When looking at our calendar of events for this weekend, I came across a very pleasant trend–free admission! It seemed too good not to share, so here you have it: 10 of this weekend's events with no admission fee (food, rides, games, etc. at these events may not be free). So go ahead and explore; you've got nothing [monetary] to lose!
May 18
Art Museum Day
Zimmerli Art Museum in New Brunswick, NJThe Zimmerli Art Museum at Rutgers University will offer free admission as part of the Association of Art Museum Directors’ (AAMD) Art Museum Day, coinciding with International Museum Day. The day at the Zimmerli also features a special scavenger hunt for children.
May 16-19
Our Lady of Peace Country Fair
Our Lady of Peace School and Church in New Providence, NJ
This carnival includes rides and games for children and adults. A gaming party truck allows up to 20 of your friends to compete against each other. There will also be raffles, crafts, food, a kiddie tent, and more.
May 19
Family Day: A Journey Through Time
Princeton University Art Museum in Princeton, NJGear up for a day of travel and adventure as you explore art through the ages and from around the world. Family Day offers hands on activities, live performances, storytelling, and a scavenger hunt. Pizza and refreshments will be served.
Essex County Family Garden Party
Presby Memorial Gardens in Upper Montclair, NJWalk through the garden, blooming with more than 100,000 iris flowers. While you're there, take in the live music, kids crafts, student art exhibits, garden demonstrations, and more. Bring a picnic or visit one of the local food vendors. Rain date: May 20.
The Great Swamp Scavenger Hunt
Loantaka Brook Reservation in Morristown, NJAt the Kitchell Pond Pavilion, pick up a set of clues designed to take you on a journey of discovery through the region. Along the way, you will choose where you want to go and what questions you will answer to prove that you've been there. Scavenge as much or as little as you want throughout the day. Return to Loantaka Brook Reservation at 4 pm for refreshments, prizes, and surprises.
May 20
Family Day: Draw On
Montclair Art Museum in Montclair, NJEnhance your drawing skills as families are invited to participate in art projects, demonstrations, and workshops. Investigate still-life and drawing from a model, performances, and gallery activities. Try new drawing mediums and techniques and explore the galleries.
Be Our Guest
Various locations in Morris County, NJTen historic sites and museums throughout Morris County are inviting the public to "Be [Their] Guest" in celebration of National Tourism Week. Participating institutions will open their doors and waive their usual admission fees during those hours, although guests are encouraged to contribute a non-perishable food item in lieu of the normal admission fee.
11th Annual Baby Parade (shown)
Sinatra Park in Hoboken, NJHoboken's babies venture out in their finest attire, toddlers flaunt their cutest costumes, and parents create mini-floats balanced atop carriages and wagons. Trophies are awarded for Best Dressed Child, Most Creative Carriage, and Best Dressed Family. Registration begins at 12 pm. Rain date: May 27.
12th Annual Cruise-N-Show Car Show
Main Street in Chester, NJChester's streets will be lined with classics, customs, muscle, special interest, antiques, pro street cars, and more. Entertainment includes music by DJ Doc South and free rides for kids on NJ’s famous monster truck–Webslinger–from 2-4 pm. While you're there, help the HCBA fill a vintage VW to the roof with non-perishable grocery items for the Chester Food Panty, to benefit people and pets in need.
Maplewood MayFest
Springfield Avenue in Maplewood, NJCelebrating its 11th anniversary, Maplewood MayFest offers visitors rides, games, a petting zoo, pony rides, live music, food, a classic car show, and more than 100 participating vendors. Rain date: May 27.