Press release from St. Mary’s Fair Executive Committee

Regular readers of redbankgreen know the annual Fair Haven Fireman’s Fair as the August event that gives local families one last blast of summer fun before thoughts turn inexorably to school supplies and adjusted bedtimes. But on the other side of what we call the Greater Green — and at the other end of the school’s-out season — another eagerly anticipated carnival has been pitching its tent at the heart of community life for generations.

Back for its 73rd annual edition, The Great St. Mary Fair opens tonight, June 27, running through Saturday, July 2 on the grounds of St. Mary Mother of God Parish in the New Monmouth section of Middletown. Beginning each night at 6:30 p.m., the fair will feature rides and games for the entire family to enjoy.

For the second year in a row, every one of the event’s six dates will be “Bracelet Night,” with the special bracelets (allowing unlimited access to the featured rides) available for purchase on-site. The 2016 edition will feature live entertainment every night, as well as an expanded “Kids Zone” with even more rides and attractions. Local vendors will bring their fare to the Food Court, while the “Super 50/50 Raffle” and the Car Raffle both return as traditional staples of the event.

The Great St. Mary Fair invites the public to come and bring neighbors, family members, and friends for a wonderful night out, with proceeds helping to support the church’s many community programs. Please contact the Parish Office at (732)671-0071 for weather-related inquiries and any additional questions.