The weekend is here, and we found more than 150 festivals, theater performances, musical performances and Halloween events happening all over New Jersey!
WEEKEND
Morristown Festival of Books
South Street, Morristown
Friday – Saturday
Saturday’s main Book Festival is an all-day, free, family-friendly fair with more than 100 award-winning and best-selling authors who will speak, answer questions and sign books. KidFest is an activity-filled part of the event where kids meet their favorite authors, get their books signed, and try crafts, face painting, and more. Note: Friday night features an event with CNN’s Fareed Zakaria at Mayo Performing Arts Center; this is a separate, paid, ticketed event.
Livingston Avenue School Haunted House
Livingston Avenue School, Cranford
Friday – Saturday
The “spookiest place” in Cranford has a Disney Villians theme this year.
Kids Night Out Halloween Party
ACACNJ
Friday: Denville
Saturday: Boonton
Little monsters can take part in pumpkin painting, slime making, costumes, karaoke and plenty of Halloween-themed fun.
Wildwoods ‘50s, ‘60s, and ‘70s Weekend
Wildwoods Convention Center, Wildwood
Friday – Saturday
There’s a nostalgic dance party on Friday, followed by a music concert on Saturday featuring Frankie Avalon, The Shirelles starring Beverly Lee, and The Lettermen. On Saturday, there’s a Free Festival & Classic Car Show at Fox Park during the day.
The Headless Horseman Rides Again
Mile Square Theater, Hoboken
Friday – Sunday
The tale of Ichabod Crane, the Headless Horseman, and the town of Sleepy Hollow comes to life on stage during an 80-minute show told by one man, Shawn K. Jain, performing courtesy of the Actors’ Equity Association.
Wonderment
State Theatre New Jersey, New Brunswick
Friday – Sunday
American Repertory Ballet presents a program of four ballet dance works.
Night of Frights
Allaire Village, Farmingdale
Friday – Sunday
Night of Frights take place on Friday and Saturday, plus ghost tours on Sunday.
Made in Philadelphia Fall Market
Dilworth Park, Philadelphia, PA
Friday – Sunday
The Made in Philadelphia Christmas market is around the corner, but for now spend the weekend living up the fall market, with everything from handcrafted art, photography, skincare, food and more being sold by Philly-area and Tri-State Area vendors.
Lighthouse Challenge of New Jersey
Lighthouses throughout NJ
Saturday – Sunday
See how many lighthouses you can visit this weekend as part of a statewide challenge.
M&M’S Ghoulish Gathering
Saturday: JFK Recreation Center, Newark
Sunday: Boylan Recreation Center, Newark
Kids will be given Halloween treat bags filled with an assortment of Mars Wrigley candy and additional Mars products, goodies and costumes. Activities include the “Monster Bash” karaoke station, a pumpkin patch, an interactive art station and a “trick-or-treating” door. To accommodate attendees with sensory sensitivities, there will be a designated “sensory/quiet zone” for anyone with neurodivergence.
Casino Pier Arcade, Seaside Heights
Saturday – Sunday
Meet Halloween dress-up characters, and have your face painted.
FRIDAY
Moorestown Pride Festival
Wesley Bishop Park, Moorestown
Mark your calendar for the fall because the first-ever Moorestown Pride Fest will include vendors, food trucks, a dog costume contest, drag queens and more.
Halloween Parade and Dance Party
Sea Isle City
The parade will feature live music, entertainers, floats and costumed participants. A Family Dance Party will take place at the Excursion Park Band Shell right after the parade.
Halloween Spooktacular
Marlboro Recreation Center parking lot, Marlboro
Families can come by for carnival games, cupcake decorating, a costume contest and parade, trunk-or-treating, a meet-and-greet with police officers and DJ music.
Haddy’s Birthday
Kings Highway, Haddonfield
This prehistoric party celebrates Haddonfield’s famous dinosaur. The Hadrosaurus foulkii sculpture turns 21, and the historic site marker on Maple Avenue turns 40.
Halloween Spooktacular
Marlboro Recreation Center parking lot, Marlboro
Families can come by for carnival games, cupcake decorating, a costume contest and parade, trunk-or-treating, a meet-and-greet with police officers and DJ music.
Seton Village, South Orange
There will be food trucks, a beer garden sponsored by Gaslight Brewery, and community fun.
Sky Talk and Observing Event
New Jersey State Museum, Trenton
Start the night with a sky talk at the planetarium, good for science lovers 10 and up. Then, everyone will form a convoy to drive up to the observatory at Washington Crossing State Park in Titusville (about a 20-minute drive) for star observations with members of the Amateur Astronomy Association of Princeton. If the weather isn’t clear, you’ll stay at the planetarium for a free showing of “5000 Eyes: Mapping the Universe with DESI” following the talk.
New Jersey International Film Festival
Voorhees Hall of Rutgers University, New Brunswick; and virtually
A series of films will be screened during the fall iteration of the film festival. On October 18, electronic music artist Jim Haynes will perform an audio-visual concert.
SATURDAY
mr. RAY’s 30th Anniversary
Bickford Theatre at Morris Museum, Morristown
mr. RAY is known for his children’s songs about kindness, being creative, staying healthy and being active. Along with his band, four teen singers will join this pop music icon on stage as he plays his greatest hits.
“Trolls” Character Breakfast
Marcus Live! Bar & Grille, American Dream, East Rutherford
Poppy and Branch from the movie “Trolls” will stop in to say hello. The characters will visit each table for a photo op during thebreakfast buffet.
Howl-O-Ween Family Fest
Marty’s Place Senior Dog Sanctuary, Allentown (Upper Freehold)
The highlights are a K9 costume, pie eating contest, talent contest, K9-friendly hayride, K9 agility demos, K9 tryouts, K9 Good Citizen Testing, Tails of Wellness pet communication and doggie games. There will be also be music, food trucks, vendors, a craft beer and wine garden, raffles and carnival games.
Bloomfield HarvestFest
Bloomfield Center Alliance, Bloomfield
Family funat thisfall celebrationincludes live music, artisan vendors, games, a Kids Zone, food trucks, a beer garden and more.
Howl-O-Ween
The Seafarer, Highlands
There will be a free costume contest for dogs and their humans, with prizes for scariest, most original, and human and dog pair/group costumes. There will be discounted drinks for dog owners, plus trivia contests.
Parents’ Day Out Special Needs Fall Festival
Liquid Church, Princeton
While parents enjoy 5 hours of free childcare, kids with special needs and their siblings can attend the fall fest for games and activities for all ages and abilities. There will be a pumpkin patch. Every child will be paired with a Buddy.
New Jersey Pink Pathway Breast Cancer Walk
American Dream, East Rutherford
The event put on by the Susan G. Komen Foundation will include a short program filled with stories of hope, inspiration, and remembrance before a 1 mile walk through the mall.
The Witchery
Ayres Knuth Farm, Denville
The night of “magick” will open with a Faerie Ring Ceremony for VIP ticket holders. The rest of the night includes shopping at an artisan market with over 50 vendors selling holistic, natural, and handmade goods; live performances; lectures; and the opportunity for interactive sessions with experienced practitioners such as tarot and oracle readers.
Modick Park, Hopatcong
There will be 50+ vendors, costume contests, prizes, kids activities and more for this Halloween party.
Middlesex County’s Plays-in-the-Park: James and the Giant Peach
Stephen J. Capestro Theater, Roosevelt Park, Edison
The children’s musical based on Roald Dahl’s classic book is about Young James, who discovers a magic potion that grows a gigantic peach, leading to an adventure with a quirky crew of insect companions. This magical and fantastical tale promises to entertain audiences of all ages. The 1 pm performance on October 13 will include American Sign Language interpretation.
Dodge Poetry Festival’s Family Fun Day
Military Park, Newark
Bring the kids for family-friendly poetry performances, poetry writing, DJ music, drag storytelling, face painting and food trucks.
New Jersey State Museum, Trenton
Drop in to the STEAM Center to try the new augmented reality sandbox and explore rocks and minerals at the gallery cart stationed in the “Written in the Rocks” exhibition.
Haunted Hopewell
Woolsey Park, Titusville
Costumes are encouraged for this Halloween-themed show, which includes trick-or-treating, a photo spot and games.
Pet-a-Palooza
All American Subaru, Old Bridge
Pet – and possibly adopt – the dogs and cats on site from Sammy’s Hope Animal Welfare & Adoption Center. Reps from NJ 101.5 will be at the party, playing music and offering giveaways; plus there will be local vendors set up.
Philadanco! How We Sustain
Rowan University, Glassboro
The Philadelphia Dance Company is women-led and preserves African American traditions in dance. How We Sustain is part of the Marie Rader Series at Rowan, and tells a story of natural cycles, continuity, shared purpose, and spiritual power, featuring works by guest choreographers and Black dancers.
Autism Resources Fair
Ocean County Library Branch, Little Egg Harbor
There will be local autism-related organizations on site, in additiona to children’s activities, Read to a Therapy Dog, and light snacks.
Enchanted Halloween Trail
Plainsboro Preserve, Cranbury
Wander down the Enchanted Trail to learn about Halloween creatures at the Preserve. The trail will include five not-so-scary stations where you will learn some fun and some scary facts about the creatures. This event is great for all ages but is geared toward ages 4-10.
Red Villians Spooky Brunch
Casino Pier Arcade, Seaside Heights
Kids and their parents can sit down for a special Halloween brunch with your favorite “Red” Villians. There will be a sing-along, meet-and-greet, and a “Red” braided hair and makeup session by Glitzy Chicks.
Diwali Celebration
MarketFair, Princeton
The Festival of Lights includes music and dance performances, games, crafts and light snacks.
Fall Canoeing/Kayaking Field Trip
Griggstown Canoe & Kayak Rental, Princeton
Hop in a boat and take a guided tour along the water to see the fall foliage.
Captain Nemo Adventure Academy
Grunin Center For the Arts, Toms River
Captain Nemo excites kids about the planet with tales of the Giant Squid, the elusive Angler fish, and how whale poop is part of the Cycle of Life. This theatrical experience features sound effects, slapstick hijinks, magic, bubble play, and audience participation.
Produce Pete Book Signing
Stew Leonard’s, Clifton
As part of its first-ever Food & Wine Festival, Stew Leonard’s will welcome fruit and vegetable expert, author, and TV personality Pete Napolitano to the Clifton store. Alongside co-author Susan Bloom, Napolitano will sign copies of his new memoir, “They Call Me Produce Pete.”
Foraging & Fences
Howell Living History Farm, Hopewell Twp.
Children can make an Osage orange centerpiece as part of the activities on this 1800s living history farm.
Costume Pet Parade
Historic Smithville, Galloway
Paw Dazzle Pet Boutique & Bakery will host the annual parade, where you can watch 100+ pets show off their unique Halloween costumes.
Pier Village, Long Branch
Dress your dog in their most creative Halloween costume for the parade and contest along the boardwalk. Other activities for the whole family include music by DJ JoJo and a traditional German Bavarian band, pumpkin carving demos, face painting, vendor shopping, trick-or-treating for dogs and kids, Yappy Hour for dogs, a meet-and-greet with mascot Sparky, photo ops in the pumpkin patch, inflatable rides, arcade games, bowling, mini golf, fall treats, psychic readings and animal adoptions.
Trunk-or-Treat
Lake Papaianni, Edison
In honor of National First Responders Day, meet your local heroes while getting free candy, seeing the township trucks, listening to music and meeting other members of the community.
Trunk-or-Treat
Apple Montessori, Mahwah
Apple Montessori teamed up with the Moms Helping Moms Foundation to offer this event. Kids will trunk-or-treat around the parking lot. Parents are encouraged to donatebaby/child items (diapers, formula, wipes, food, etc.) to help local moms in need.
Family Saturday: Halloween Edition
Alice Paul Institute, Mount Laurel
Take a self-guided tour of Paulsdale, make spooky crafts, and then listen to a family-friendly talk on the historical overview of witches and witchcraft.
Veterans Park, Bayville
Craft breweries, food trucks and crafters will be selling their goods while Naughty Humphrey performs.
Birdwatching for Kids
Plainsboro Preserve, Cranbury
A Girl Scout who is working on her Gold Award project will lead kids on a hike of the trails of the preserve where they will learn to identify different birds by sight and sound.
Haunted History Walking Tour
Starts at Peace of Chocolate, Cranbury
Walk the streets of one of the oldest towns in New Jersey. The town’s haunted past will come “alive” with its founders, the legends of the afterworld and the architects of Cranbury’s years gone by. The tour is family-friendly.
Sussex County Fairgrounds, Augusta
The stars of the show will be local honey, garlic, cheese, maple syrup, wine and spirits. Stop by the Sussex County Beekeepers Association and Garden State Garlic Growers to learn about beekeeping and garlic. Find unique specialty products from local artisans, crafters and vendors. Skylands Dulcimer String Band will perform. Free kids’ activities include pumpkin painting, hay wagon rides and crafts.
Halloween in the Historic District
Independence Visitor Center, Philadelphia, PA
The family-friendly trick-or-treat throughout the neighborhood’s museums and cultural organizations includes mask making, Pin the Mustache on Poe, a photo station, and 18th-century games.
Ultra Heroes vs. The Kaiju Live
Bandai Namco Store, American Dream, East Rutherford
Ultraman and Anime fans can see Ultraman and the Ultra Heroes battle giant monsters called Kaiju through two action-packed mini battles and two meet-and-greets where fans can take photos with their heroes.
Reed’s Farm Fall Bazaar
Reed’s Farm, Egg Harbor Twp.
In collaboration with Garden State Flea Markets, thefestivalwill include 30+ local vendors, farm animals, wood-fired pizza, face painting, coffee, a costume contest, a pie-eating contest, a family game area and lots of fall vibes.
Merchantville
As part of Monsterville, come to the street fair in the downtown, and visit the haunted house at Merchantville School at night.
Farm to Table Dinner
Treelicious Orchards, Port Murray
Live entertainment and dinner take place in the orchard during sunset. BYOB. Hosted with Redwoods Premium Catering from Chester.
SUNDAY
Heroes Con
VFW Post 8867, Brick
Kids will interact with costumed characters from “Star Wars” at this collectibles festival that celebrates comic books, trading cards and toys. There will be vendors, artists, writers and costume groups. Meet Bob Petrecca from Marvel comics.
Tenafly Fall Festival
Huyler Park, Tenafly
Fall-themed activities include a DJ dance party, community concert, Hive & Honey mobile bar, seasonal artisan market, costume contest, food trucks, fall crafts, lawn games, inflatables and seasonal photo ops.
Kids’ Hike For Fun
Wescott Preserve, Stockton
Kids will explore and wander through the woods, embracing the wonders of the season.
Fall Stroll Through Bulk Farm
Plainsboro Preserve, Cranbury
Join Preserve Manager Tara Miller for a leisurely walk through the farm and trails to discover its autumn colors.
Tenafly Fall Festival
Huyler Park, Tenafly
Fall-themed activities include a DJ dance party, community concert, Hive & Honey mobile bar, seasonal artisan market, costume contest, food trucks, fall crafts, lawn games, inflatables and seasonal photo ops.
Marlton Craft & Vendor Show
Blue Barn, Marlton
Shop for crafts – including No. 95 Candles, created by Melyssa Murray, and meet James “Murr” Murray of “Impractical Jokers” TV fame.
Gru’s Workshop
Casino Pier Arcade, Seaside Heights
Enter Gru’s Workshop and help his friends create some Halloween fun. Make slime, paint pumpkins and make your own bugs. Gru’s Yellow Friends will be available for photo ops.
Machuga Student Center, William Paterson University, Wayne
Bring the whole family to The Alliance of Private Special Education Schools of North Jersey’s Family Day. Enjoy games, activities, door prizes, balloon animals, face painting, special guests, and explore over 50 resource tables.
Corvette Show
Historic Smithville, Galloway
There will be anywhere from 75 to 150 GM models and Corvettes lined up along the Village Green.
Wildlife World of Animals
Casino Pier Arcade, Seaside Heights
Rizzo’s Wildlife World will bring 8-10 animals (snakes, lizards, frogs, turtles, insects, and small mammals) as well as a baby alligator. Kids will learn where each animal is from, what they like to eat, etc. They will also be able to touch a majority of the animals.
Making Strides of Point Pleasant Beach
Ocean and Arnold avenues, Pt. Pleasant
Join a non-competitive 3.1-mile walk that has no registration fee or fundraising minimum required. Wear your brightest shades of pink, put on comfortable walking shoes and rain protection, and walk the route from Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, down Ocean Avenue and around the Lake of the Lillies. After the walk, there will be activities, live entertainment, giveaways, snacks and survivor/caregiver recognition.
Wayne Valley High School Fall Craft Show
Wayne Valley High School, Wayne
The indoor event has over 100 booths highlighting tons of crafts and products, many that are homemade and handmade. A breakfast and lunch menu will be available in the cafe, and a bake table will be set up in the entranceway. Homemade pickles and kettle corn will be set up outside.
All Abilities Art Fest
Robert Schonhorn Arts Center at Matheny, Peapack
Take part in a plein air painting session outside the Arts Center, overlooking the beautiful Somerset Hills in the morning. A writing workshop and literary open mic will take place in the afternoon. Works of art that are created will be for sale.
Great Fall Festival
Flat Rock Brook, Englewood
There will belive music, canoe rides, raptor programs, guided hikes, face painting, nature-inspired arts and crafts and specialty food trucks.
Purple for Pappas 5K
Community Park, North Brunswick
This will be the 10th and final 5K event in honor of Aubrey Pappas, a teacher from Linwood Middle School who lost her life in a car crash.
Omnium Circus: I’m Possible
Shea Center for the Performing Arts, William Paterson University, Wayne
“Omnium” means of all and belonging to all. There is a representation of disabled and BIPOC artists who perform during the circus, plus ASL in every show, extra space in the seats, vocalization and audio descriptions.
Oktoberfest
Veterans Park South, Hamilton Twp.
The event will feature music from Big Hix & Double Vision (Foreigner Experience), food trucks, crafters, and beer gardens. Kids’ activities include art projects, a corn maze, henna tattoos, a petting zoo, pony rides, pick-your-own pumpkins, inflatable bounce houses and slides, and character meet-and-greets (Belle, Captain America, Cinderella, Incredible Hulk, Moana and Spider-Man).
Halloween Parade
Cape May
The parade route begins at Perry Street and Carpenters Lane, proceeds down Carpenters Lane to Ocean Street, travels down Washington Street and ends at the Emlen Physick Estate.
Red Bank Halloween Parade
East Bergen Place and Hudson Avenue, Red Bank
Enter your float to win a trophy from the Red Bank Fire Department. There will be prizes and goodie bags for kids. Plus, stay for a performance by School of Rock youth musicians.
ONGOING
Friday Night Live
Marcus Live! Bar & Grille, American Dream
Every Friday
Harlem band The Nate Lucas All-Stars will perform every Friday night at Chef Marcus Samuelsson’s new restaurant.
Feed at Reed’s
Reed’s Farm, Egg Harbor Twp.
Every Saturday
Every Saturday at 1 pm, you can help feed the animals on the farm, plus learn about the behavior and care of chickens, pigs, sheep and more, plus their roles on a regenerative farm.
Crane House & Historic YWCA, Montclair
Every Sunday
Take a self-guided tour to learn about the women of the Historic YWCA and the Crane family at your own pace. Take some time to walk through the gardens and meadow on site.
Vegan in NJ Monthly Market
American Legion Post 346, Neptune
First Sunday of every month
More than 20 vegan vendors will be set up indoors and outdoors, selling food, sweets and retail items.
Dinosaurs: After Dark
Field Station: Dinosaurs, Leonia
Fridays and Saturdays in October
In Halloween spirit, the trails are dark and a hungry T-Rex is lurking in the shadows. A fearless Dinosaur Wrangler will lead a Tyrannosaurus Hunt along the Field Station’s darkened trails with a stop at every dinosaur with surprises along the way. At the end of every night, everyone gathers around the campfire for a dinosaur sing-along, roasted marshmallows and hot chocolate.
Screamline Haunted Car Wash
Streamline Car Wash, Rockaway
Fridays and Saturdays in October
For October, the car wash transforms into a haunted car wash on Friday and Saturday nights.
Middlesex County 4-H Fairgrounds, East Brunswick
Saturdays and Sundays in October
You are invited to experience a night of thrills and fun at this family-friendly event, which features a haunted house and a hayride.
Jersey Shore Ghost Tours
Downtown Red Bank
Fridays in October
Explore the borough’s haunted history with guide Genevieve Revenant.
AddamsFest
Westfield
Throughout October
Charles Addams, creator of The Addams Family, was a Westfield resident, so every year the town goes all out to celebrate Halloween with events like a heritage trail tour, Ouija fun, Family Fun Day, tours of the Addams house, a full moon gathering and a house decorating contest.
“Halloween Capital of the World”
Cranford
Throughout October
A Cameo video by actor David Arquette is getting a lot of attention, because he calls Cranford the Halloween Capital of the World. Events this month include Monster Mash, a candy stroll, Ghostbusters day, horror movies, Witches Night Out, movie trivia and a pet parade.
Main Street Pops Artisan Market
Under the 14th Street Viaduct, Hoboken
Select Sundays, through December
Local makers and creators from the area sell their unique handmade creations, ranging from fashion and jewelry to art and photography to home decor and vintage finds to artisanal foods and pet products to kids stuff. There is also live music and outdoor games. Special holiday markets are planned for December 8, 15 and 22.
Clean & Scream
Hopewell Valley Car Wash, Pennington
October 18-19, 24-27, 31
The Ghostbusters of NJ will try to take down some of the ghosts lurking around the car wash.
Haunted Theater
Brookdale Community College, Lincroft
October 18-20, 25-27
Known as one of the scariest and most immersive Halloween attractions in Monmouth County, this year’s title and theme, Haunted Theater 2024: Out of Time!, takes you on a horrifying journey through time travel. You’ll experience intricate mazes, pitch-black zones and haunting special effects as you go through the haunted houses. If you’re young or faint of heart, try the special Scaredy Cat tours that don’t have all the scares. There’s also a “Rocky Horror Picture Show” night on October 18, with a drag pre-show and prop sales.
Boo at the Boardwalk
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, Point Pleasant
October 19-20, 26-27
There will be kiddie rides, trick-or-treating, games, crafts and underwater pumpkin carving.
Seaside Spookfest
Casino Pier, Seaside Heights
October 19-20, 26-27
The highlights include a RED Spooky Brunch and Villians Sing-Along on October 19; Gru’s Workshop and Wildlife World of Animals show on October 20; Swiftie Costume Party for Taylor Swift fans on October 26; and an Insectropolis bug show and Witch Sisters meet-and-greet on October 27.
Storybook Land Trick-or-Treat Weekends
Storybook Land, Egg Harbor Twp.
October 19-20 and 26-27
Come in costume and collect treats throughout the park. Your kids can also take hay rides and play in the hay maze.
Fall Feels & Vineyard Vibes
Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery, Rio Grande
October 19-20 and 26-27
The weekends are filled with wine tastings, live music and food trucks.
Haunted Car Wash
Team Car Wash, Westfield
October 19, 25-26, 29-30
Teens from Play Theater, a performing arts program for kids in Union County, will dress up in creepy costumed characters and spook you while you wait in line. You’ll listen to Halloween-themed audio while your car gets washed.
Tuckerton Seaport, Tuckerton
October 19-20, 25-27, November 1-3
The special Halloween-themed and family-friendly boat rides along the Tuckerton Creek are fully narrated, so you’ll hear stories about the legends and lores of the Jersey Shore and the Pinelands. You may even see Mrs. Leed’s 13th child (aka The Jersey Devil).
Sensory-Friendly Tour
Macculloch Hall Historical Museum, Morristown
Saturdays, October 19 and November 16
Families and care partners with neurodiverse children and teens can experience the historic house with plenty to touch, and lots of time for questions. Plus, explore the new garden sensory pathway through sight, sound, touch and smell.
Freehold Ghost Tours
Downtown Freehold
October 20, 25 and 26
Rebecca Gruber, author of “Dark History & Hauntings of Freehold: Ghostly Stories From a Historic New Jersey Town,” will lead a series of walking tours around Freehold Boro to discuss its haunted history. There is no age requirement, though some stories may be unsettling.
Beyond Pink Art Show
MarketFair,Princeton
October 20-27
The YWCA’s Breast Cancer Resource Center presents an inspiring showcase of art illustrating the journeys of breast cancer survivors and caregivers. Opening Night on October 24 includes a pop-up art show fundraiser.
American Ballet Theatre’s Family-Friendly Matinees
David H. Koch Theatre, New York, NY
Sundays, October 20 and 27
These programs are geared towards families, offering kids a shorter afternoon at the ballet. ABT Principal Dancer Misty Copeland will host the October 27 matinee.
Circus Vazquez
Westfield Garden State Plaza, Paramus
Through October 28
If your kids love Cirque de Soleil, get ready for the next high-energy, all-human, international circus coming to NJ. After the show, you can meet some of the circus stars, which include clowns, acrobats, the Bone Breakers, daredevils, Olympians, gymnasts and jugglers.
Friday Night Bites
The Hungry Puppy Dog Park, Farmingdale
Fridays, through October 25
Bring your pup and your friends to the double-gated, specially-designed dog park, where you can relax and listen to some music while mingling with other pet parents. There will be free snacks and treats from a sponsoring pet food manufacturer each week.
Free Guided Garden Tours
New Jersey Botanical Garden, Ringwood
Sundays, through the end of October
NJBG docents take you on a tour of what’s blooming around the Botanical Garden.
Hill Creek Farms Fall Season
Hill Creek Farms, Mullica Hill
Fridays – Sundays, through October 27
As you pick pumpkins and apples, listen to lively music, take part in activities, and relax with wine from Auburn Road Wine Garden.
Autumn Leaf Pumpkin Train
Woodstown Central Railroad, Woodstown
Saturdays-Sundays, through October 27
Take in the breathtaking scenery of southern New Jersey. When you get to Fenwick Grove you’ll have 30 minutes for pumpkin picking, a free cider and donut, and fall-themed activities.
Freehold Borough Spooktacular
Downtown Freehold
Through October 27
Halloween events throughout the month include a scarecrow contest on October 18, a Monster Mash and Jack-o-Lantern Contest on October 19, and the Main Street costume parade on October 27.
Festival of Fountains
Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square, PA
Through October 27
There are new garden spaces, the return of the Fireworks & Fountains Shows, performances in front of the Illuminated Fountain, a beer garden, Festive Fridays with live music, plus all the gorgeous landscapes we can’t get enough of.
Maple Leaf Farms, Manalapan
Saturdays – Sundays, through October 27
There will be live bull riding and country music, plus more than 30 activities, including a wooden train, pumpkin village, hay ride, corn maze, animal barnyard, pig races, hay maze, backhoe play yard, corn tunnel, rubber duck races, pillow jump, and candy corn toss.
Halloween Weekends
Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp & Resort, Williamstown
Weekends, through October 27
Camp out in a tent, cabin or trailer for the weekend. Activities will include trick-or-treating, a pumpkin patch, and haunted hot cocoa, among sports, lakeside activities, a hayride, gem mining, candy bar bingo, and visits from Yogi Bear, Boo-Boo and Cindy Bear.
Lentini Farms Fall Festival
Lentini Farms, Newton
Fridays – Sundays, through October 27
There will be a different live band and food trucks each weekend, along with a 10-acre corn maze, scenic hayrides, the sunflower field, a beer tent, a pumpkin patch and haunted hayrides.
Bronx Zoo Pumpkin Nights
Bronx Zoo, The Bronx, NY
Thursdays – Sundays, through October 27
Follow an animal-themed illuminated pumpkin trail (we’re talking 5,000 gourds!) and learn about animal behavior after dark, plus enjoy live pumpkin carving, games, treats, costumed characters, fog and bubbles, and bioluminescent bays.
Scare Farm
Norz Hill Farm, Hillsborough
Fridays – Sundays, through October 27
This year’s three horror-filled attractions include Creepy Hollow, Paranoia Walking Trails, and The Slayride – Hayride.
Tricks and Treats
Dorney Park, Allentown, PA
Saturdays – Sundays, through October 27
Fun at the theme parkincludes a fall festival, Halloween activities, live entertainment, Patch’s Pumpkin Party, the Mask Maker’s Mash, a trick-or-treat trail and a costume contest.
DiDonato’s Trick-or-Treat Train
DiDonato’s Family Fun Center, Hammonton
Saturdays – Sundays, through October 27
Your admission includes a train ride through a little-goblin-friendly Halloween Town, entrance to the Halloween corn maze, a pumpkin from the pumpkin patch, the giant slide, an inflatable 40-foot obstacle course, five trick-or-treat spots, a meet-and-greet and photos with a local witch, entrance to The Toy Market with its Pop-Up Snack & Toy Cottage, and one free game of bowling plus shoe rental per person.
Pumpkin Train
Black River & Western Railroad, Flemington
Saturdays – Sundays, through October 27
Take a train ride to Everitt Farms, and when you stop at Pumpkin Junction there will be various autumn attractions, including pumpkin picking, a wagon ride, a corn box, and other activities.
Boo at the Zoo
Bronx Zoo, The Bronx, NY
Saturdays – Sundays, through October 27
New this year, chills and thrills include a Trick of Truth Maze, face painting, a Creepy Mystery Wall and the Halloween Mashup. Returning favorites include the costume parade, live pumpkin carvings, Halloween crafts, magic shows, mind rinding, pumpkin trails, and an extinct animal graveyard.
Farm of Horrors
Schaefer Farms, Flemington
Select dates, through October 27
Ride, walk then run for your life at New Jersey’s original Halloween-themed haunted attraction.
Halloween Light Show
Demarest Farms, Hillsdale
Select dates, through October 31
Pack everyone into your car for a guided tour through 32 acres of Halloween light displays. There will be farm fresh goodies in the retail farm market, fire pits, make-your-own s’mores, and hot cocoa.
Halloween Happenings
Throughout Cape May
Through October 31
In one of the most haunted cities in the country, Halloween activities include specially-themed tours and events daily, including Murder Mystery Dinner: Bumped Off & Bottoms Up!; Phantoms of the Physick Estate: The Living Library; Historic Haunts House Tour; Historic Haunts Combo Tour; Voices from Beyond House Tour; Cherry House Haunting Tales Tour; Strange Victorian Obsessions House Tour; Spirits & Oddities Trolley Tour; Spirits, Oddities & Obsessions Combo Tour; Graveyard Ghosts & Mansions Combo Tour; and a Ghost Walk with Craig McManus.
Fall Festival Weekends
Von Thun’s, South Brunswick and Washington Twp.
Saturdays – Sundays, through October 31
The weekend festivals feature hayrides, access to the apple orchard and pumpkin patch, and more than 20 games and attractions for kids and adults. The corn maze is open daily through Halloween.
Fall Fun Harvest Weekends
Donaldson Farms, Hackettstown
Saturdays – Sundays, through October 31
During the apple and pumpkin harvest season, the 500+ acre family-owned and -operated farm market and activity area includes a 9-acre corn maze. This year, $1 from every ticket sold will be donated to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.
Harvest Moon Nights
Alstede Farm, Chester
Fridays – Saturdays, through November 1
After conquering the corn maze, relax on a leisurely hayride through the starlit fields, warm up by the cozy bonfires, and listen to local music. Try locally crafted hard ciders, apple cider donut ice cream or pumpkin ice cream, or food from the food trucks in the FarmHouse District.
Glow! The Spooky Speedway
Glow!, Sicklerville
Through November 2
Drive along an illuminated version of Route 66 – look for the glowing pumpkins, friendly ghosts and whimsical witches that are brought to life by thousands of synchronized lights in a non-jump scare environment.
Hayrides & Pumpkin Picking
Abma’s Farm in Wyckoff and Hillsborough
Through November 2
Visit the farms to hop on a hayride through the scenic fields, pick the perfect pumpkin to take home, and meet the friendly barnyard animals. There’s a corn maze at the Hillsborough location.
Jack ‘O Lantern Experience
Skylands Stadium, Augusta
Select dates, through November 3
Festival-like activities include seasonal food and drinks, outdoor games, pumpkin picking and painting, a beer garden, live music, and a 45-minute stroll through over 6,000 hand-carved Jack-O-Lanterns.
Argos Farm, Forked River
Select dates, through November 3; plus Monday, October 14
Aside from the fall festival activities at Argos Farm, you can return at night for Jacks & Lights. The main hit is a quarter-mile walking trail of thousands of carved jack-o-lanterns. There is also a lighted pumpkin trail, pumpkin patch, flashlight maze, Spook-Easy, and tons of photo ops.
Fall Fun Weekends
Mountain Creek Resort, Vernon Twp.
Saturdays – Sundays, through November 3
Take in the breathtaking fall foliage on a sky ride in the mountains, race down the Mountain Coaster, enjoy live music, and bring the kids to bounce houses, a hay maze and lawn games.
Fintastic Pumpkin Glow
Adventure Aquarium, Camden
Through November 3
During this fall festival, look for carved pumpkins that glow on land or in the water. New this year is a nearly 10-foot underwater octopus shaped out of pumpkins, and a snorkeling scarecrow that’s overlooking an underwater pumpkin patch. There will be seasonal sensory tables set up, with pumpkin slime and other hands-on sensory experiences. You can pay to paint a pumpkin, or buypumpkin-themed souvenirs from the gift shop. You can also tune into the aquarium’s “What Goes Bump in the Midnight Zone” show, which focuses on animals that live in the depths of the ocean.
Fright Fest Extreme
Six Flags Great Adventure, Jackson
Select nights, through November 3
There will be haunted houses, scare zones, rides in the dark and special shows specially tailored for Halloween inside the theme park. Themes include Stranger Things, The Conjuring, SAW’s 20th anniversary, Army of the Dead and Texas Chain Saw.
Great Adventure’s Oktoberfest Food Festival
Six Flags Great Adventure, Jackson
Select dates, through November 3
Explore German-inspired cuisine, brews and desserts all around the theme park.
Happy Day Farm Fall Festival
Happy Day Farm, Manalapan
Select dates, through November 3
Activities include the sunflower field, Pumpkinville, corn maze, pig races, tractor rides, fun slide, feeding zoo and more – there are over 35 activities included with admission.
Peddler’s Village Scarecrow Season
Peddler’s Village, Lahaska, PA
Through November 3
The next few months, celebrate everything Fall with various dates for the scarecrow display and festival, pet photo contest, Food Truck Thursdays, a murder mystery dinner, an outdoor screening of “The Wizard of Oz,” a wedding show, a Peddler’s Village Book Club, a terrarium-making workshop, the annual OctoberFeast weekend, Halloween parties, and the Peddler’s Village Apple Festival.
Fall Fest at LSC
Liberty Science Center, Jersey City
Through November 3
Stop by daily for trick-or-treating, Halloween dance parties, the new Haunted Universe planetarium show, a Potions Lab and spooky science demos. On fall weekends, there is more added: a petting zoo, a 3D spooky movie double feature, the Terror Lab walk-through haunted house and Boo! A Halloween Laser Show.
The Red Barn Farm, Hammonton
Fridays – Sundays, through November 3
Take a hayride to the sunflower fields for photo memories and a sunflower each. Get lost in nearly 10 acres of the giant corn maze, this year dedicated to country music star Luke Bryan. When you escape, head to the fairgrounds and bounce around on the Jumbo Air Pillow, try your hand at lassoing the bull targets and other activities at the fairgrounds.
We All Scream For Ice Cream
Emlen Physick Estate, Cape May
Through November 3
Learn about the history of ice cream dating back to the Victorian era. It started as an elite and expensive dish but by the end of the 1800s came in simpler flavors and was used in cones, sundaes and banana splits. You’ll see an authentic ice cream maker and other equipment, plus a Victorian ice cream wagon.
The Great Pumpkin Festival
Heaven Hill Farm, Vernon
Select dates, through November 3
Included with admission are 35+ family fun outdoor activities, including hayrides to the pumpkin patch, “The Big Top” themed corn maze, farm animals, pig races, Canine Dog Show, pedal cars, touring cars, giant slingshot, giant straw pyramid, boo barn, Baseball Speed Throw, and more activities for the entire family. For an additional fee, there are carnival rides, apple cannon, paintball range, gem mining, wine tasting, food vendors, kettle corn, apple cider donuts, pumpkins and gourds, and mums.
Fall Festival
Argos Farm, Forked River
Select dates, through November 3
Walk through the Snoopy-shaped corn maze, take photos in the pumpkin field and listen to live music. There are tons of fun activities such as the Pumpkin Bounce Pad, Hayrides, Double Hay Slide, Gauntlet Obstacle Course, Bee Zip Line and Cow Train. There’s also a quarter-mile walking trail of thousands of carved pumpkins called Jacks & Lights.
Argos Farms, Forked River
Thursdays – Sundays, through November 3
The Jersey Shore’s glowing pumpkin experience has thousands of carved jack o’lanterns lighting up the night sky. There’s a lighted pumpkin trail, pumpkin patch, fall treats, a flashlight maze, Spook-easy and photo ops.
Kids Boo Fest
Six Flags Great Adventure, Jackson
Select dates, through November 3
The daytime Halloween event is family-friendly, with trick-or-treating, unique fall festivities, fun character photo opportunities and treats.
Fall Family Fun Weekends
Terhune Orchards, Princeton
Saturdays-Sundays, through November 3
Family fun on the farm includes pumpkin painting, apple picking, pony rides, a corn stalk and hay bale maze, the Adventure Story Barn, farm animals, the sunflower trail, a scavenger hunt and live music.
The Count’s Spooktacular
Sesame Place Philadelphia, Langhorne, PA
Select dates, through November 3
The theme park will be transformed for Halloween. Activities include Halloween-themed shows and parades, the Trick-or-Treat Trail, pumpkin decorating with Abby Cadabby, and a Halloween costume contest (October 27).
A Haunted and Hilarious Dinosaur Halloween
Field Station: Dinosaurs, Leonia
Weekends, through November 10
The dino theme park puts a haunted Halloween spin on paleontology with ghostly and funny versions of dinosaur-themed shows, games and activities, along with the return of Dinosaurs After Dark, the popular spooky nighttime adventure.
Bear Mountain Fall Cruise
Pier 83, New York, NY
Saturdays-Sundays, through November 10
The Floating Oktoberfest Cruise travels 50 miles through the fall foliage of the Hudson River Valley. On board you’ll eat pork schnitzel, bratwursts and Bavarian pretzels and drink Warsteiner and Spaten beer. When you get to Bear Mountain you’ll have at least two hours to explore trails, the lake, the zoo, the Merry-Go-Round and more before heading back to Manhattan.
Morning Walks
Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary, Bernardsville
Saturdays, through November 23
Enjoy a quiet morning walking the trails with an NJ Audubon staff or Associate Naturalist. You’ll learn about the birds, trees, tracks, wildflowers, reptiles and amphibians that are natural wonders of the area.
Nature-Infused Yoga
Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary, Bernardsville; or virtual
Saturdays, through November 23
Teens and adults can join a 75-minute yoga practice that will help you relax and stretch while immersed in nature.
Frank V. Marina Flea Market
Frank A. Vincent Marina, Kearny
Second Sunday of every month, through December
There will be more than 100 vendors selling everything at bargain prices.
Main Memorial Park Flea Market
Memorial Park, Clifton
Second Saturday of every month, through December
There will be more than 100 vendors selling everything at bargain prices.
Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed
Monmouth Museum, Brookdale Community College, Lincroft
Tuesdays – Sundays, through January 2, 2025
This interactive exhibit explores the bones and fossils of the giant creatures that once roamed the Earth. See full-size T-Rex and velociraptor models, footprints and eggs. Special events will be announced during the duration of the exhibit, including guided tours, a special museum fundraiser, a Christmas tree lighting and Noon Year’s Eve.
New Jersey Arts Annual: Exploring Our Connections
Montclair Art Museum, Montclair
Through January 5, 2025
The exhibition showcases contemporary art from across the Garden State, based on the themes of family, community, and belonging, expressed through different mediums of art.
Blue Whale: The World’s Biggest Animal
Liberty Science Center, Jersey City
Through January 5, 2025
The exhibition tells the story of the 60-ton whale that washed ashore in Trout River, Newfoundland, in 2014. You’ll see the enormous skeleton of a recovered blue whale and discover how whales evolved, the size of their heart, how they communicate, their decline, what’s being done to protect them, and how scientists are using DNA to unlock some of the secrets of these elusive creatures.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show
The Duke Theater at New 42 Studios, New York, NY
Through January 5, 2025
The show returns to NYC to celebrate its 10th anniversary. This production will feature two tales from Eric Carle: The Artist That Painted a Blue Horse and Mr. Seahorse. You will also see The Very Lonely Firefly and The Very Hungry Caterpillar during the 50-minute show. During the holiday season, Dream Snow will be added to the story rotation for the first time in New York City.
New Jersey/New Sculpture
Morris Museum, Morristown
Wednesdays – Sundays, through February 2, 2025
Eleven sculptors who worked with malleable aluminum, cold-worked glass, and industrial robotics join the more traditional media of ceramics, forged iron, and steel in this exhibit that showcases 40 works based on The Garden State.
Morven Revealed: Untold Stories From New Jersey’s Most Historic Home
Morven Museum & Garden, Princeton
Wednesdays – Sundays, through March 2, 2025
This special exhibit is part of Morven’s 20th-anniversary celebration and will shed light on lesser-known stories of this historic home and its residents. You’ll see rarely-seen objects and newly discovered photos about American life: childhood, hosting guests, pets, fashion, and more.
Slow Motion
Grounds For Sculpture, Hamilton
Through September 1, 2025
Five artists from Monument Lab in Philadelphia created gigantic, creative, introspective monuments that will be on display for their beauty, but also to address political, cultural and social issues.
Hometown Pride: The Power of Sports in Middlesex County
Cornelius Low House Museum, Piscataway
Select dates, through December 31, 2025
Middlesex County’s sports connections include the first-ever college football game played between Rutgers University and Princeton University and professional athletes and Olympians, Paralympians, and Special Olympians. The exhibit features items from Rutgers University, Middlesex College, several high schools, and individuals. You will see high school trophies from the 1930s to the present, NFL golden footballs for pro athletes, balls from the highest-scoring high school athletes, uniforms from the 1930s to the present,and more.
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