Mamma Mia, Special Events in NJ Just for Mom

Don’t let Mother’s Day come and go without treating yourself! We’ve done the prep work in finding 19 great events that will fit the bill for whatever kind of day you’re hoping to have. Whether you want to celebrate with your family, or you’d prefer to have the kids entertained so you can have some extra “me time,” New Jersey Family’s got you covered.

Berkeley Heights YMCA

At the 11th annual Mother’s Day 5K, run or walk in honor of  loved ones. Race proceeds will benefit LIVESTRONG at the YMCA—the Y’s new cancer survivorship and recovery program.

The Garden State Discovery Museum

A teddy bear-themed picnic is led by Rosie Hymerling, a mother and new grandmother herself! She’ll have songs, stories, and snacks for mother and child to share.

Great Swamp

Moms and their families go on a guided nature walk and learn some facts about Mother Nature.

Grounds for Sculpture

Rat’s Restaurant and The Peacock Café are offering moms an elegant brunch menu fit for a queen! After, stroll the magnificent sculpture park.

Jenkinson’s Aquarium

Spend the day at the aquarium. All moms are free with a paid child admission.

Kidville

Moms, get some extra shuteye and let dad take the kids (ages newborn-6 years) for gym and crafting fun. Each child can make a special gift/craft to take home to mom.  

Lord Stirling Stable

Non-equestrian family members can join a special Mother’s Day trail ride.

Macculloch Hall Historical Museum

Treat yourself to a special afternoon this Mother’s Day. Moms and their families can enjoy a tour of the museum, a visit to the current exhibits, and a garden tour. There will also be craft activities and a scavenger hunt for children, inspired by the museum’s current Civil War exhibit.

The New Jersey Children’s Museum

Mother's Day Weekend: the museum is full of activities that show moms how special they are.

Palisades Interstate Park

Join a two-hour, four-mile, easy, guided hike to The Women’s Federation Monument, part of the NJ Women’s Heritage Trail.

Ridgefield Nature Center

This two-hour bird walk includes a trip to see Monk Parakeets on Railroad Ave., and ends at Skeetkill Creek Marsh on Pleasantview Terrace. Meet at the Ridgefield Nature Center, Shaler Blvd. gate.

The State Theatre

Celebrate Mother’s Day with a concert from R&B singer-songwriter Brian McKnight. This intimate, solo-acoustic performance features McKnight on guitar and piano.

Tenafly Nature Center

Celebrate Mother’s Day with a two-hour guided hike. All ages welcome (no strollers). In case of inclement weather, the program will be canceled.

Van Vleck House and Gardens

An ensemble from the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra offers a selection of tunes to please the whole family at this Mother’s Day concert. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the grounds. Fair weather only.

WannaBee Chef

Mothers are welcome to participate in this kids’ cooking class in which kids ages 7 and up learn to make chicken salad, smoked salmon, chocolate truffles, and more. After, enjoy the meal and bring home the recipes.

Watchung Stables

Watchung Stables offers two special Mother’s Day guided trail rides in the Watchung Reservation (ages 9 and up to ride).

Weis Ecology Center

Families with elementary school-age kids and older go on a three-mile guided hike. Pack lunch for a picnic at Wyanokie High Point with a view of Norvin Green State Forest.

West Windsor Arts Center

Sunday Sampler Series: Tap Team Two: Hoofing in America: "Hoofing" is a uniquely American creation with roots in Irish clogging, African dance, and early 20th-century street and social dances. At this event, two "hoofing" dancers will showcase Irish, African, hip-hop, and house rhythms. Be prepared to learn a few basic steps and dance in their footsteps. Children and grown-ups will want to get up and dance!

Willowwood Arboretum

Stroll amidst the spring gardens and beautiful lilac collection at the height of its beauty and fragrance. From 1-3 pm, folk, country, and bluegrass musical entertainment is provided by the Stoney River Boys. Light refreshments and self-guided tours will be available. Limited supply of unusual lilacs will be sold.

What would you like to do for Mother's Day this year? Do you like to plan for it or just wing it?