JON S. CORZINE
Governor

Nina Mitchell Wells
Secretary of State

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 6, 2008

Contact: Jennifer Stringfellow
609.292.7138

August In New Jersey: The Shore And So Much More

TRENTON, N.J.—As New Jersey basks in yet another gorgeous summer, residents and visitors alike continue to venture throughout the Garden State to enjoy an abundance of diverse events, sites and attractions.. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the month of August – the height of the state’s summer season, and period when the state’s unparalleled appeal as a tourism destination truly shines.

Of course, the cornerstone of this appeal is the state’s 127-miles of beautiful Atlantic coastline, home to the communities, beaches, boardwalks, rides, amusements and ambiance -- the quintessential American shore experience.

Yet as anyone who has ever experienced their own personal “Garden State Getaway,” can attest, the state’s treasures are as far reaching as its considerable scenic beauty. From renowned historical riches, world-class cultural and performing arts venues, family-oriented theme parks, and some of finest nightlife, dining and shopping opportunities anywhere in the Northeast, there’s little doubt that New Jersey can meet the most demanding of tastes and interests.

Here’s a sampling of the wonderful events to consider throughout the state to fill out your family’s monthly calendar for August.

Every Friday throughout the month, discover the rich heritage of Rutgers University in New Brunswick, one of America’s oldest and most renowned institutions of higher education. Guests embarking on the Rutgers Historical Tour (732-932-4636) will explore the origins of the University, its traditions, and architectural points of interest including, but not limited to, some its oldest buildings and historic landmarks. For more information, visit http://ruinfo.rutgers.edu/visitingRU/historictours/.

Plan a memorable day-trip or romantic getaway amid the picturesque Victorian splendor of Cape May and one of its many signature attractions, Historic Cold Spring Village as it hosts the 23rd Annual Antique Show and Sale (609-898-2300) August 9-10. The annual spectacular features displays of country and Victorian furniture along with other unique, varied collectibles and antique toys. Visit www.hcsv.org for more information.

New Jersey has long taken pride in its rich equine heritage, whether it’s the annual running of the Haskell and the Hambletonian, or as home of the U.S. Equestrian Team. The gorgeous 147-acre Horse Park of New Jersey in Allentown. will host the Festival of Horses (609-984-4389) on August 10. This fabulous, family-oriented event showcases the various breeds of horses found in the Garden State. More information can be found at www.horseparkofnewjersey.com.

Summertime in New Jersey means many things, foremost among them a collection of terrific local and countywide fairs throughout the state. From August 14-17, the Colts Neck Country Fair (732-462-8500) will dazzle and delights children and adults alike with great food, rides, games, music and more. Likewise, the Hunterdon County 4-H & Agricultural Fair (908-782-6809) August 20-24 in Lambertville will offer rides, games and great entertainment, all amid an abundance of Jersey Fresh produce, leaving no doubt why New Jersey is affectionately dubbed “the Garden State.” For more information, visit www.coltsneckfair.com and/or www.co.hunterdon.nj.us/4hagfair.htm.

Close out an eventful August by visiting a host of wonderful arts & crafts shows throughout the state during its final weekend. On August 30, Ocean City will host the Labor Day Arts & Crafts Extravaganza (800-822-4112, www.ocnj.us) featuring fine crafters, artists, and gourmet food specialists from nine states. Also beginning August 30, craft items from country, primitive, folk art and contemporary will be on display at the Labor Day Craft Show (717-656-3208, www.handcraft-unlimited.com) in Wildwood. On August 31, Nutley and Red Bank will host their respective Street Fair & Craft Shows (908-654-1400, www.streetfairs.org) boasting the work of fine artisans throughout their historic and scenic downtown landscapes.

Last, but certainly not least, Budd Lake will be the sitet of Scandinavian Fest ’08 (610-868-7525, www.ScanFest.org) on August 31. This huge, eventful day-long gathering will feature cuisine, crafts, entertainment, kids’ events, live discussions, re-enactors and more.

For more information on festival and events featuring music, food and ethnic heritage, art and culture, performing arts, antique and craft shows, theatrical productions, holiday specials, Revolutionary War re-enactments, historical sites and museums and much more, visit www.visitnj.org or call 800-VISITNJ to download a free copy of the New Jersey Festival & Events guide or to receive a free copy of the state’s flagship tourism publication, the 2008 New Jersey Travel Guide.