With another potential snowstorm on the way, Saturday looks like the better day for weekend plans. Take a break from shoveling and sledding and go to a KPop Demon Hunters sing-along, a Labubu lunch, or a Groundhog Day celebration. Always check for updates before heading out.
WEEKEND
Nature & Stories
Plainsboro Preserve, Plainsboro
Thursday
Kids ages 2 to 7 will listen to stories about nature and animals, followed by crafts or activities based on a special winter nature theme.
Center City District Restaurant Week
Center City, Philadelphia, PA
Thursday – Saturday
Dozens of restaurants across Center City will offer exclusive limited-time menus at a discounted price: three-course dinners for $45 per person, with select locations offering a $60 premium option; or a two-course lunch menu for $20.
Antique Toy Train Show
The Museum of American History, Deptford
Thursday – Sunday
See toy trains from the 1930s, ‘40s and ‘50s, including Lionel, Marx and American Flyer engines. Plasticville buildings from the 1950s will give the platforms a vintage holiday appearance.
Greek Winter Feast
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, Egg Harbor Twp.
Friday – Sunday
There will be authentic Greek food and pastries, cocktails, Greek dance performances, and DJ entertainment.
Narnia The Musical
Burgdorff Center for the Performing Arts, Maplewood
Friday – Sunday
The Maplewood Strollers present their midwinter children’s show based on the book The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis.
Lambertville New Hope Winter Festival
Lambertville, NJ; and New Hope, PA
Friday – Sunday
The party kicks off Friday with a concert by Tom Rush, continues Saturday with a Winter Festival Dance Night, and wraps up Sunday with a chili cookoff.
Somerset County 4-H Winter Train Show
Ted Blum 4-H Center, Bridgewater
Saturday – Sunday
See over 1,000 feet of track with more than 30 unique displays. There will be craft and train vendors on site as well.
FRIDAY
Paint & Sip
American Hungarian Foundation, New Brunswick
During this evening for creatives, paint a 12-by-16 painting led by AHF Executive Director Melissa Katko Pepin.
SATURDAY
Lunch with Labubu
MJ’s Restaurant, Matawan
There will be lunch with Labubu, a character meet-and-greet and photo ops.
Ragamala Dance Company: Sacred Earth
Pfleeger Concert Hall, Glassboro
Performed with live music, Ragamala’s Bharatanatyam dancers create a sacred space to show the relationship between nature and man.
The 33rd Fire & Ice Festival
Downtown Mount Holly
Watch ice block carvers, participate in a chili tasting contest, make winter crafts, buy from area artisans and vendors, sample delights from the food trucks & beer tent, photo ops with characters, learn from Revolutionary War Re-enactors/demonstrators, watch dog sled demonstrations and more.
KPop Demon Hunters Q&A and Sing-Along
Maplewood Memorial Library, Maplewood
This behind-the-scenes program features musicians from Maplewood and South Orange who were involved in the film’s Grammy-nominated soundtrack. Composer Greg Polzak and singer Julie Reiber Bennett will share insider stories from their work on the film, and then they’ll lead a sing-along.
Peter Rabbit Party
Cotsen Children’s Library, inside the Firestone Library, Princeton University campus, Princeton
The Cotsen Children’s Library gallery will transform into an English cottage and garden where 2- to 6-year-olds can serve tea, plant carrots, and learn more about Peter Rabbit’s creator, Beatrix Potter. Master Gardeners from the West Trenton Garden Club will help you to start a garden of your very own.
Revolutionary Pieces Jigsaw Puzzle Competition
Monmouth County Library, Manalapan
Celebrate National Puzzle Day by joining the first jigsaw puzzle competition at the library, where teams will race to complete a 500-piece puzzle.
Read & Explore: Animal Tracks
Terhune Orchards, Princeton
Kids will read books about animals in the winter. After storytime, they’ll make bird feeders with wild bird seed to take home. If it’s nice out, they will then go see the farm animals and look at their tracks.
Atlantic City Wing Fest
Golden Nugget Atlantic City
Presented by WMGM Rocks 103.7-FM, this food fest combines all-you-can-eat wings from 21 South Jersey restaurants, craft beer, cocktails, contests, and live music by The Billy Walton Band.
Ice Harvest
Howell Living History Farm, Hopewell Twp.
Neighbors once called Howell Farm the “ice farm” because they could buy ice from the pond to keep their milk cool on the way to the train station on Pleasant Valley Road. Come by to see the tools and technology that made ice harvesting a successful business at the turn of the 20th century with demonstrations of ice cutting, hauling, and handling. You can help pull ice blocks up the ramp to the ice house, chip ice to make ice cream, and make an ice candle to take home. Ice cream and snow cone samples will be available in the afternoon, and food will be available at the farmhouse for purchase.
Groundhog Day Celebration
The Watershed Institute, Pennington
Join Watershed Wally the Woodchuck as he celebrates winter but looks forward to the return of spring. Learn all about groundhogs, enjoy a hike to a groundhog hole, and try your hand at chucking wood with a catapult or trebuchet. There will be treats by the campfire.
Freestyle Flashback Concert
State Theatre New Jersey, New Brunswick
Experience legendary Freestyle and dance-pop artists of the ’80s and ’90s including TKA, George Lamond, The Cover Girls, Brenda K. Starr, Cynthia, Coro, Betty D, C-Bank and Joe Zangie.
Lockwood Lobby in the Matthews Theatre, McCarter Theatre Center, Princeton
Princeton favorite Jeff Trainor will perform songs from animated favorites alongside classic pop and soul in a music- and movement-based class for kids.
Creativity Labs: Art for Families
Princeton University Art Museum, Princeton
Drop in to explore a work of art, play with different materials, and work on some sculpture forms.
Soup Stroll
Rahway
Visit the participating restaurants, ask for a Soup Stroll Sample, and then warm up with a free 4-ounce sample of their featured soup. Walk to the next place, and take photos of your journey.
Rutgers Geology Museum Open House
Rutgers Geology Museum, New Brunswick
The theme of this year’s open house (the 58th consecutive) is minerals. Lectures and activities include New Jersey’s role in mining, a Stickersaurus book reading, fun with fluorescence, a presentation about Mars, and nature-themed crafts. The open house will include a gem, mineral and fossil show where you can buy gems to take home.
SUNDAY
Curious George: The Golden Meatball
BergenPAC, Englewood
The monkey star of the children’s book series goes on a loveable adventure filled with stories and music.
Snow Fest
Wicoff House Museum, Plainsboro
There will be snowy crafts and activities, storytime, a museum scavenger hunt, meet Olaf and other characters, and snacks like s’mores, hot chocolate and snowcones.
Youth Birding Hike
Schermann Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary, Bernardsville
Kids ages 10 to 16, whether they’re new to birding or have experience, can join the group to see who is living in the sanctuary for the winter.
Young Families Tu Bishvat: Happy Birthday Trees
Temple Sholom, Bridgewater
Kids in kindergarten and older will celebrate the Jewish Birthday of Trees by taking a maple sugaring tour, while little ones and their parents will explore the exhibits and do a tree-themed craft.
Beef & Brew St. Patrick’s Day Parade Fundraiser
Proving Ground, Highlands
There will be a buffet dinner with beer, a gift auction, Irish stepdancers and a pipe band as part of this fundraiser for the 2026 St. Patrick’s Day Parade (on March 21). The 2026 Grand Marshal, Mayor Carolyn Broullon, will be presented with her sash.
Winter Wonder Walk
Hawk Rise Sanctuary, Linden
Along the walk you will discuss the cold weather strategies of the animals you find at Hawk Rise. Hot beverages will be provided after.
Wassailing the Apple Trees
Terhune Orchards, Princeton
This festival is based on the ancient British tradition of protecting the trees and asking for a fruitful harvest. There will be singing and dancing with The Handsome Molly Dancers and Kingessing Morris Dancers, hot apple cider, the placing of cider-soaked bread under the trees, live music and marshmallow roasting.
The Little Mermaid Sing-Along
State Theatre New Jersey, New Brunswick
Before you trade in your voice like Ariel does, belt out “Part Of Your World” and “Under the Sea” as you watch the film live on screen.
Sunday Afternoon Bird Walk
Schermann Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary, Bernardsville
Take an afternoon family bird walk, and you’ll look for all the birds that live in the preserve for the winter.
Full Moon Walk
Plainsboro Preserve, Cranbury
Take a peaceful nature walk under the glow of the full moon. You’ll pass by McCormack Lake. Open to families.
Groundhogs, Woodchucks & Whistlepigs…Oh My!
Historic Walnford, Upper Freehold
Stop by to learn about groundhogs and make a groundhog of your own inside the historical kitchen.
New Year, New Hue Night
Color Factory NYC, New York, NY
This interactive art experience is all about color. During this event, you will get free aura photography to show the unique energy you’re bringing into 2026.
Hannah Till: Black History in the Revolutionary War Era
The Woodland Parlor, South Orange
Historical interpreter Leslie Bramlett will make the connection between the birth of America and the history of African Americans. She’ll appear as Hannah Till, an enslaved cook and servant to General George Washington.
ONGOING
Ballet for Toddlers
Princeton Public Library, Princeton
Ongoing, Fridays
This interactive dance workshop introduces kids ages 2-4 and their adult caregivers to the basics of ballet.
Updike Farmstead Museum and Grounds Tours
Updike Farmstead Museum, Princeton
Ongoing, Fridays and Saturdays
Take a 30-minute guided tour of the headquarters of the Historical Society of Princeton. The late 18th-/early 19th-century farmhouse museum, grounds, renovated barn and recently restored wagon shed include exhibits of Einstein Salon and Innovators Gallery, featuring HSP’s collection of Albert Einstein’s furniture and other personal belongings; and Princeton Reflected: Stories from HSP’s Collection.
Kiss & Tell Pop-Up Bar
The Bistro at iPlay America, Freehold Twp.
January 30 – February 22
A full menu of love-themed food, drinks and mocktails will be available inside the restaurant, which will be fully decorated with hearts, Cupids and other Valentine’s decor.
Cattus Island Nature Walks
Cooper Environmental Center, Cattus Island County Park, Toms River
Saturdays-Sundays, January 31 – March 29
These walks have been taking place for 40 years, and have you join a park naturalist to walk through the park. Themes include: Groundhogs on January 31 and February 1; Hibernation on February 7 and 8; Winter Marsh Walk on February 14 and 15; Winter Birds on February 1 and 22; Backyard Birding on February 28 and March 1; Signs of Spring on March 7 and 8; Naturalist’s Choice on March 14 and 15; Osprey Nests on March 21 and 22; and Return of the Osprey on March 28 and 29.
Year of the Horse
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, Atlantic City
Throughout February
The Borgata will celebrate the Asian community through celebrations, decor and authentic dining. On February 21, the Lunar New Year celebration will feature lion dancers, live Chinese singers and giveaways. Throughout the property, look for hand-painted Koi fish, larger-than-life cherry blossom trees in the Porte Cochere, giant lanterns at the entrance of the casino floor, and large-scale red envelopes and gold coins in the retail piazza. The new pan-Asian restaurant, Noodles, serves house-made noodles, BBQ, seafood, dim sum and vegetable dishes. There is also a new Asian Gaming space on the casino floor.
A Century of Black History Commemorations
Maplewood
Throught February
The 2026 theme marks 100 years since the first national celebration of Black History Month. Events include art exhibitions, a historical interpretation of General George Washington’s enslaved person Hannah Till, film screenings and family movie nights, concerts, book signings, a vegan soul food cooking class, a discussion on the movie “Sinners,” a conversation about the African diaspora, and a history showcase at the YMCA.
Valentine’s Markets
Bell Works, Holmdel
February 1, 7, 11 and 14
Come shop for the perfect gift for your valentine – everything from food products and baked goods to clothing and accessories to candles and skincare to home goods and specialty items. There will be hands-on experiences, workshops, demos, tastings and readings. Note: The February 7 market will be held by Asbury Fresh at a mystery location, TBA.
Family Fitness Fun Series
Wyckoff Family YMCA, Wyckoff
February 1: Family Line Dancing
February 8: Super Bowl Family Zumba
Register everyone in the fam so you get your endorphins going together.
Winery Weekend Music Series
Terhune Orchards, Princeton
Weekends, February 1 – March 14
Listen to live music in the afternoon, and either have a glass of wine inside the wine barn, or bring the kids to make s’mores by the firepits.
New Jersey Film Festival
Rutgers University, New Brunswick; with virtual options
Fridays – Sundays, through February 22
Almost 50 films will have their area screenings as part of the New Jersey Film Festival or the United States Super 8 Film and Video Festival. There will be many in-person guest appearances by film directors, producers and actors. Two free filmmaking workshops will be open to anyone.
Behind the Scenes at The Giraffe Barn
Essex County Turtle Back Zoo, South Orange
Select Saturdays, through February 28
You’ll take a tour, meet the keepers, and learn about conservation efforts.
The Rink at Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center, NYC
Through March
Ice skate or chill in a rinkside chalet while looking at the magnificent tree, which stays lit through mid-January.
Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park
Bryant Park, New York City
Through March
This Manhattan park is home to the largest free-admission ice skating rink in NYC. Relax rinkside at The Lodge while taking in the splendor of the giant Christmas tree. Shop more than 180 vendors selling gifts from around the world. And check out the bumper cars on ice.
Maple Sugaring Season
The New Weis Center for Education, Arts & Recreation, Ringwood
Through March
Kick off maple sugaring season on January 28, when Tree Tapping & Foraged Tea gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how senior staff members drill the holes, set the spiles, and hang the buckets in preparation for the maple sugar programs on weekends in February and March.
Outdoor Winter Wonderland
Middletown Sports Camp, Middletown
Through March 8
This will be the place to skate, sip and shop during the holiday season, with its new winter festival that includes festive music, lights and décor; vendors; fire pits; igloos; and the center of it all, the outdoor ice skating rink.
Lunar New Year at American Dream
American Dream, East Rutherford
Through March 8
Celebratory events include a youth talent competition, K-Pop dance competition, concerts, fashion shows, a spring festival gala, a Lunar New Year spectacular, the lighting of the Dream Wheel, a photography contest, opera night, and a Sunflower Lantern Festival Gala.
Winter at Dilworth Park
Dilworth Park, Philadelphia, PA
Select dates, through March 14
The heart of Center City comes alive with outdoor ice skating, a topiary garden, the Wintergarden, a chalet-style cabin and charming fire pits.
Sap to Syrup (Maple Sugaring)
Tenafly Nature Center, Tenafly
Sundays, through March 15
Learn about how sap becomes syrup, and which local trees can be tapped for their own unique flavors. You’ll stay outside to identify trees, learn how sap flows, and practice using real tapping tools.
Art Attack
Shimon and Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community Center, Bridgewater
Fridays, through March 20
Kids ages 2 to 5 will use clay, paint, papier-mache, pastels and watercolors to express themselves without words, using creativity and emotions.
Springsteen in Long Branch: An exhibition telling the story of Born to Run
Long Branch Arts & Cultural Center, Long Branch
Ongoing through 2026
Fifty years ago, Bruce Springsteen wrote the “Born to Run” album in West End, Long Branch. A new exhibit showcases his life at the Jersey Shore through photos, posters, album promo materials and mementos – like his green drum set from his first band, and a replica of the guitar used on the album cover.
SUE The T. Rex Experience
Liberty Science Center, Jersey City
Through May 25, 2026
The world’s most complete, most well-preserved T. rex skeleton is making a stop at LSC so you can see her bones, hear her growl and smell her breath (seriously!). There will be fossils on display, projection mapping of other prehistoric creatures, and a life-sized fleshed-out replica to show what the creature’s life was like in the Cretaceous era.
Editor’s Note: Always check times, dates and weather updates before heading out.
Got questions about this weekend’s events?
We pulled together a quick FAQ to help.
Q: Do I need tickets or reservations?
A: Some of the bigger attractions (musicals, outdoor light shows, Santa trains) do require tickets, and popular times can sell out. It’s important to check the event link in our guide for details, times, date, pricing, availability and weather before you head out.
Q: Does the list include both indoor and outdoor events?
A: You’ll find a mix of indoor shows, markets, and museums, along with outdoor winter light displays and festivals.
Q: What are some of the best things to do in New Jersey this weekend (January 30 – February 1, 2026)?
A: This weekend (January 30 – February 1, 2026) features family-friendly things to do across New Jersey and in NY and PA. Highlights include Wassailing the Apple Trees at Terhune Orchards in Princeton, Curious George: The Golden Meatball on stage at BergenPAC in Englewood, and a KPop Demon Hunters sing-along in Maplewood.
Q: What parts of New Jersey do these events cover?
A: We include family events happening throughout North, Central, and South Jersey, plus more events in New York and Pennsylvania.
Q: Where can I find more events near me?
A: This weekend’s roundup is a comprehensive list, but you can also browse more upcoming events on our calendar.
Q: How can I stay updated on more things to do in New Jersey?
A: Sign up for our newsletter and follow us on Facebook and Instagram!
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