

Beginning Tuesday, August 15, the annual Rotary Fair and Business Expo will once again transform the Hillsborough Promenade (315 Route 206) into a classic carnival with a colorful midway, over 20 amusement rides, games of chance, fireworks, food vendors and an exposition of local businesses.
“We are very proud to host this annual Hillsborough family tradition,” commented Shawn Lipani, incoming president of the Rotary Club of Hillsborough and Hillsborough’s mayor. “The Fair not only offers our community a fun summer event, but it raises the funds that enable our Rotary Club to help support numerous important community service initiatives. This year, we are grateful to welcome Newark-based Construction Pros, LLC, as this year’s Rotary Fair “Gold Sponsor.”
The Rotary Fair will open for five days beginning Tuesday, August 15. Fair hours are 6 – 10 PM on Tuesday through Thursday, and 6 – 11 PM on Friday and Saturday.
In addition to the Fair’s classic thrill rides, food vendors, games of chance and an exposition of local businesses, a spectacular fireworks display by Interstate Fireworks and sponsored by Petrock’s Bar & Grille and Petrock’s Liquors, will light up Hillsborough skies on Friday evening, August 18, at approximately 10 PM (rain date of Saturday August 19, 10 PM).
Cashless Ride Payment System
The Rotary Fair will once again feature a cashless payment system for all Fair rides. Patrons will purchase a special wristband at kiosks available throughout the Fairgrounds. The wrist bands are then used in place of tickets to gain entry to the rides. The cost of each ride will be automatically deducted from the amount of money on the wristband. A $35, all-night-long ride access purchase option is available every night, or patrons may choose a different dollar amount appropriate for only select rides. The food and game vendors will continue to accept only cash.
As in years past, there will be a Giant 50/50 Raffle that has resulted in a multi-thousand-dollar payout to a single winner. The winning ticket will be selected Saturday evening, August 19, at the Fair. The winner need not be present at the time of the drawing. Tickets will be available for purchase throughout the Fair dates for $5 each. As always, all proceeds raised at the Fair are used to fund a wide variety of contributions and service projects benefitting the local community.
Local Business Exposition
The Fair also offers local businesses with multiple opportunities to showcase their services and connect directly with customers through the purchase of a $300 sign displayed at the Fair throughout the week, or the purchase of a $600 tented space that provides an opportunity to meet and talk with attendees.
“Meeting prospective customers at a highly regarded community event can do a great deal to boost a company’s image and customer base,” noted Ken Genco, the Rotary Club of Hillsborough member in charge of the business showcase. “Community members deeply appreciate those businesses that demonstrate their community support through events like this.”
For more information on participating in the Business Expo, please contact Ken Genco at 908-229-5045, kgenco@att.net.