weekends. Adult admission is $7 weekdays; $9 weekends and holidays. Parking is $3, except on Dollar Night and Carload Night.

The 18-day fair includes more than 150 rides, pig races, an educational petting zoo, a wildlife gallery and nightly entertainment.

(This story was edited at 9:55am EST July 1, 2009, to properly reflect the name of the fair.)