Carnivals and state fairs are beloved summer traditions. There’s no better place for the whole family to enjoy rides, food, music and fun than at 2025 L.E.A.D. FEST events. Bigger and better than ever, this year’s events include carnivals and a 10-day State Fair taking place from June 27 to July 6 at Mercer County Park Fairgrounds, 1638 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor Township.
The jam-packed State Fair promises something for everyone including nightly musical entertainment, featuring three national acts: Liverpool Legends—the top-rated Beatles experience show—Dave Bray USA, and Vegas McGraw, as well as a great lineup of local and regional bands. Live animal shows include the Dock Dogs stunt dog competition and fan favorites Robinson’s Racing Pigs and Cow Town USA. Plus: Fireworks on three nights–6/27, 6/30, and of course, 7/4! Access to the bands, shows, and fireworks is free with gate admission.
The State Fair’s midway provider, Reithoffer Shows, will ensure there’s plenty of delicious food, carnival games and prizes, and rides for children and adults alike. In fact, they are bringing the largest traveling coaster in New Jersey—the Crazy Mouse—as well as the largest traveling Himalaya, the largest traveling swing ride, and the largest traveling carousel. Complimenting these is a variety of other rides and attractions sure to suit thrill seekers of all ages.
Presented by L.E.A.D. (Law Enforcement Against Drugs and Violence), L.E.A.D. FEST events benefit the organization’s programs and related initiatives. L.E.A.D. provides the leadership, resources, and management to ensure law enforcement agencies have the means to partner with educators, community leaders, and families. The Allentown-based national nonprofit’s programs help to provide youth and adults strategies for avoiding drug use, drug-related crimes, bullying, and violence. L.E.A.D. is committed to reinforcing the mutual respect, goodwill, and relations between law enforcement agencies and their communities.
“Funds raised at our carnivals and the State Fair are important to L.E.A.D.’s mission, allowing us to make our programs more accessible to a greater number of youngsters in the communities we serve. We are excited to bring more amazing events to New Jersey this year. Our goal is to create family-friendly, community-based events that are fun for everyone while at the same time promoting anti-drug and anti-violence activities in the state,” said Nick DeMauro, L.E.A.D. executive director. “The L.E.A.D. Fest State Fair is our biggest event of the season and this year we are delivering more value for your money.”
Gate admission is $5 on weekdays when the carnival opens at 5pm and $10 on weekends and holidays when the carnival opens at 3pm; kids under 12 always pay only $5 admission. Discounted MegaPasses—unlimited rides plus gate admission—are on sale now at theleadfest.com. Gate admission and ride tickets will also be available for purchase on-site at the carnival. Parking at Mercer County Park is free for this event!
For more information, including hours and attendance policies, visit theleadfest.com. Hours subject to change due to weather or safety situations. For more information about L.E.A.D., visit leadrugs.org or email info@leadrugs.org.
