You've probably driven past it a thousand times. That bright, slightly chaotic storefront in the Mid State Mall off Route 18. Honestly, if you live in Middlesex County, Party Fair East Brunswick NJ is basically a local landmark at this point. It’s the kind of place you ignore for eleven months of the year and then suddenly become obsessed with when your kid decides they need a very specific, obscure superhero-themed birthday party on three days' notice.
But here is the thing.
Most people treat it like a generic big-box store. They walk in, grab some paper plates, and leave. They’re missing the point. There is a weird, specific art to navigating this place that can save you a ton of money and a massive headache if you know what you’re looking for.
Why Party Fair East Brunswick NJ Isn't Just Another Party City
Look, we’ve all been to the giant corporate chains. They’re fine. But the East Brunswick Party Fair feels different. It’s got that "local business" grit. Sometimes it’s a little crowded, and yeah, during the Halloween rush, it can feel like a fever dream of polyester masks and fog machines. But that’s the charm.
The selection here is surprisingly deep. I’m talking about things you actually can’t find at the supermarket or even some of the larger franchises.
The Balloon Game is Next Level
If you’re coming here, you’re probably here for the balloons. It is their bread and butter. While the big chains have moved toward automated systems, the crew at the East Brunswick location still handles custom arrangements like they’re building a structural masterpiece.
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- Customization: They don't just do "helium in a bag." They do the giant number towers and the organic arches that actually stay inflated.
- The "Longevity" Secret: Ask them about Hi-Float. It’s a liquid sealant they can put inside latex balloons. It makes them last days instead of hours. Most people skip this to save a few cents, but if you’re prepping a party on a Friday for a Saturday event, it’s a literal lifesaver.
- Pricing: Kinda surprisingly, their Mylar prices often beat the local grocery stores, especially if you buy in bulk bundles.
Fireworks: The New Jersey Loophole
New Jersey laws on fireworks are... interesting. You can’t buy the stuff that shoots 50 feet into the air and explodes like a professional show, but Party Fair stocks a massive selection of "ground-based" sparkling devices. We’re talking fountains, sparklers, and those little tanks that blow smoke.
People think they have to drive to Pennsylvania for this. You don’t. For a backyard BBQ in East Brunswick, the stuff they have in the back corner of the store is more than enough to keep the neighbors entertained (or annoyed).
What Most People Get Wrong About Shopping Here
The biggest mistake? Waiting until Saturday morning.
If you show up at Party Fair East Brunswick NJ at 10:00 AM on a Saturday, you’ve already lost. That is peak "Balloon Crisis" hour. You'll find yourself standing behind three different frantic parents all trying to get 50 balloons into a Honda Civic.
Go Mid-Week or Go Home
I'm serious. Tuesday or Wednesday evening is the sweet spot. The staff actually has time to talk to you. They can help you coordinate color schemes or find that one specific shade of "Rose Gold" that matches your invitations. If you go during the weekend rush, you're just a number.
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The "Hidden" Discounts
They still use paper coupons. It feels old school, right? But check the local mailers like Money Mailer or Valpak. You can almost always find a "20% off one item" or a "Free Balloon with $30 purchase" deal. In 2026, where everything is an app or a QR code, having a physical coupon actually feels kinda nostalgic.
Also, check the clearance aisle in the very back. They often rotate seasonal stock early. You can find New Year's Eve decorations in February for pennies on the dollar.
The Logistics: Location and Survival Tips
The store is located at 300 Route 18, East Brunswick, NJ 08816. It’s tucked into the Mid State Mall, which is convenient because you can hit the Best Buy or the ShopRite in the same trip.
Store Hours (Usually):
- Monday – Thursday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Note: These change during October. If it’s Halloween season, expect them to be open later and be significantly more crowded.
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Parking is a Pain
The Mid State Mall parking lot is notorious. People drive through there like they're in the Indy 500. If you have a large balloon order, try to park as close to the front door as possible, or better yet, bring a second person. Trying to navigate 20 helium balloons through a windy parking lot while dodging a rogue SUV is a sport I don't recommend.
Real Talk: The Service
Let’s be honest. Some reviews online mention the staff being stressed.
And they are!
Think about it—they spend their days dealing with people who are stressed about weddings, first birthdays, and graduations. It’s a high-pressure environment for a retail job. If you go in with a "help me out" attitude rather than a "demand" attitude, the staff at the East Brunswick location are actually some of the most knowledgeable in the state. They know which streamers won't bleed color if they get wet and which plastic forks will actually hold up to a heavy pasta salad.
Beyond the Basics: Catering Supplies
One thing that gets overlooked is their catering section. If you’re hosting a big "Jersey style" backyard bash, don't buy your aluminum trays at the supermarket. Party Fair sells them in bulk packs that are way cheaper.
They also have the heavy-duty plastic "PremiumWare" that looks like real china. If you’re doing a bridal shower or a fancy communion party at home, this stuff is a game-changer. It’s sturdy enough that it won't fold under the weight of a meatball, which is the ultimate test of any party plate.
Actionable Steps for Your Next Visit
If you're planning an event soon, don't just wing it. Follow this plan to get the most out of the store:
- Call ahead for balloons: Do not wait until you are in the store. Call at least 48 hours in advance. They will have them bagged and ready for you to grab and go.
- Measure your car: This sounds stupid until you realize twelve 18-inch balloons don't fit in a sedan's trunk.
- Check the "Web Price": Sometimes their online site (partyfair.shop) has different prices. They usually match it if you show them on your phone, but you have to ask.
- Buy the "Kit" for arches: If you’re doing a DIY balloon arch, buy the plastic strip they sell. Don't try to use string. It’s five bucks and will save you three hours of frustration.
- Hit the greeting cards: They often have a "99 cent" or "50% off" section for cards. It's way better than paying eight dollars at a pharmacy.
Ultimately, Party Fair East Brunswick NJ is what you make of it. It’s a tool for your party planning. Use it right, and you look like a pro. Use it wrong, and you’re the person crying in the parking lot because a giant "3" balloon just floated away toward the New Jersey Turnpike.
Plan your visit on a Tuesday evening. Bring your coupons. Talk to the balloon experts. You'll save money, and your party will actually look like you hired a professional.