A Quarter Of Century Of Fun: Hillsborough Rotary Fair Returns In 2023

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — For a quarter of a century, families have been coming to Hillsborough Township every summer to partake in rides, food, fireworks and more.

The Hillsborough Rotary Fair, formerly called the Hillsborough Fireman's Fair, began running in 1997 (See Photos here) and was hosted by Hillsborough Volunteer Fire Company No. 2 on its property off Route 206.

However, as part of the Route 206 Bypass project, the fire company sold its land and decided to stop hosting the event.

"They couldn't run the fair and it dropped off for a year. That's when a member approached the Hillsborough Rotary Club and we picked it up," said Rotary Club Treasurer Anthony Franchini.

Now, 13 years later under the Rotary Club, the five-day fair will return in August of 2023 at the township field next to the Hillsborough Promenade or Lowes shopping center at 315 Route 206 in Hillsborough.

The new location is key for accessibility to parking, said Franchini since the event is growing.

"It's been taking off every year and getting bigger and bigger," said Franchini.

The fair doesn't charge admission but based on ride ticket sales, Franchini estimates the fair attracts at least 20,000 to 25,000 people each year.

Along with the growing number of guests, who Franchini says come all the way from South Carolina or New York, the fair has expanded to double the number of rides and games offered.

The classic carnival with a colorful midway features more than 20 amusement rides, 12 to 15 games of chance, food vendors and an exposition of local businesses.

There is also a Giant 50/50 Raffle which in years past has resulted in a multi-thousand-dollar payout to a single winner.

A huge firework display is also hosted one night during the five-night fair.

The Club also offers a special needs community day, which is free, on a Saturday afternoon where it is more private and the sounds on the rides are lowered.

"We've been doing that for 10 years. It is the most rewarding part for us to see the families' faces," said Franchini.

All funds raised by the Hillsborough Rotary Club are returned to the community as contributions and service projects.

Franchini said the Rotary Club will begin preparations and planning in February for the upcoming annual event.

He encouraged everyone to come out again this summer.

"Everyone knows about it," said Franchini. "It's the thing to do in August."

For more information on the upcoming Hillsborough Rotary Fair or how to participate as a vendor, contact Anthony Franchini at 908-334-9304 or Anthony.Franchini@td.com.

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