Berkeley Township, NJ — The Ocean County Fair is set to reopen Sunday for its final day after severe thunderstorms and flooding forced organizers to close the fairgrounds Saturday evening due to safety concerns.
Fair officials announced that heavy rain left significant flooding across the property, creating hazardous conditions around electrical equipment and wiring.
“Unfortunately, due to the severe storm and significant flooding throughout the fairgrounds, the Ocean County Fair will remain closed for the rest of tonight,” organizers said in a statement Saturday.
Flooding created safety concerns
Officials said standing water near electrical systems made it unsafe to continue operating the fair.
“With standing water near electrical equipment and wiring, reopening would not be safe for our guests, vendors or staff,” the statement said. “We are incredibly sorry. We truly hoped to welcome everyone back tonight.”
Saturday’s closure came as strong thunderstorms moved through Ocean County, bringing heavy rain that caused localized flooding across the region.
Free admission offered for affected guests
Organizers said teachers who were scheduled to receive free admission Saturday night may instead use that offer Sunday.
Guests who purchased a green wristband for Saturday may also return on the fair’s final day at no additional charge. Officials said visitors should bring the wristband to the entrance, even if it has already been cut off.
“Tomorrow is the final day of the fair, and we hope you’ll join us for one last day,” organizers said.
The Ocean County Fair is scheduled to conclude Sunday.
Source: Ocean County Fair.
