October in New Jersey is a vibrant time of year, filled with a wide array of events and festivals that celebrate the best of the season. From harvest festivals and food fairs to arts showcases and cultural celebrations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a fan of live music, local vendors, seasonal eats, or family-friendly entertainment, the Garden State offers a packed calendar of festivities that capture the spirit of autumn. As the leaves turn and the weather cools, New Jersey comes alive with events that are perfect for making memories.
For more events throughout the year, check out our Event Guide. If you’d like to submit your event, click here.
For more New Jersey Events and Adventures, follow along on Instagram, @newjerseyisntboring, and Insta Stories! Don’t forget to tag your own NJ fun with #NJisntBoring.
Fore more events be sure to check out our list of All the Fall Things: NJIB’s Guide to 40+ New Jersey Fall Festivals/Halloween Multi-Day Events AND our guide to New Jersey Halloween Events & Festivals.
NJIB’s Guide to New Jersey October Festivals and Events:
Important! Our lists for Halloween Festivals and Oktoberfests are listed on separate guides.
Featured!
Jersey City Beer, Wine, and Spirits Festival
October 4, 6 pm – 9:30 pm
Jersey City Beer Wine and Spirits Fest is your all-access pass to emerging and renowned whiskies and spirits from around the corner to across the globe. Guests will enjoy samples for the entire evening paired with live entertainment, food, and interactive games. With over 100 different samples to try, it’s a great place to discover new spirits and speak to representatives and master distillers. Beer, Wine, and Spirits Fest will also feature amazing local food vendors.
Harborside Atrium, 210 Hudson St, Jersey City, NJ
Cost: Save 40% with code NJIB
Cranford Street Fest
October 5, 11 am – 5 pm
Step into a world of vibrant crafts, tantalizing tastes, and endless entertainment! Join us as we transform the old Cranford Street Fair into a bustling playground of vendors and festivities at our NEW Cranford Street Fest! Get ready to stroll through a kaleidoscope of crafts, flavors, and rhythms, where every corner holds a new adventure. This is a street-fair style event featuring 100+ artisans and Cranford Businesses along North Union Ave and Alden St. Admission is free, family friendly, and open to the public.
N. Union Ave, Cranford, NJ
Cost: Free
The Jersey Devil Fable Festival
October 10 & 11
Folklore fans, cryptid chasers, and lovers of all things eerie — mark your calendars! The Jersey Devil Fable Festival is set to descend upon Asbury Park, New Jersey, on October 10 & 11, 2025. Hosted by the iconic Paranormal Books & Curiosities, this two-day celebration promises a weekend packed with myths, monsters, and macabre magic on the 600 block of Mattison Avenue. At its heart, the Jersey Devil Fable Festival is a celebration of folklore and the weird and wonderful creatures that haunt New Jersey’s forests, rivers, and shorelines. Guests can look forward to a weekend filled with costume contests, psychic readings, and the unforgettable March of the Cryptids — where creatures of local legend and lore will parade through the streets in a spectacle of spooky pageantry.
Mattison Ave, Asbury Park, NJ
Cost: Festival is Free. Film Festival is $17.38 per person
Asbury Park Whiskey and Spirits Fest
October 11, 1 pm – 4:30 pm
Asbury Park Whiskey Fest is a perfect opportunity for guests to meet and hang out with friends and enjoy the libation of their choice. Enjoy the Surf, Sun and Samples throughout the session. Whiskey Fest is your all access pass to emerging in distillers near and far from local Jersey Shore favorites to Scotch from the highlands and more. Guests will enjoy samples for the entire evening paired with live entertainment, food and interactive games. With over 100 different samples to try it’s a great place to discover new whiskey and speak to master distillers.
Bradley Park, 101-199 Fifth Avenue Asbury Park, NJ
Cost: Save 40% with code NJIB
The Week of September 29th – October 5th:
Submersion Festival
October 2-4
Submersion Festival is a boutique, independently-owned and operated music and arts festival based in Hammonton, New Jersey. Hosted by Aspire Higher and The Rust Music, the festival finds itself nestled within the sprawling Paradise Lakes campground amongst the Garden State’s lush Pine Barrens for a third consecutive year. Bringing together musical communities and vetted professionals from the combined Philadelphia and New York area, we strive to provide a tightly curated weekend of selective programming, expansive visual art, cutting-edge sound systems alongside a modest cast of friends and family.
Paradise Lakes Campground, 500 Paradise Dr, Hammonton, NJ
Cost: Varies
JC Harvest Festival and Cultural Diversity Festival
October 4, 10 am – 2 pm
This family event features many fun fall festivities including pumpkin decorating, arts & crafts, music, food vendors and more!
Hamilton Park, Jersey City, NJ
Cost: Free
Charlotte Joy Touch-a-Truck Fundraiser Festival
October 4, 10 am – 3 pm
The highly anticipated 2nd Annual Charlotte Joy Touch-a-Truck Festival is set to return to the East Freehold Showgrounds, promising an even more thrilling experience for attendees. This year’s event is slated to be bigger and better than ever before, featuring an impressive lineup of over 100 emergency vehicles, trucks, utility vehicles, a helicopter, a hot air balloon, classic cars, and an array of exciting attractions for the whole family.
East Freehold Showgrounds, 1500 Kozloski Rd, Freehold, NJ
Cost: $20 for Adults, $19 for Children, and 2 and under are free
The Hightstown Family Fair
October 4, 10 am – 4 pm
The family event features a fun day filled with artisans and crafters, small businesses, live entertainment, great food, and children’s activities.
Bank Street next to Ely House, Downtown Hightstown, NJ
Cost: Free
Collingswood Book Festival
October 4, 10 am – 4 pm
The award-winning Collingswood Book Festival features over 50 presenting authors and an additional 250 authors and exhibitors. Known as the longest running literary event in the Delaware Valley, book lovers of all ages can find authors and book signings, new and used book sales, exhibitors, vendors, poetry, storytellers, rare book appraisals, Loompaland kids zone and more.
Haddon Avenue and Irvin Avenue, Collingswood, NJ
Cost: Free
Ridgefield Park Music Fest Street Fair
October 4, 10 am – 5 pm
Main Street will come alive as a giant town block party from Park Street to Cedar Street, presented by the Ridgefield Park Board of Commissioners. Open from 10 AM to 5 PM, rain or shine, the fair draws thousands of music lovers each fall. Live bands will perform on the Cedar Street stage while a DJ hosts games and activities near Park Street. Attendees can browse quality exhibitors, a dedicated arts & crafts section, local merchants, and civic organizations, enjoy live entertainment, festival foods, gourmet food trucks, and kiddie rides. The Kids’ Zone features bounce rides, slides, face painting, sand art, and interactive games, making the event fun for the whole family.
234 Main Street, Ridgefield Park, NJ
Cost: Free Admission
Thamizh Heritage Food Festival
October 4, 11 am – 5 pm
The Thamizh Heritage Food Festival comes to Princeton Country Club on Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 11 AM to 5 PM, offering a vibrant celebration of Tamil culture through food, music, and traditions. Guests can enjoy authentic dishes from regions including Karaikudi, Madurai, Tirunelveli, Kumbakonam, and Vada Chennai, along with live cooking demos, Tamil folk music and dance, karaoke with SenArt Senthil Innisai, and beats from DJ Shan. The family-friendly event also features cultural performances and Rajni Mandram fans, with tickets priced at $25 for adults (13 and up, lunch included), $15 for kids ages 7–12, and free admission for children 6 and under.
1 Wheeler Way, Princeton, NJ
Cost: $25, Kids $15
Salem NJ 350th Anniversary Celebration
October 4, 11 am – 8 pm
Salem, NJ is celebrating its 350th anniversary with Lenape guests, Quaker and Underground Railroad reenactors, and live music indoors and outdoors for this day-long event in the historic district of the city. The free event will feature kid activities, artisan vendors, glass blowing, a fire performance and carriage rides to keep your family entertained. A grand finale, Light Up Salem, drone show will cap the day at 7pm.
Broadway and Market Sts, Salem, NJ, 58 East Broadway, Salem, NJ
Cost: Free
Diwali in Norwood
October 4, 3 pm – 7 pm
“Diwali in Norwood-Curated by Kanika” is truly back by popular demand for the second year in a row and proudly focuses on being a family-friendly where parents can engage with their children at each culturally focused, interactive station. The event will showcase food, dance, music, arts & crafts, henna, and shopping from India. The event is open to all, and free to attend! Most activities are free of charge thanks to all that donated to the GoFundMe campaign though guests will have to pay for their own food and henna tattoos. Diwali in Norwood is the passion project of Kanika Chadha. Inspired by her then 5 year old son, who after attending Christmas tree lightings and menorah lightings, curiously asked his Mom why there wasn’t a Diwali Diya lighting, Kanika decided to create a family-friendly showcase of Indian culture.
Kennedy Field, Norwood NJ
Cost: Free
Belleville Food Truck and Music Fest
October 4, 2 pm – 9 pm
Food! Beer! Music! Fun! It’s a fun filled family day. Over 20 Gourmet Food Trucks, music, pony rides, petting zoo, knockerball, hatchet tossing, inflatables, face painting, sand art, vendors & a beer, sangria & margarita garden. Bring your appetite, lawn chairs, pop ups and blankets.
Belleville High School, 100 Passaic Ave, Belleville, NJ
Cost: Free
North Brunswick Heritage Day
October 4, 3 pm Rain date is Sunday, October 5
Some of the day’s activities include local bands, dancing, games, food vendors, crafters, beer garden, school organizations, and local businesses. David Cedeno & His Orchestra will be performing at 3:15 p.m. The Ann Marie Chandlee Volunteer Service Award ceremony is scheduled for 7 p.m. The Great American Soul Book will be performing at 5:45 p.m. and at 7:15 p.m. A fireworks show will cap off the evening.
2051 Route 130, North Brunswick, NJ
Cost: Free
Jersey City Night Market: Latin Food and Music Night:
October 4, 3 pm – 9 pm
It’s back! The newest edition to the JC foodie scene is a hyper-local, evening market that’s hosted at City Hall – City of Jersey City. Celebrate small business and all that is chill about Jersey City! Eat delicious and international bites, shop from our artists and artisans & vibe to some music.
City Hall Lot, 179 Montgomery Street Jersey City, NJ
Cost: Free
Glassboro Art Walk & Night Market
October 4, 4 pm – 9 pm
This inspiring festival will include dozens of local and area glassblowers, sculptors, painters, metalsmiths, and woodworkers, plus a multitude of other handcrafters that will offer their items for sale and be demonstrating their skills and craftsmanship right before your eyes! The night market offers visitors the chance to browse a variety of goods while basking in a festival atmosphere full of food and other alfresco fun in Downtown Glassboro. Families are invited to interact with artists, create, and see demonstrations that emphasize the way art keeps everyone connected to the past and improves the present, and why preserving art is important for the future.
1 High Street W, Glassboro, NJ
Cost: Free
Moonlit Market
October 4, 6 pm
Moonlit Market is an open-air night market in Rahway that brings together art, small-batch creations, and artisan-made goods in a lantern-lit setting next to the Union County Performing Arts Center. Shoppers can browse unique finds directly from local makers while On Fire Entertainment provides music to set the cosmic vibe. Vendors will showcase everything from home and garden décor, handcrafted jewelry, and fine art to upcycled fashion, candles, bath products, and seasonal items. Presented as part of Rahway’s Festival of the Moon, the market highlights the creativity of small businesses and artists at the heart of the community.
1591 Irving Street, Rahway, NJ
Cost: Free
Festival of Fine Craft at WheatonArts
October 4 & 5, 10 am – 5 pm
Featuring 125+ juried artists mastering various mediums, crafting demos, family art activities, live music, gourmet food trucks, and a Beer & Wine Garden for those 21+, it’s a must-visit. Don’t miss the Glass Pumpkin Patch Fundraiser supporting WheatonArts’ education efforts. An award-winning annual showcase, promising a delightful experience for all attendees.
1000 Village Drive, Millville, NJ
Cost: $14 adults, $13 senior adults (62+), $8 students, and children five and under are free
Cranberry Fest
October 4 & 5, 11 am – 5 pm
This two-day event features over 150 crafters, artists, and vendors offering handmade, vintage, and upcycled items for the heart and home! One of the oldest and largest juried craft shows in NJ. “Craft” beer garden and food court, plus live music throughout both days.
Farnsworth Ave, Bordentown, NJ
Cost: Free
Grand Harvest Wine Festival
October 4 & 5, 12 pm – 5 pm
The Grand Harvest Wine Festival returns to Fosterfields Living Historical Farm for a weekend of fall fun, wine tasting, and artisan shopping. Sample wines from top New Jersey wineries, grab bites from gourmet food trucks, and browse unique hand-made goods from local artisans. It’s the perfect autumn outing for wine lovers and festival fans alike.
73 Kahdena Rd, Morristown, NJ 07960
Cost: $25 for Guests 21+ Ticket price goes up to $30 CASH ONLY at the door. All Spectators and Non-Samplers are $5 Guests under 21 are FREE
Vintage & Craft Fair at the Fanwood Train Station
October 5, 9 am to 4 pm
Open to the public from 9 AM to 4 PM, this event will take place on the south side of the NJ Transit Train Station at 256 South Avenue, with ample visitor parking on the north side. The event features a Vintage Area with vendors offering antiques, collectibles, retro and repurposed items, shabby chic décor, and more. The Arts & Crafts area showcases a wide range of makers selling artwork, sculptures, photography, metalwork, designer jewelry, ceramics, fiber art, botanicals, candles, personal care items, specialty foods, and more. Visitors can also enjoy gourmet food trucks and live performances throughout the day.
256 South Avenue, Fanwood, NJ
Cost: Free Admission
The New Jersey Reptile Show
October 5, 9 am – 4 pm
The debut New Jersey Reptile Show will be bringing a new family-friendly tradition to the Garden State. With only 1,000 tickets available, this community-driven event will feature reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, and exotic animals up close, along with top breeders and vendors from across the Tri-State area, including NJ Exotic Pets, Major League Exotic Pets, and more. Visitors can shop for captive-bred animals, supplies, and feeders, enjoy educational opportunities, and grab food and drinks at the VFW restaurant and snack bar.
VFW Post 2179 1 Veterans Ln Port Monmouth, NJ
Cost: General admission is $20, and children under 5 are free.
Harvesfest Fest Fair
October 5, 10 am – 5 pm
The Harvest Fest Fair in Veterans Park, Westwood, features 125 exhibitors showcasing arts, crafts, antiques, and collectibles. Shoppers can explore handmade items, vintage treasures, jewelry, pottery, folk art, florals, chain saw animals, wind chimes, birdhouses, children’s items, seasonal décor, and more. Festival foods, homemade pickles, pretzels, desserts, and kettle korn will also be available, making it the perfect fall shopping outing.
Veterans Memorial Park, Broadway & 3rd Ave, Westwood, NJ
Cost: Free
Pride at the Zoo
October 5, 10 am – 4 pm
This family-friendly event celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community with a day full of activities, including food trucks, music, animal enrichment, and informational tables. The event is free with zoo admission.
216 Forest Ave, Paramus, NJ
Cost: Free with Zoo Admission
Springfield’s Annual Fall Festival and Car Show
October 5, 11 am – 5 pm
The Springfield Fall Festival & Car Show returns to Mountain Avenue with free admission, food trucks, vendors, live music, a beer garden, and family fun including pony rides, a petting zoo, a trackless train, a $5 Inflatable Kids Zone, and a pumpkin patch. The car show will feature both exotic and classic vehicles, with registration available online or at the gate for $20.
100 Mountain Avenue, Springfield NJ
Cost: Free Admission
Asbury Park Punk Rock Flea Market
October 5, 11 am – 5 pm
The APPRFM is back in it’s home of Asbury Park NJ!! This year they will take over Bradley Park with amazing and creative vendors selling records, vintage, artwork, jewelry and other creepy and music-related items.
Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel, Asbury Park, NJ
Cost: $5
The Caldwell Street Fair
October 5, 12 pm – 5 pm
Experience the magic of the Caldwell Street Fair, renowned as the finest in all of New Jersey! Each year, the fair attracts an impressive crowd of nearly 30,000 attendees, all eager to explore and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. The fair boasts more than 200 diverse vendors, offering a unique blend of arts and crafts, mouth-watering food, refreshing spirits, and an array of local businesses showcasing their gems. Don’t miss the rhythmic pulse of music at the Beergarden, presented by the esteemed Cloverleaf Tavern. From exhilarating carnival rides, inflatables, and mini golf, to imaginative face painting and riveting boardwalk games, there’s something for every child to enjoy.
395 Bloomfield Ave, Caldwell, NJ
Cost: Free
Point Pleasant Beach Book & Literacy Festival
October 5, 12 pm – 4 pm
The Little Point Bookshop, in collaboration with Doug Vitale and the Mayor’s Wellness Campaign, will host the annual Point Pleasant Beach Book & Literacy Festival. Enjoy author talks, signings, local vendors, and live music from Decoy Band as we celebrate literacy, wellness, and community.
Bandshell Corner of Arnold Ave and Baltimore Ave, Point Pleasant, NJ
Cost: Free to attend
Woodlands Wildlife Refuge Community Day
October 5, 1 pm – 5 pm
Woodlands will host its annual Community Day, offering a rare chance for the public to explore one of New Jersey’s leading wildlife rehabilitation centers. Normally closed except for patient admissions and educational programs, Woodlands will open its doors for self-guided tours, wildlife-focused activities for kids, and expert discussions on wildlife topics. Visitors can meet resident animals like the Sulcata tortoise, Eastern box turtle, and corn snake, and enjoy live animal presentations by Eyes of The Wild. Admission donations include tours, presentations, food, and select children’s activities.
676 County Road 513, Pittstown, NJ
Cost: $25
A Celebration of Pets
October 5, 1 pm – 4 pm
The event will feature a variety of pet-oriented businesses, including animal shelters, fostering groups, pet sitters, and artisans who create products for and about pets. Attendees can enjoy music, food, and activities for kids, as well as a PET PARADE at 2:30 p.m., with prizes in several categories. Pets may also receive a blessing for those who wish. The event is free, rain or shine, and all are welcome, with or without a pet.
Verona Town Hall Center, 600 Bloomfield Avenue, Verona, NJ
Cost: Free
Marlboro Restaurant Week
October 5 – 12
Marlboro will host it’s first restaurant week! Participating restaurants and their restaurant week offerings will be announced on the
Restaurant Week website At this time, the participating restaurants include: Amorina, Ristorante Italiano, Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza & Wings, Aunt Butchie’s of Brooklyn, Istanbul Bay Premium, Mizu Sushi and Asian Fusion, Over Easy Kitchen, Rosalita’s Roadside Cantina, SamVera, and Sette Wood Burning Bistro.
Marlboro, NJ
The Week of October 6th – October 12th:
Flavor of Freehold
October 8 & 9, 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
A unique tour of Downtown Freehold’s venerable restaurants, bars, and shops held over two days. Participants walk from place to place with their “Passport” used as a guide of where to go. Everyone will receive signature samples from some of Freehold’s most loved establishments.
Downtown Freehold, 10 East Main Street, Freehold, NJ
Cost: $25
The Fall NJ Gem Show
October 8 – 12
This five-day interactive event will attract collectors, shop owners, gemologists, artists, miners, designers, and metaphysical practitioners from across the globe. With dozens of participating vendors, attendees can purchase and explore an extensive array of rare gems, fossils, minerals, and more! Additionally, The Fall NJ Gem Show will also feature a host of family-friendly interactive elements like a dino dig pit, metal detecting, geode cracking, gemstone sluicing, and panning for gemstones, as well as a rubber ducky hunt throughout the event grounds, which can be exchanged for special prizes.
NJ Convention Center, 97 Sunfield Ave, Edison, NJ
Cost: $10+
Newark Arts Festival
October 8 – 12
The Newark Arts Festival will be held in various locations throughout Newark, NJ. The festival invites attendees to envision a world where art, culture, and interconnectedness are foundational to systems and beliefs. It encourages participants to deconstruct and rebuild societal norms to promote equity and justice through creativity and cultural strategy. By reimagining life and embracing collaborative problem-solving, the event aims to create enriching communities, honor past triumphs, and inspire future generations.
Newark Museum of Art, 49 Washington St, Newark, NJ and several locations within Newark NJ
Cost: Free
Hopewell’s Annual Amazing Pumpkin Carve
October 9 – 12
This event is an old-time festival with expanded activities – including live music, fire pits with storytelling, games, face painting…and of course, the outrageously carved giant pumpkins.
Woosley Park, 221 Washington Crossing-Pennington Rd, Hopewell Township, NJ
Cost: $5 – $17
Greek Agora Food Festival
October 9 – 12
The largest Wine & Food Festival in the Delaware Valley! Since 1974, the Greek Agora signature event kicks off with all-day festivals of food, wine, music, dance and song. The four-day-long festival is an annual initiative of the Saint Thomas Greek Orthodox Church in Cherry Hill, NJ which, every October, stages a number of events that represent the Greek way of life.
615 Mercer Street, Cherry Hill, NJ
Cost: Free to Attend
ProgStock Festival
October 9 – 12
ProgStock is the American Northeast’s only international progressive rock festival, a three-day event taking place on the weekend in the Rivoli Theater of the Williams Center, located at 15 Sylvan Street.
Williams Center, 15 Sylvan St, Rutherford, NJ
Cost: Varies
Annual LBI FLY International Kite Festival
October 10 & 11
The event features a weekend with brilliant colorful artist design kites, fun flying giant inflatable kites and the amazing show of sport kiting to our beautiful island. Many of these fliers are invited guests in prestigious festivals around the world. This free and cross-generational event will yield even more spectacular and unusual kites this year – as well as displayed at local galleries prior to the festival.
Ship Bottom, Long Beach Island, NJ
Cost: Free
Ocean County Columbus Day Parade & Italian Street Festival
October 10 – 12
Celebrating the Annual Columbus Day Parade and Italian Heritage Festival. A fun-filled weekend of food, friends, and Italian Culture. The Parade will be held on Sunday at 1 pm, on the Boulevard from J Street to Sampson Avenue.
Grant Ave, Seaside Heights, NJ
Cost: Free
Lima Bean Festival
October 11, 9 am – 4 pm
The lowly legume takes center stage delighting locals and visitors alike with her vast array of recipes, crafts and products available. Come out and celebrate West Cape May’s farming heritage with lima bean soup, tacos, salad, jewelry, T-shirts and more! Enjoy great food, quality vendors, antiques, crafts, entertainment and fun.
Wilbraham Park, Perry S, West Cape May, NJ
Cost: Free
Fall Block Party and Fireworks Spectacular
October 11, 9 am – 5 pm
This annual family event features over 400 crafters, food vendors, music, and more. In the evening, fireworks over the boardwalk from 6th Street – 14th Street.
6th – 14th Streets on Asbury Ave., Ocean City, NJ
Cost: Free to attend
Berlin’s Annual Fall Festival
October 11, 10 am – 4 pm
This event features a Mutt Strut dog costume parade, pumpkin painting, a car show, food merchants and a beer garden.
Berlin Boro County Park, 43 S Park Drive, Berlin, NJ
Cost: Free
Avalon Art & Seafood Festival
October 11, 10 am – 5 pm
Taste delectable treats from the sea at the Chamber’s Annual Seafood Festival. Featuring fresh seafood vendors, chowder contest, live music, vendors, and more. This year, the Avalon Arts & Seafood Festival will feature a focus on vendors with original artwork and photography, craft and artisan items, food, and island businesses.
30th Street and the Beach, Avalon, NJ
Cost: Free to attend
Pork Roll Palooza
October 11, 11 am – 5 pm. Rain Date Oct 12
Norwescap, in partnership with the Phillipsburg Downtown Association, is hosting the Annual Pork Roll Palooza. The event will take place at Shappell Park in the heart of downtown and offers a family-friendly day of live music, games, and delicious food. Vendors are invited to showcase and sell their gourmet creations, arts and crafts, products, and services to a crowd of more than 3,000 visitors from across the region.
Shappell Park, Phillipsburg, NJ
Cost: Free
Twp of Washington Food Truck and Music Fest
October 11, 11 am – 7 pm
Food! Beer! Music! Fun! It’s a fun filled family day. Over 20 Gourmet Food Trucks, music, pony rides, petting zoo, knockerball, hatchet tossing, inflatables, face painting, sand art, vendors & a beer, sangria & margarita garden. Bring your appetite, lawn chairs, pop ups and blankets.
Washington Lake Park, 626 Hurfville -Crosskeys Road, Sewell, NJ
Cost: $7, kids under 5 are free
BarronFest: Woodbridge’s Annual Fine Arts & Crafts Festival
October 11, 12 pm – 4 pm
Woodbridge’s annual fine arts and crafts festival is back featuring pottery, paintings, glasswork, ceramics, photography, metal work, hand-crafted jewelry, fabric art, weaving, and more—featuring 40+ talented artists and crafters.
400 Rahway Ave, Woodbridge, NJ
Cost: Free
Annual Fall Taste of Highlands
October 11, 12 pm – 5 pm
The event features a fall theme and offers five hours of food samplings and cocktails from 18 local restaurants and retailers, rain or shine. Tickets are $45 and include a map of participating businesses, tastings, access to the Seastreak Courtesy Shuttle, and free parking. Attendees check in at Huddy Park to receive their map and bracelet, collect stamps at each stop, and can enter to win tickets to future events by visiting all stops and returning the completed map. Tickets are available at highlandsnj.com or on the day of the event.
Huddy Park Check in, 329 Bay Ave. Highlands, NJ
Cost: $45
Haddon Township Annual Music Festival
October 11, 1 pm – 9 pm
Haddon Township will hold it’s Annual Music Festival on Haddon Ave. between Strawbridge Ave. and Cooper St. in the heart of the downtown. The Haddon Township Music Festival is a perfect getaway for music aficionados who prefer to ‘experience” live music and interact with artists from all over the Delaware Valley. The lineup features a diverse range of acts, spanning many different musical genres on two separate stages. The avenue will be lined with food trucks, local artisans, beer gardens, a kid-zone and a 70” foot ferriswheel. The event is free and open to the public and approximately four blocks from the Westmont PATCO Speedline.
Haddon Ave. between Strawbridge Ave. and Cooper St., Haddon Twp, NJ
Cost: Free
Catsbury Cat Con
October 11 & 12
Hosted by the Asbury Park-based nonprofit Catsbury Park, this two-day event brings together cat lovers, rescue advocates, and curious visitors for a weekend of feline-filled fun, with all proceeds supporting lifesaving work for cats and kittens in need. Headliners for this year include internationally known kitten rescuer and educator Hannah “Kitten Lady” Shaw and beloved cat behaviorist and TV personality Jackson Galaxy. Attendees can also enjoy Catman Bingo, Neptune Tattooville’s cat tattoo contest, a pop-up Cat Café, on-site adoptions, vet-led workshops, and more than 50 cat-themed vendors.
Bell Works, 101 Crawfords Corner Rd, Holmdel, NJ
Cost: $25+ Kids 5 and under are Free.
Atlantic City Comedy Festival
October 11 & 12
The Atlantic City Comedy Festival features two days of hilarious entertainment. There are a total of 2 shows, with one show each day. Each show typically features 5, and sometimes more, comedians each day.
Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ
Somerset County’s Journey Through The Past
October 11 & 12
Make a vibrant connection to history at Somerset County’s annual Journey Through the Past! Bring the whole family as you explore the vast history of Somerset County and discover what life was like 50, 100, or even 200 years ago! 30 historic sites throughout Somerset County will be open free to the public.
Somerset County, NJ
Cost: Free
Mahwah Museum Hosts Mahwah Revolutionary Run, Walk, Talk
October 11 & 12
The Mahwah Museum will host a Revolutionary-themed weekend on October 11 and 12, 2025, in partnership with Bergen 250 and RevNJ 250 to mark America’s upcoming 250th anniversary. On Saturday at 4:30 PM, historian Dr. Robert A. Selig will present “The Garden of America and the Washington-Rochambeau National Historic Trail 1781” at the Mahwah Museum, exploring Franco-American encounters during the Revolution. On Sunday at 8:30 AM, the celebration continues with the Mahwah Revolutionary 5K Run and 1-Mile Fun Walk at Ramapo Valley County Reservation, featuring a Town Crier proclamation, historic scenery, and an awards ceremony. Registration is required for both events, with tickets and race sign-ups available online.
201 Franklin Turnpike, Mahwah, NJ
Stafford Fall & Harvest Wine Festival
October 11 & 12, 12 pm – 5 pm
The Stafford Fall Harvest & Wine Festival returns to Heritage Park in Manahawkin offering the perfect autumn celebration along the foot of Long Beach Island. Guests can sample and purchase wines from nine New Jersey wineries, including Tomasello, Valenzano, and Wagonhouse, while enjoying live music, local food trucks, and artisan crafters. With delicious bites ranging from BBQ to seafood and Cuban cuisine, plus handmade goods like candles, soaps, desserts, and cheeses, the festival combines seasonal flavors, shopping, and entertainment into one of the region’s most anticipated fall events.
49 West Bay Avenue, Manahawkin, NJ
Cost: $20
Bark for Life of Central Jersey
October 12, 9 am – 1 pm
Join participants for the Annual Bark For Life of Central NJ – a certified 5K Fun Walk and festival to honor canine caregivers and cancer survivors.
Bell Works, Holmdel, NJ
Cost: Register here
Califon Street Fair
October 12, 11 am – 4 pm
All are welcome to attend this free event. Sections of Main Street will be closed to automobile traffic and the historic downtown area will be transformed into a communal scene of fall fun, shopping, food, and entertainment. Attendees will be able to stroll through Califon’s picturesque downtown and enjoy exquisite artisans and crafters, a variety of tasty food trucks and vendors, beer garden, pie eating contest and live music.
Downtown Califon, 53 Main Street, Califon, NJ
Cost: Free
Holistic Health & Healing Expo
October 12, 11 am to 5 pm
The Holistic Health & Healing Expo is the go-to resource for natural wellness and green living in South Jersey and Philadelphia. The HHH expo is dedicated to empowering individuals to live a healthier lifestyle on a healthier planet, educating communities on the latest in natural health and sustainability, inspiring them to lead more balanced lives.
DoubleTree by Hilton Cherry Hill Philadelphia, 2349 Marlton Pike West Cherry Hill, NJ
Cost: Free, VIP $5
Blackwood Pumpkin Show
October 12, 11 am – 4 pm
This family-friendly event, organized by the Mainstage Center for the Arts, is a beloved tradition that draws visitors from across the region to celebrate the fall season. The festival features a variety of activities, including pumpkin painting, hayrides, moon bounces, live music, food vendors, a petting zoo, face painting, scarecrow building, and even costume contests.
Black Horse Pike area at Harwan Park, Blackwood, NJ
Cost: Free
The Week of October 13th – 19th:
Seton Village Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival
October 17, 5 pm – 10 pm
This lively event will feature some of the area’s best food trucks offering a variety of culinary delights, perfect for food enthusiasts and comfort food lovers alike. Beer lovers can enjoy the return of the Beer Garden, sponsored by Gaslight Brewery, which will serve a selection of craft beers. With live entertainment, delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a festive atmosphere, the event is a perfect opportunity to gather with family, friends, and neighbors.
Irvington Ave, South Orange, NJ
Cost: Free to attend
New Jersey Restaurant Week
October 17 – 23
The New Jersey Restaurant Week is a statewide event hosted by the New Jersey Restaurant & Hospitality Association in effort to promote restaurants across the state. The event will take place from Friday, October 17, through Thursday, October 23, 2025, and is open to all Garden State restaurants.
State Wide
Annual Montclair Film Festival
October 17 – 26
The annual Montclair Film Festival will entertain film lovers and professionals from across the region and country with ten days of compelling independent films, comedies, documentaries, panels, family events and work by emerging artists. The festival will provide a platform for talented filmmakers from around the world and give special recognition to New Jersey artists
486 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair, NJ
Cost: Varies
Annual Sussex County Harvest Honey and Garlic Festival
October 18, 10 am – 4 pm
This family festival is a celebration of agritourism, ecotourism and arts & heritage tourism. The Festival will include local artisans, crafters and vendors plus displays highlighting northern New Jersey’s great open spaces and natural history. For kids there’ll be a hay ride, pumpkin painting, face painting and crafts.
Sussex County Fairgrounds, 37 Plains Road, Branchville, NJ
Cost: Free
New Jersey Seafood Festival
October 18, 11 am – 7 pm
The event celebrates the best of the Jersey Shore’s seafood offerings, bringing together seafood lovers from across the state. Attendees can expect an array of fresh, local seafood dishes from various vendors, including oysters, lobster, crab cakes, and more. Along with the fantastic food, the festival will feature live music, entertainment, and local vendors offering unique crafts and products. Bell Works’ vibrant atmosphere provides the perfect setting for a day filled with great food, drinks, and fun.
Bell Works, Holmdel, NJ
Cost: $5, kids under 5 are free
New Jersey Oyster Festival
October 18, 12 pm – 5 pm
This event features local oyster purveyors featuring their oysters. Taste them all and vote for you favorite for the People’s Choice Award! If you’re more surf than turf, they will have local food trucks serving delicious choices for you. The activities and vendors include: Shucking Contest! Vendors! Brewing companies! Wine! Silent Auction! Special Speakers!
2800 High Street, Port Norris, NJ
Cost: $50 per person and includes a commemorative wine or beer glass and a sampling of oysters
Cranford Pumkin Carve Out
October 18, 5 pm
Cranford’s Annual Pumpkin Carve-Out and Parade of Pumpkins returns to Hanson Park hosted by Jersey Central Art Studios with support from the Cranford Jaycees and Hanson Park Conservancy. This free, family-friendly tradition invites participants to drop off carved pumpkins between 9 AM and 2 PM, then return in the evening from 5 to 8:30 PM to stroll candlelit paths lined with pumpkins on display. Prizes will be awarded for the funniest, scariest, and most original carvings in age groups 4–8, 9–16, and 17+, with pumpkins available for pickup after 9 PM.
38 Springfield Ave, Cranford, NJ
Cost: Free
The New Jersey Lighthouse Challenge
October 18 & 19
The New Jersey Lighthouses and select museums happily announce that they are again hosting New Jersey Lighthouse Challenge weekend. Visitors can enjoy an opportunity to tour the state and visit each lighthouse over the weekend and help raise needed funds for the continued preservation of our treasured landmarks. The challenge is to visit 10 land-based lighthouses, 3 lifesaving stations, 1 museum, 1 virtual site, and the Lighthouse Society of NJ site over the two-day weekend. The challenge route covers the Atlantic Coast from Sandy Hook to Cape May and the Delaware Bay and River Coast from Cape May to Paulsboro. A small registration fee enables you to collect a souvenir from each site.
At Participating NJ Lighthouses
Annual Chatsworth Cranberry Festival
October 18 & 19
This family event features a juried craft show with over 150 vendors, 15 food vendors, and live music.
Downtown Chatsworth, NJ
Cost: Free
Rose Squared Art Show Fall Brookdale Park
October 18 & 19, 10 am – 5 pm. Rain or Shine
Rose Squared Art Shows presents more than 130 artisans at Brookdale Park. This event showcases both fine art and fine craft with works in apothecary, artisanal foods, ceramics, jewelry, wood, digital art, decorative and wearable fiber, furniture, glass, painting, 2D/3D mixed media and photography.
Brookdale Park, 473 Watchung Ave, Bloomfield, NJ
Cost: Free
18th Century Field Day and Fall Harvest Festival
October 19, 10 am – 4 pm
Step back in time and experience history come alive! Enjoy thrilling battle reenactments, hands-on colonial demonstrations, and meet friendly farm animals. Kids can dive into fun with games, crafts, and interactive activities, while the whole family will be entertained by a magical performance and other surprises throughout the day
Red Bank Battlefield, 100 Hessian Ave. National Park, NJ
Cost: Free
Celebrate Fall
October 19, 11 am – 3 pm
This family event features games, crafts, music, and of course goats…these are just a few of the activities that are part of our eagerly anticipated Celebrate Fall Festival! With Halloween right around the corner, families can explore the Spooky Trail and enjoy the golden, autumn colors of our gardens, crisp weather, and some yummy treats from market vendors.
Reeves-Reed Arboretum, 165 Hobart Ave, Summit, NJ
Cost: $15, free for under 3
Cherry Hill Harvest Festival
October 19, 12 pm – 4 pm
Cherry Hill Township is partnering with the police and fire departments for the township’s largest community event. The event includes pony rides, a petting zoo, craft fair, pumpkins, live music, food trucks, a beer garden by Forgotten Boardwalk Brewery, and more.
Croft Farms, 100 Bortons Mills Road, Cherry Hill, NJ
Cost: Free
Tenafly’s Annual Fall Festival
October 19, 12 pm – 5 pm
The Tenafly Fall Festival brings seasonal fun to Downtown Tenafly with live music, dance performances, food trucks, artisanal vendors, kids’ rides, pumpkin activities, a Monster Mash DJ dance party, and the always-popular Halloween Costume Contest. Visitors can also enjoy seasonal cocktails at the Hive & Honey mobile bar, catch the big game on a giant LED screen, or test their skills in PSE&G’s mobile escape room.
Downtown Tenafly, NJ
Cost: Free
Wayne Valley H.S. Fall Craft Show
October 19, 10 am – 5pm
The annual Wayne Valley Fall Craft Show brings over 100 exhibitors from three states together under one roof at Wayne Valley High School. shoppers can explore a wide variety of arts and crafts, including pressed flower art, hand-crafted jewelry, wind chimes, florals, decorated porch signs, ornaments, apparel, fiber art, stained glass, birdhouses, seasonal décor, pottery, ceramics, chain saw animals, tie dye, charcuterie boards, crochet animals, children’s items, and much more. a breakfast and lunch menu will be available in the café, with a bake table at the entrance and homemade pickles and kettle korn outside—perfect for early holiday shopping.
Wayne Valley High School, 551 Valley Rd, Wayne, NJ
Cost: $3
The Week of October 20 – 26:
Day of the Dead
October 23, 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Celebrate with a Mariachi Band, sugar skull face painting, and send a message to your deceased loved ones in the fire pit.
44 E Washington Ave, Washington, NJ
Cost: Free
Randolph Halloween Food Truck and Treat Fest
October 25, 11 am – 6 pm
Food! Beer! Music! Fun! It’s a fun filled family day. Over 20 Gourmet Food Trucks, music, pony rides, petting zoo, knockerball, hatchet tossing, inflatables, face painting, sand art, vendors & a beer, sangria & margarita garden. Bring your appetite, lawn chairs, pop ups and blankets.
County College of Morris, Lot #1, 214 Center Grove Rd, Randolph, NJ
Cost: $5, kids under 5 are free
The Bazaar Fall Festival at Whitechapel Projects
October 26, 12 pm to 5 pm
Don’t miss The Bazaar’s Annual Fall Festival at Whitechapel Projects in Long Branch, NJ! This free event features a Halloween pet costume contest, workshops, music, fall-themed activities, and trick-or-treating for kids. Shop a curated market of local artisans, enjoy s’mores by the fire, and capture fall photo moments. Activities include a bead bar to customize sunnies, permanent jewelry, tarot readings, face painting, and more. Delicious food, craft beers, and libations will be available, with music by DJ Astrovan. Early shoppers can snag a free tote bag, and workshops include a paint and sip session and cookie decorating.
15 2nd Ave, Long Branch, NJ
Cost: Free
Cape May Restaurant Weekend
October 30 – November 2
Enjoy an appetizer, entree, and dessert for a fixed price at Cape May’s best restaurants.
Cape May, NJ
