Step right up and take a look at the Garden State's amusements through the years.
One doesn't have to travel far in New Jersey to find an amusement park, carnival or fair.
From Sussex County to the Jersey Shore, the state is dotted with permanent attractions. Communities large and small hold annual seasonal fairs and festivals and the tradition of the county fair is still going strong in the Garden State.
That's a New Jersey lion over there on the left ... "What're YOU lookin' at?" I, for one, have many fond childhood memories of trips to amusement parks and church fairs. The rides. The food. The games. The sights. The sounds.
When I was a boy enrolled at St. Francis of Assisi School in Vineland, I --like every other kid -- couldn't wait for the annual class trip. My first class trip was to Storybook Land in Egg Harbor Township (see gallery). In fact, my second class trip was to Storybook Land, too. The reason for the repeat visit? It was really popular with the children.
And, speaking of St. Francis, the church barbecues were legendary. During the bulk of my childhood, the church had three (yes, three) such events every summer. The annual affairs featured amusement rides and the world's best barbecue sandwiches. And, it was a mere 15-minute walk from my house.
MORE: Vintage photos around New Jersey
So, I was spoiled. But, if you live in New Jersey, it's safe to say you were, too. County fairs, church fairs, fairs sponsored by social organizations, it's a fair bet you have fond memories of them from your own childhood, too.
Traveling circuses aren't as common as they once were, but New Jersey always had its share of them - the Hunt Brothers circus even maintained its winter headquarters in Florence.
Here's a gallery of vintage photos from around the state of amusement parks, fairs, circuses and festivals. Be sure captions are enabled to read all about these great pictures.
Can't get enough? Here's a link to last year's gallery.
Greg Hatala may be reached at ghatala@starledger.com. Follow him on Twitter @GregHatala. Find The Star-Ledger on Facebook.