The start of a new school year is here and we’ve rounded up the best free events in September to check out!
September 1
End of Summer Block Party and Music Festival
Fox Park, Wildwood
The festivities include hours of continuous entertainment, games, activities for kids, food, merchandise vendors, live music and more.
Boardwalk Craft Show
Wildwood Convention Center, Wildwood
Artisan-made items, handmade craft items, boutique items, gifts and more will be set up for sale along the boardwalk at Rio Grande Avenue.
Middlesex County’s Annual Labor Day Concert
Roosevelt Park, Edison
This year’s concert will feature The British Invasion Years, a ‘60s musical revolution, spanning the entire first wave of the British Invasion Era.
Labor Day Parade
American Labor Museum, Haledon
This year’s Grand Marshals are Susan Butterfield, president, Passaic County Education Associations; Brian Jackson, business manager/financial secretary/treasurer, United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers and Allied Workers,Local 10 and president, Passaic County Building & Construction Trades Council; and Thomas Kelly, business agent, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 827, and president, Passaic County Central Trades and Labor Council, AFL-CIO, and 2nd Vice President and Trustee, American Labor Museum.
Frenchtown’s Riverfest
Sunbeam Lenape Park and Bridge Street, Frenchtown
For the past 20 years, this festival is traditionally held on Labor Day Weekend to celebrate life along the river. Stroll Bridge Street and Sunbeam Park for a fun-filled day of live music, art, food, family-friendly activities, and paper boat races with the Frenchtown Vikings, all with an ecologically- and sustainability-focused lens. There will be 70+ local vendors, 20+ local musicians and six food vendors.
September 1 – November 3
Peddler’s Village Scarecrow Season
Peddler’s Village, Lahaska, PA
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.
September 2
Labor Day Street Fair
Riverdale
This year’s annual Labor Day party will also celebrate the town’s centennial. There will be exhibitors selling a selection of assorted items, a special arts & crafts section, live entertainment, kiddie rides and games, great festival foods and food trucks, and so much more. See the shows with live music, dancing, karate demonstrations, and more. Come hungry and eat carnival food favorites, plus order from the food trucks. The Kidz Traveling Shindig is a section in the school parking lot area dedicated to children with kiddie bounce rides, slides, and interactive blow-ups, face painters, sand art and kids’ games.
Labor Day Fireworks
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, Pt. Pleasant
Finish out summer at Jenkinson’s at dark with the family. Bring a lawn chair or beach blanket and watch the sky light up above the ocean.
South Plainfield Labor Day Parade and Festivities
Veterans Park, South Plainfield
This claims to be the oldest and largest Labor Day parade in New Jersey. The 65th annual theme is Once Upon a Parade. Kick off the day – literally – with the 5K race at 9:30 am. The parade starts at the PAL Building on Maple Avenue at 10 am, and ends at South Plainfield Middle School. From 11 am to 4 pm, there will be vendors, food, a beer tent, music by DJ Troy and more entertainment at Veterans Park. At night, head to Spring Lake Park for music at 7 pm followed by an 8:30 pm fireworks show.
Mendham Labor Day Parade and Carnival
East Main Street and Mountain Avenue, Mendham
There will be tons of rides, games and carnival food, perfect for ending the summer in the best way possible. Stop by Friday, Saturday or Sunday evening for the carnival. On Labor Day, the Mendham Labor Day Parade marches up Main Street ending at Borough Field.
September 3 – 13
Special Needs Art Exhibit: We The People
Perkins Center for the Arts, Moorestown
Perkins Center partnered with the Y.A.L.E. School on an artwork exhibit by local students with special needs. The show, We the People, focuses on contemporary Americana through the eyes of artists ages 7 to 20. The pop-up experience includes playful mixed media artworks paying homage to our nation and state.
September 5
Marcus Samuelsson & Priya Krishna Collab Demo
Marcus Live! Bar & Grille, American Dream, East Rutherford
Chef Marcus will appear at his namesake restaurant with Chef Priya, who recently wrote a kid-friendly cookbook, “Priya’s Kitchen Adventures.” They’ll prepare elotes for the crowd, and then it will be on the menu at the restaurant all week.
September 6
NY Giants Fan Fest
MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford
Celebrate 100 seasons of NY Giants football with a ceremony featuring the Top 100 Giants of all time, a drone light and fireworks show, a players panel, autographs, discussions with Giants legends, historic activations around he plaza, photos with the Lombardi Trophies, and free giveaways
First Fridays Series
Monument Square Park, New Brunswick
On the first Friday of the month, indulge in the arts and culture of Middlesex County with free food, live music and performances, games and activities, and arts and crafts.
September 6-7
New Year’s in North Wildwood
Olde New Jersey Avenue, North Wildwood
Friday – Saturday
Over a dozen string bands including the top bands from the 2024 New Year’s Day Parade in Philadelphia will be featured as the Mummers Parade steps off.
September 7
Rutgers University ‘R Community Game’ & A Walk to Believe
SHI Stadium, Rutgers University, Piscataway
Eric LeGrand will lead a parade and tailgate before the big game between Rutgers and Akron.
Ho-Ho-Kus Day
Downtown Ho-Ho-Kus
Celebrate everything you love about this Bergen County town, which includes rides, games, food and family activities.
Salsa at Grundy Park
J. Owen Grundy Park, Hudson River Waterfront Walkway, Jersey City
The free community event features live music, salsa dance lessons, and health-related resources during the wellness expo.
San Gennaro Festival
Main Street, Belmar
A full day of Italian culture begins with a 10 am Mass of San Gennaro (presented in Italian) at St. Rose Catholic Church. Follow the procession of the statue down the street, leading to a street fair with lots of food, a book signing by Produce Pete, a dog costume contest and a cannoli eating contest.
The Wildwoods Food & Music Festival
Byrne Plaza, Downtown Wildwood
Formerly known as Wildwoods Seafood and Music Festival, the street fair has a range of food options, music, shopping, vendors and more.
Victorian Day
Belividere
Aside from a ticked tea garden party, there will be a fashion show with designs from the 19th and 20th centuries, a vendor and antique market, car show, en plein air art competition, exhibits and entertainment.
Boardwalk Classic Car and Street Rod Show
Boardwalk, Ocean City
The 49th annual car show displays Fords, Chevys, Pontiacs, and Mopars all older than 1994.
Back to School
Howell Living History Farm, Hopewell Twp.
Kids 5 and up will attend class in the one-room school to “learn their ABCs” as the Pleasant Valley children once did. The unique history lesson includes doing before- and after-school farm chores, playing games during recess, and learning arithmetic, English, and social studies. Meet Larry Kidder, author of an award-winning book about the school itself.
Insect Festival
Mercer Educational Gardens, Hopewell Twp.
Spend the day learning about bugs, bees, butterflies, composting and carnivorous plants. There will be bugs in water, an insect hunt, build-a-bug and storytime. Speak with the Master Gardeners about your gardening needs.
Fort Lee Artisan Market
Hudson Lights Park, Fort Lee
There will be vendors, outdoor games, live music and seasonal surprises.
Pet Loss Butterfly Release Memorial Service
Abbey Glen Pet Memorial Park, Lafayette
Take the opportunity to remember your beloved pet companions who have crossed the rainbow bridge by reading the names of deceased pets and releasing monarch butterflies in remembrance.
Ocean County Irish Festival
Manahawkin Lake Park, Stafford Twp.
Show off your Irish heritage through food, craft vendors, a beer garden, live music, pipe bands, Irish step dancing, a super 50/50 raffle, a Basket of Cheer raffle, and kids’ activities.
September 7 – October 31
Mid-Autumn Festivals
American Dream, East Rutherford
Performances range from live bands and pop dances to art exhibitions and fashion shows throughout the series.
September 8
Highland Park Arts in the Park Street Fair
Raritan Avenue, Highland Park
There will be a juried art show and local arts and crafts sale in downtown Highland Park. Walk along the streets for live music, entertainment, food from local restaurants, children’s activities, promotional booths, and more.
Atlantic City Latino Festival
Showboat Resort Event Lot, Atlantic City
Celebrate Hispanic heritage through Latin music, folkloric dance, food, vendors and a resource fair.
Grandparents DayÂ
Casino Pier, Seaside Heights
Grandparents can ride the Ferris Wheel, Sky Ride and Carousel for free when they bring a paying grandchild.
Fridays – Sundays, September 13 – October 13
Morey’s Piers Oktoberfest
Morey’s Piers, Wildwood
Bust out your lederhosen and raise your steins as you enjoy live music, traditional German food, and all the games and rides you love at Morey’s Piers. Bands play on the Coca-Cola stage all weekend long with daily strolling entertainment by the Oompah Delics.
September 14
Linwood Fields Fall Festival
Linwood Fields at Pop’s Farm Market and Garden Center, Monroe Twp.
There will be food trucks and a craft fair, plus hayrides, a bounce house, a kids corn maze, lawn games, kids toys, corn hole, u-pick flowers, and wine from Balic Winery.
Roaring ’20s Jazz Party
East Jersey Old Town Village, Piscataway
Party like it’s the 1920s and dance the Charleston, the defining song and dance of the 1920s created by New Brunswick’s own James P. Johnson. Michael Arenella, his Dreamland Orchestra, and Queen Esther’s sounds will provide the music while The Canarsie Wobblers teach you the dance. Meet suffragettes and learn about the fight for voting rights. Check out the vintage cars, order food from various food trucks, and take plenty of photo ops.
Great Big Italian Festival
Lake Papaianni Park, Edison
Get ready for a giant festa in the park, including lots of Italian food and music.
Haddonfield Car Show
Kings Highway, Haddonfield
The annual Ankokas car show includes a display of classic, contemporary and fun cars.
Shine at Pines Village! Car & Truck Show
Pines Village, Whiting
Jersey Shore Car Shows will host this family-friendly event that focuses on a vintage car competition and live music, plus an open house tour of the campus.
Career Carnival for Kids: STEAM Careers That Create Change
Library of the Chathams, Chatham
Designed to “spark career curiosity” for kids ages 8 to 14, everyone in the family can explore a variety of occupations and the problems that they solve.
NJ Firemen’s Memorial Parade
New Jersey Avenue, Wildwood
High school marching bands, fire company marching bands, drum and bugle corps, fife corps, bell trumpet corps and other types of bands will march down the streets of Wildwood to honor fallen firefighters in a tradition that dates back to 1975.
Plowing & Corn Shocking
Howell Living History Farm, Hopewell Twp.
With more than 120,000 ears to pick, farmers need help filling a horse-drawn wagon with field corn that will be ground into flour and donated to local food banks as part of Howell Farm’s Share the Harvest Program. You’ll also help shell and grind corn for Howell Farm’s animals. Pop into the farmhouse to make a batch of cornbread from freshly-ground cornmeal. Kids can make a cup of dirt dessert.
Rocktoberfest
Taylor Park, Millburn
Now in its eighth year, Rocktoberfest will have an expanded lineup with three stages showcasing diverse musical acts, arts and fitness activities, children’s entertainment, a beer garden, local vendors, and a variety of food options. There will be performances from over 30 bands, including headliner The Gilfords, a premier ’80s rock cover band from NYC; and Rhode Island’s hip-hop/funk/jazz band Toad & the Stooligans. Local acts include Millburn Moksha, The Parkers, Bollywood dancers and teen bands.
Impressions of the Alhambra
Freeman Gardens, Glen Ridge
In 1829, American writer Washington Irving went to Spain. He documented his journey, his stay at the Alhambra, and the legends of that magnificent Moorish palace in Granada. Mosaic Dance Theater Company brings Irving’s book to life through dance, movement and spoken word. This is a preview performance, held outdoors.
Haddon Township Fall Festival Street Fair & Jam Fest
Haddon Twp.
The fall fest takes over blocks of the town, from the Crystal Lake Pool Complex where Jam Fest happens, for five blocks to West Park Boulevard as part of the street fair. Street fair activities include a car show, food trucks, fire trucks, rides, bounce houses, an obstacle course, kids’ entertainment, a wing eating contest, an apple pie baking contest, a dunk tank, live music and dancing, and special character appearances. Jam Fest includes the beer garden, food trucks, ping pong and live entertainment.
Sustainable Health and Wellness Village Festival Tour
Alice Jennings Archibald Park, New Brunswick
Among the family activities are live entertainment featuring local and regional artists, but the main focus is connecting with primary care providers and specialists so you can get free eye exams and eyeglasses, health screenings, vaccinations, fresh produce, and physician-led education and resources on maternal, infant, child, and senior health.
September 14 and 18
Wellmont Arts Plaza Outdoor Concert Series
Wellmont Arts Plaza, Montclair
A series of free, all-ages, outdoor shows will take place, courtesy of Montclair Jazz Festival and Jazz House Kids. Montclair Jazz Festival Downtown Jamboree takes place September 14, followed by Spafford on September 18.
September 14-22
Chinese Mid-Autumn FestivalÂ
Bridgewater Commons, Bridgewater
The Center for Cultural & Creative Exchange presents a free traditional Chinese Folk celebration of light. The kickoff on September 14 includes a traditional live performance of music and dance featuring lion dances, Chinese Yoyo, Tibetan dance and more. The centerpiece will be a display of 15 illuminated handmade Chinese lanterns in various forms, from actual animals to mythical dragons, rising up to 10 feet high throughout the first two levels of the center, illuminating walkways and providing a guide to Chinese culture. There will be a Chinese Lantern Making Workshop on September 14, 15 and 22; additional fees apply.
September 15
Bridgewater Family Fun Day & Touch-a-Truck
Bridgewater Commons, Bridgewater
Kids can climb on and pretend to drive a variety of trucks and vehicles, including the Batmobile, emergency services vehicles, construction trucks, delivery trucks, and more. The event will also include rides, games, crafts, inflatables, music and food trucks. New this year is a Special Needs Resource Fair, featuring businesses and agencies that provide programs and services to individuals with disabilities.
September 19
Hispanic Heritage Month Kick-Off & Fiesta
Downtown Hammonton
In the downtown area, there will be food, music from South and Central American cultures and fashion. Check out food vendors of all kinds of Latin countries and art that reflects the Hispanic scene. On the third Thursday of September, attend downtown’s Fiesta filled with Latin-inspired food, drinks, specials and the final GreenMarket of the season.
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
Kenilworth Public Library, Kenilworth
Join husband-and-wife duo MUSIQUITA for a musical celebration of Hispanic culture.
September 19-21
Wildwood Boardwalk Kustom Hot Rod & Muscle Car Show
Boardwalk and Wildwoods Convention Center, Wildwood
There will be classic cars, hot rods and vintage vehicles inside and out.
September 19-22
St. Peter’s Carnival
St. Peter the Apostle Roman Catholic Church, River Edge
The annual St. Peter’s Carnival returns with rides for all ages, fun games, food, and a 50/50 raffle.
September 20
Fiesta Latina
Village Green, Summit
Summit’s annual Hispanic celebration features a free concert and dance party from Latin and South American bands. Dance demonstrations and lessons are provided for everyone, and food trucks will sell foods from all over Latin America.
Cedar Creek High School’s Annual Community Fall Festival
Cedar Creek High School, Egg Harbor City
Students helped organize an evening of food, music and inflatables for the entire community.
September 20-21
Medford Oktoberfest
Freedom Park, Medford
There will be multiple stages of live music, a massive beer tent, German food, food trucks, local business setups, and a stein-holding competition. On Saturday only, there will be German music by Doppelganger throughout the festival grounds, a charity bratwurst eating contest, a cornhole competition, and kids’ activities. Live music on the Cornerstone PEO stage will be by JEM recording artists The Weeklings, Don’t Call Me Francis, Taylor Kelly, The Tisburys, Foes of Fern, Sug Daniels, Kenny Curcio, and Von Roz. Live music on the Archerlaw stage will be from All Systems Go, The Gender Gnomes, Romaine, Swing That Cat, The DT’s, Mars Counsel, Valendina, Tim W. Smith, The Loan Rangers, and more. Admission is free, but beer and food are by purchase.
Kustom Hot Rod and Muscle Car Show
Wildwood Boardwalk and Wildwoods Convention Center
Classic cars, hot rods and vintage vehicles will line the boardwalk from 26th Street to Spencer Avenue, as well as in front of the Wildwoods Convention Center. You can also check out the cars and vendors inside the convention center, but there is an admission fee.
September 20-22
Bergen County 4-H Fair: Bergen County Fall Harvest Festival
Overpeck County Park, Ridgefield Park
The Fall Harvest Festival features 4-H and Master Gardener displays and hands-on activities, a craft fair, carnival rides, a farmers market, a petting zoo, live music, face painting, food trucks, and more carnival attractions.
Irish Fall Festival
Olde New Jersey Avenue, North Wildwood
Celebrate Irish heritage with dancing, music, food, and craft vendors. Other festivities include a golf tournament, boxing, Irish dance lessons, 5K run and 1 mile walk, pipe exhibition, food court, and Catholic Mass.
September 21
Wildwood Crest Seafarers Celebration
Sunset Lake and Centennial Park, Wildwood Crest
During the day, there is a fun street festival featuring craft and food vendors, children’s entertainment and live music. At night, move to the park for more music and a fireworks show.
Hopewell Harvest Fair
Hopewell Elementary School, Hopewell Twp.
Crafters, farmers and food vendors will be part of the 36th annual Hopewell Harvest Fair. There will be entertainment, fun and games, a Kid’s Corner and contests, plus exhibits in Town Square.
Fall NJ Jeep Invasion
Ocean City Boardwalk, Ocean City
400 Jeeps will be parked and displayed on the Ocean City Boardwalk.
Merchantville Music Fest
Downtown Merchantville
Music Fest 2024 will feature local bands, a DJ, food trucks and an event-wide beer garden.
Annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration
Biertümpfel Park, Union
Learn about Hispanic culture, the achievements of Hispanic individuals, and contributions made by some in the community at this celebration. This free family-friendly event has food vendors from Latin Bites Food Truck, Empanada Lady and more. See cultural performances from Latin musicians and shop at the booths set up by Hispanic-owned business vendors. A beer garden will be available.
Allendale Festival Day
Downtown Allendale
There will be music, vendors, food trucks, and children’s activities.
Latino Festival of Monmouth County
Hall of Records Parking Lot, Freehold Borough
Latin food, music, games and entertainment will be used in celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month.
Festival in the Borough
Downtown Washington Borough
There will be three stages of music with 18 acts, streets lined with vendors, a free children’s fun zone, the Solar Merry Go Round, a free photo booth, a beer garden, food trucks and local shopping.
Incredible Duck Race
Military Row, Kearny
Join the Kearny-Belleville Elks as they race plastic ducks in the water. There will also be live music, food trucks, vendors and a beer garden.
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
Burlington County Amphitheater, Westampton
Created by the Servicios Latinos de Burlington County, this is a one-of-a-kind event allowing families from Hispanic and non-Hispanic backgrounds access to free health screenings. Learn about county and state resources and social service providers and businesses. While you are learning, have fun by dancing to the music performed by live Latin bands and eat Hispanic food for sale at food trucks. Kids can have their faces painted or play on the bounce house.
Happy Birthday Bilbo Baggins!
Cotsen Children’s Gallery at Fireside Library, Princeton University campus, Princeton
You’ve got an invite to a birthday party for your favorite Hobbit. During the party, turn yourself invisible, craft a hobbit door, cultivate a garden, steal a coin from Smaug, embark on a campus quest, say hello to Gandalf, see the artwork of author J.R., Tolkien, and learn about the chemistry of fireworks.
Sustainable Health and Wellness Village Festival Tour
Branch Brook Park, Newark
Among the family activities are live entertainment featuring local and regional artists, but the main focus is connecting with primary care providers and specialists so you can get free eye exams and eyeglasses, health screenings, vaccinations, fresh produce, and physician-led education and resources on maternal, infant, child, and senior health.
Kean University Jazz & Roots Music Festival
The Lawn at Enlow Hall, Kean University, Hillside
Listen to performances by musicians who specialize in jazz, blues, reggae, fusion and more, including Third World, Stefon Harris & Blackout, Solomon Hicks, and Prince Hakim.
Italian Festival
Historic Smithville, Galloway
Grab some Italian food and sit by any of the three entertainment stages for Italian jazz, a Sinatra/Bennett/Prima tribute show, dance, and the Atlantic City All Star Band. There will be more than a dozen food trucks and dozens of vendors. Opt for a wine tasting or visit to the beer truck. Activities for kids include face painting, sand art and a wheel of chance. Other activities include free bocce ball and a raffle.
Horse & Carriage Day
Howell Living History Farm, Hopewell Twp.
While visiting the farm, make sure you take a carriage ride around the open field of the farm.
Festival of the Sea
Beach Area, Point Pleasant
More than 200 crafters and vendors will line the streets, along with live games, music, family activities and a beer and wine garden.
September 21-22
Rose Squared Art Show
Anderson Park, Montclair
This event showcases more than 90 fine art and fine craft vendors with works in apothecary, artisanal foods, ceramics, jewelry, wood, digital art, decorative and wearable fiber, furniture, glass, painting, 2D/3D mixed media and photography.
Teachers in the Trees
TreEscape Aerial Adventure Park, Vernon Twp.
This weekend, educators can climb and zipline for free. Top attractions include the Aerial Obstacle Course and Black Creek Flyer. Teachers must email info@treescapeadventurepark.com to make a reservation, and provide valid school ID at the time of redemption.
September 22
Westfield FestiFall
Downtown Westfield
Central Avenue will become a marketplace of crafters, retailers, food truck and a beer garden. The event will also include a kids zone with rides and inflatables.
Central Jersey Family Fall Fest
MarketFair, Princeton
There will be live music, arts and crafts, character appearances, bounce houses, games and more – all for free. Food is available for purchase.
Twilight Equinox Walk
Hunterdon County Arboretum, Lebanon
Join a twilight hike to observe the shift from summer to autumn and from daylight to nightfall.
Antique Glass & Bottle Show
Historic Batsto Village, Hammonton
Spend the day outdoors browsing the items presented for sale by dozens of dealers. Wagon rides will be available, for a fee, through historic Batsto Village. Tours will be available through the mansion. A few of the craftsmen will be present in the carpenter and blacksmith shops.
Clover Market
735 N. Atlantic Ave., Collingswood
The award-winning, outdoor pop-up will feature 100 carefully curated vendors offering a selection of handmade and vintage goods. The market will also include a large lineup of food trucks, live music, and crafts and face painting for kids.
September 24
Community Square Dance
Ironia Elementary School, Randolph
Square dancing is New Jersey’s official dance. During this free lesson, learn the basic steps such as the do si do and promenade.
September 25-29
Middlesex County Jazz Festival
Wednesday: Edison
Thursday: Carteret
Saturday: New Brunswick and Edison
Sunday: Woodbridge
Each town has its own lineup of school performers, local artists and regional bands. Metuchen will pay special tribute to Russell Malone, who was set to take the stage but passed away in August while on tour.
September 26
Express Yourself: A Youth Mental Health & Wellness Experience
Sussex County YMCA, Hardyston
Youth ages 11-17 will be treated to entertainment, dinner and an ice cream sundae bar; receive a gift bag filled with wellness and self-care items and a gift card; and have the opportunity to participate in fun activities throughout the evening. Joined by John Franklin from The Circle on Netflix, teens will be able to hear their comedy style that focuses on mental health, their careers and how they deal with the stressors of being in the public eye.
South Orange Downtown Fashion Show
Spiotta Park, South Orange
Have a “fabulous” time watching models from JESPY House showcasing the latest trends from Sadie’s and Artistry by Ampy Salon. Three Daughters Baking Co. & Miti Miti will have free snacks. There will be a cash bar that will benefit JESPY House.
September 27
Free Fridays
Intrepid Museum, New York, NY
The museum will be open late until 9 pm, with free admission starting at 5 pm, so you can see all the astronomy-themed programs and exhibits the museum has to offer.
Nature Game Night
Plainsboro Preserve, Cranbury
Inside the nature center, you’ll be able to choose from a selection of nature-inspired puzzles and games, or bring a puzzle or game from home to play and share with others.
September 27-28
Olde Time Italian Festival
Fox Park, Wildwood
Celebrate Italian culture, food, and heritage. Experience an “Olde World” family festival, including a Procession of the Saints, Italian food, merchandise vendors, games, and continuous free live entertainment.
Monsters on the Beach
Wildwood Crest
Friday – Saturday
On Friday, eight Renegade Monster Trucks will be on display (for free) before they fire up and parade through Wildwood Crest. There are two shows on Saturday where you can see the trucks up close, meet the drivers and watch the battles along the obstacle course – but the shows have ticket prices.
September 28
Wheat Planting, Wheat Weaving, Threshing & Baking
Howell Living History Farm, Hopewell Twp.
When last fall’s wheat crop is ready to harvest, farmers will need help in the field to follow behind the horses and gather wheat. In the barnyard there will be a wheat weaving demonstration.
Edison’s Fall Family Spectacular Street Fair
Clara Barton section of Edison
There are eight blocks of kiddie rides, games, face painting, sand art, a pro wrestling ring, a remote-controlled car track, crafts, shopping, two stages of live music, food trucks and the Kids Traveling Shindig.
Community Day: Fiesta Latina
The Newark Museum of Art, Newark
You’ll get a sampling of Mexican, Ecuadorian, Puerto Rican and other music, plus a variety of other activities at the museum that showcase the vibrant cultures of Latin America and the Caribbean.
La Fiesta Hispana
Byrne Plaza, Wildwood
The second annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration gives you a chance to experience different cultures through live entertainment by DJ Chino, a live band, a student showcase, Hispanic foods and desserts made by chefs from local restaurants, Latinx crafts, and specialty items.
Woodstown Fall Festival Train Rides
Woodstown Central Railroad / Downtown Woodstown
Walk down to Wilson Avenue, or hop aboard a restored 1930s passenger train. The festival will have craft vendors showcasing unique handmade goods, live music, and a variety of food options.
Newark PorchFest
Ballantine Gates, Newark
The historic Forest Hill neighborhood will be filled with music, as amateur and professional musicians use porches throughout the community to play their set. A one-hour KidsFest takes place before the main PorchFest.
September 28-29
Asbury Park Fall Bazaar 2024
Grand Arcade at Convention Hall and The Asbury Hotel, Asbury Park
There will be a curated market featuring artisans from the Jersey Shore, a fall photo wall, permanent jewelry, face painting, food and drinks, a Sip & Paint for glass coffee cups, live music and a DJ, photography, vinyl record shopping and a flower bar.
Hopewell Tour Des Art
Hopewell Borough
As you take a self-guided tour you will meet 60+ artists in their studios and group locations.
Impressions of the Alhambra
First Congregational Church of Montclair, Montclair
In 1829, American writer Washington Irving went to Spain. He documented his journey, his stay at the Alhambra, and the legends of that magnificent Moorish palace in Granada. Mosaic Dance Theater Company brings Irving’s book to life through dance, movement and spoken word.
September 29
South Orange Downtown Fall Festival
Spiotta Park, South Orange
Free fall crafts include pumpkin decorating and glam braids; there will also be games, music by DJ Lou Smith, storytimes at the library, and creative stations.
Walnut Street Fair
Walnut Street, Montclair
The street will be filled with nearly 300 vendors and displays, live music, food trucks, a beer garden, and a family fun zone with Touch-A-Truck and more. This event is family- and dog-friendly. Erie Park will feature a large family-fun zone with tons of kid-friendly activities and entertainment.
Kids’ Hike For Fun
Wescott Preserve, Stockton
Kids will explore and wander through the woods, embracing the wonders of the season.
Fall Festival
St. Bernard’s Episcopal Church, Bernardsville
Celebrate a year of affiliation between the Church of St. John on the Mountain and St. Bernard’s Episcopal Church, both Episcopal parishes in Bernardsville. There will be fall foods and ice cream, a fall photo station, musical performances, games, arts and crafts, and outreach opportunities.
Fall Kids Concert
Manalapan Community Center, Manalapan
The Little Rockers will put on a free, indoor concert for kids. Stay until the end of the show for a special appearance by a surprise character.
The Bergen All Star Jazz Blast
Wortendyke Barn Museum, Park Ridge
Bring blankets, chairs and food for the third concert in the free outdoor music series.
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