Is your little one a pretty princess or a ready-to-rescue superhero? State Fair Meadowlands at Giants Stadium Fairgrounds in East Rutherford will host its third annual Prettiest Princess and Superhero Contest on June 28, during this summer's fair, which will run from June 25 through July 12.

Event organizers are looking for girls and boys, ages 3 to 8, to show off their best princess or superhero outfits. Contest winners will receive a trophy and other prizes.

"State Fair Meadowlands is all about entertainment and family fun. The Prettiest Princess and Superhero contest lets our littlest patrons shine," says Al Dorso, president of State Fair Meadowlands.

Applicants can register online at www.njfair.com by completing the online form and uploading a picture of the young superhero or princess looking his or her best. Applications and pictures must be received by June 10 to be eligible. Finalists will be notified in advance. Entry is free for all finalists and discount tickets may be purchased for all relatives and friends. The winner will be announced at the fair on June 28 at 4 p.m.

This year, State Fair Meadowlands will feature free entertainment, as well as a variety of food, thrill rides, games, exhibits, shopping and bargain ticket nights. Free nightly entertainment includes the Marcan Tiger Show, master hypnotist Steve Bayner, Festival of Magic, and World of Wonder - Palace of Illusion. Strolling musicians and costumed characters will also provide entertainment throughout the fairgrounds.

Fireworks displays are planned for July 3 and July 4, and the fantastic opening "Dollar Night" on Thursday, June 25 - where everything from parking, to admission, rides and select food items will cost a dollar each. Thursday, July 2, is BOGO Night, where everything from admission, games and unlimited ride hand stamps are Buy One, Get One Half Price. Look for the BOGO sign at participating food vendors. Thursday, July 9, is Carload Night, where everyone who fits in your car (up to eight people) can enter for one price of $69, and parking is free.

On Monday, June 29 (rain date June 30), State Fair is offering free admission to the currently unemployed and up to four of their immediate family members. Patrons with proof of unemployment such as an unemployment check stub will enter for free and may enjoy all the free entertainment without spending another penny. If they choose, they may take advantage of discounted unlimited-ride hand stamps. For more bargains and promotion days, visit www.njfair.com.

Fair hours are as follows: Monday through Thursday, 6 p.m. to midnight; Fridays from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m., Saturdays from 2 p.m. to 2 a.m., and Sundays from 2 p.m. to midnight. Special hours on July 3 and 4 are from 2 p.m. to 2 a.m. and July 6 from 2 p.m. to midnight. On June 25, opening night, gates open 5 p.m., and close at 1 a.m.

Advance tickets for State Fair Meadowlands are on sale now through June 24 and can be bought online at www.njfair.com or by calling 973-450-1073. Special group packages are also available.