It’s Father’s Day weekend, and there are lots of fun ways to spend it with the Dads in your life and top-tier places to eat, too. Monday is Juneteenth, so mark the holiday with a special festival or ceremony.
WEEKEND
Barefoot Country Music Festival
Wildwood Beach, Wildwood
Thursday – Saturday
Major headliners at this popular country fest include Blake Shelton, Kid Rock and Darius Rucker. There will be more than 40 artists performing!
Morristown Juneteenth Weekend
Morristown
Thursday – Saturday
On Thursday, head to the Art in the Atrium Public Reception of Black Art in the Sun. Friday will be the Morris Museum’s Juneteenth Party Celebration. And Saturday is Sankofa’s Juneteenth Festival of Morris County.
Restaurant Week
The Wildwoods
Thursday
A select group of restaurants will offer a complete four-course meal including appetizer, salad, entrée and dessert for $40 per person, plus tax and tip.
St. Charles Borromeo Carnival
St. Charles, Cinnaminson
Thursday – Saturday
Have a blast playing games, winning prizes, riding rides and eating food while celebrating this year’s theme, “Take Me Out to the Carnival!”
Morris County Tri-County Fair
Christ Church, Rockaway
Thursday – Saturday
Carnival attractions, rides, games, live music, fireworks and more will be spread across 107 acres. There will be heart-pounding rides such as the Polar Express and the Sky Hawk, classic rides like the Ferris Wheel, kiddie rides, games of chance and monster truck rides. There will also be pony rides, fair foods, family-friendly music, a fireworks show, an old-time car show complete with ’50s music, the Extreme Illusions and Escapes of Josh Knotts. If you bring your superhero dad on Father’s Day he can take a picture with the Batmobile!
Warren Lions Club Expo Carnival
Warren Township Municipal Grounds, Warren Twp.
Days of games, rides, food and entertainment are capped off with a fireworks display at night.
Mermaids
Adventure Aquarium, Camden
Thursday – Sunday
This special exhibit inside the aquarium lets you get up close and personal with mermaids under the water and above the surface. You’ll watch them dive in the shark tank, too.
World War II Exhibit
Museum of American History at Deptford, Deptford
Thursday – Sunday
Kids and adults who are interested in history will learn about the lives and memories of veterans and fallen heroes from World War II through this exhibit. There will be military and civilian paraphernalia including weapons, equipment, uniforms, flags, and coinage of both the Allied and Axis powers in the Pacific as well as the European theatres.
Tri-County Fair
Christ Church, Rockaway
Come out for heart-pounding rides such as the Polar Express or the Sky Hawk, classic rides like the Ferris Wheel, kiddie rides, games of chance, monster truck rides, pony rides, fun fair foods and much more. There will be family-friendly music, a fireworks show, an old-time car show complete with ’50s music, monster truck rides, and the Extreme Illusions and Escapes of Josh Knotts.
Jazz in June
McCarter Theatre, Princeton
Friday – Saturday
The series kicks off with Samara Joy, the 2023 Grammy Award winner for Best New Artist. Oran Etkin presents a Timbalooloo family event recommended for kids ages 2-8. There will be jazz music, a saxophonist and an 18-member ensemble on different nights.
Metro Gathering MEGA Event
East Jersey Old Town, Piscataway
Friday – Saturday
On Saturday, Northern New Jersey Cachers will present a showcase of New Jersey’s heritage with “Greetings from New Jersey: A Postcard Journey of the Garden State.” The state has many national and state parks, historical sites, resorts, museums, harbor towns, entertainment spots like the Jersey Shore and Atlantic City that will be presented via postcards. The Pre Mega Community Celebration at The Low House is Friday night; bring potluck food and drinks to share, plus a table and chair.
Black Excellence Festival
Showboat Atlantic City
Friday – Sunday
Celebrate Black culture through music, films, comedy, praise, inspirational speeches, dancing and more.
Asbury Tattoo Festival
Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel, Asbury Park
Friday – Sunday
Come watch as more than 150 tattoo artists from around the world tattoo live. For more entertainment, there will be burlesque shows, magic shows, DJ sets and a contest for Mr. and Mrs. Asbury.
Kymer’s Camping Resort Opening Weekend
Kymer’s Camping Resort Branchville
Friday – Sunday
Plan a Father’s Day weekend mini vacay to 200 scenic acres in the Kittatinny Mountains. Whether you hike the Appalachian Trail, kayak on the lake or simply relax by the Olympic-size swimming pool, there is something for everyone to enjoy. If you don’t have your own camping gear, Kymer’s offers park models, cabins or new luxury tent rentals.
Monster Truck Show
Miller Farms, Berlin
Friday – Sunday
During the 2-hour show, you’ll watch monster trucks perform daring and dangerous stunts and quad racing. During intermission you’ll have the opportunity to ride in a real monster truck! Two hours before showtime you can attend the Pit-Party, which features a meet-and-greet with the drivers, photo-ops, food trucks, a Kid Zone and more.
Sports Card & Collectibles Show
Moorestown Mall, Moorestown
Friday – Sunday
Teach the kids about sports history as you browse through collections of collectibles, novelties, autographed memorabilia, sports card releases and apparel.
Community Block Party Weekend
Philadelphia Museum of Art, Philadelphia, PA
Thursday – Monday
Celebrate the diverse communities of Philadelphia. There will be live performances during Friday Night Lounge, a rouing Saturday Night House Party, a Sunday Block Party on the East Terrace at the top of the “Rocky Steps,” a special Art Kids family program, guided tours highlighting the architecture of the museum, and a special dedication ceremony at nearby Mount Pleasant on Monday in honor of Juneteenth.
Raritan Native American Heritage Celebration & Pow Wow
Middlesex County Fairgrounds, East Brunswick
Saturday – Sunday
Introduce your kids to Native American culture. There will be a full contest Pow Wow attracting more than 500 Native American artists, educators, singers, dancers and performing groups from across the Americas. There will be over 40 artist booths selling crafts, jewelry, food, authentic cuisine and more. You can interact with representatives from tribes of the Lakota, Navajo, Mohawk, Seneca, Cherokee, Aztec, Mayan, Samoan, Hawaiian and many more.
Asbury Park Bazaar
Convention Hall, Asbury Park
Saturday – Sunday
Celebrate Father’s Day Weekend at the Asbury Park Bazaar North 2 Shore Festival Pop Up featuring makers, music and art. North To Shore Music & Arts Festival will bring together multiple venues and events across Asbury Park including concerts, comedians, movies, entertainment, surprise guests, special pop ups, and more from June 14-18. Asbury Park Bazaar will feature shopping, food and drinks, face painting for kids and vendors.
Battle of Monmouth
Monmouth Battlefield State Park, Manalapan
Saturday – Sunday
Watch history come to life! Revolutionary War re-enactors will commemorate the anniversary of the battle. Visit their encampments, pass pacing sentries and see enlisted men cleaning their weapons or idling away their time gambling. Watch the women of the army cook, mend and launder. At the parade ground, see soldiers drill or artillerists fire their cannon. During the battle, hills will reverberate with cannon and musket fire as columns of troops maneuver, form line and charge.
Freshwater Fishing Derby
Manasquan Reservoir in Howell on Saturday
Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold on Sunday
Sign up for a hands-on fishing clinic, then put your skills to the test as you cast your line in the lake. It’s a great time to catch some fish whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler. Prizes will be awarded.
Father’s Day Winery Weekend
Terhune Orchards, Princeton
Saturday – Sunday
The whole family can celebrate Dad at the orchards, though only dads and moms can sample wine. Kids can visit the animals in the barnyard and play on the tractors. There will be music plus light fare. Take a walk on the farm trail and visit the farm store.
Burlington Freedom Day
Burlington Riverfront Promenade, Burlington
Saturday – Sunday
The kickoff event on Saturday will be filled with music, food, vendors and a Kid’s Zone that includes free lunch as well as free crafts, games and activities for all of the children. “Praise on the Promenade: A Gospel Music Celebration” will be held on Sunday with performances, special guests, food and music.
Berries and Brews Strawberry Festival
Ort Farms, Long Valley
Saturday – Sunday
Jersey Girl Brewing will present the farm’s “season finale” event with strawberry picking, weekend activities, local craft vendors, live music, Jersey Girl Brewery on tap and food trucks. Tickets include access to the PYO patch, vendor fair and festival.
Juneteenth Freedom Day
Perkins Center for the Arts, Moorestown
This special family day features inspirational music, African dance and drumming, food, educational presentations, and offerings from some local Black-owned businesses.
Camelbeach Opening Weekend
Camelback Resort, Poconos, PA
Saturday – Sunday
Camelbeach Outdoor Waterpark will celebrate its 25th anniversary with scavenger hunts, live entertainment, and the opening of the new Rival Racer waterslide.
Celebrate Dad
Laurita Winery, New Egypt
Saturday – Sunday
There will be a variety of fun ways to treat Dad with the whole family. Saturday will offer free admission for live music and vineyard wagon tours. The cornhole tournament and country line dancing have additional fees. On Sunday, choose between brunch inside; or there will be free admission to The Grove with live music and more.
FRIDAY
Doo Wop Project
Carteret Performing Arts and Events Center, Carteret
The singers here are stars from Broadway hits like Jersey Boys, Motown: The Musical, and A Bronx Tale. Five guys will sing harmonies that were once sung on a street corner, and then the biggest hits on the radio today.
Community Juneteenth Celebration
Count Basie Center for the Arts, Red Bank
A performance by the Count Basie Center Gospel Choir, led by Music Director Gwen Moten and assistant music director Dr. B Dexter Allgood, will showcase Moten’s performance of From Birmingham to Botswana, and more.
Tribute to Benny and Basie
Thompson Park, Lincroft
The 17-piece Sentimental Journey Big Band along with vocalist Altha Morton will salute the “royalty” of swing music and jazz.
Brew at the Zoo
The Bronx Zoo, Bronx, NY
If you’re 21+ you can hang out with your favorite zoo animals after hours while you treat yourself to great food and drinks.
Six Flags Pride Night
Six Flags Great Adventure, Jackson
The celebration inside the theme park will feature guest deejays, live performances, a collection of Six Flags Pride merchandise and fireworks.
Dancing Under the Stars
Hinds Plaza, Princeton (or Princeton Public Library if it rains)
Members of Central Jersey Dance will demonstrate basic steps and lead others in an evening of dancing to recorded music of all kinds.
SATURDAY
New Jersey Beer & Food Festival
Crystal Springs Resort, Hamburg
Adults can sample over 200 craft beer, cider and traditional brews, plus feast on an all-you-can-eat buffet featuring barbecue pulled pork, coal-roasted leg of lamb, beef brisket and slaw, wood-roasted chicken and more. You’ll also enjoy great entertainment including live music, goat races, axe throwing, hot air balloon rides, human foosball, hippity hop races, Dryvebox mobile golf simulator, giant beer pong and more.
Manville Food Truck & Music Bash
Gerber Field, Manville
Choose your lunch from more than a dozen gourmet food trucks. There will be beer for sale. Test your luck with the 50/50 raffle. Everyone can listen to live music. Activities for the young ones include pony rides, a petting zoo, face painting, bungee trampoline, knockerball, a bounce house, sand art and more. This benefits the Manville Youth Athletic League.
Brews and Birdies
Wild Turkey Golf Club, Hamburg
Golfers can tee off for 18 rounds of golf, including continental breakfast, lunch, beer sampling at each round, and VIP admission to the NJ Beer & Food Festival.
Frank Thomas Memorial Fluke Tournament
Bakers Marina on the Bay, Highlands
The third annual tournament is a Father’s Day tradition. You can fish by land, kayak or boat. You’ll get swag, a BBQ cookout and a fish weigh-in.
Skimmer Festival
JFK Boulevard & Promenade, Sea Isle City
This seaside vendor craft market along the oceanfront will include free amusement rides in Excursion Park, food vendors, face painting, a photo booth, Steve Moore & The MIA Band, an art bar, sand art and balloon art.
Spring Classic Car Show
First Avenue Business District, Atlantic Highlands
All different makes, models and classes of cars will be on display. There will be vendors, music, sidewalk sales, trophies, prizes and basket raffles.
Open Cockpit Day
New Jersey Aviation Hall of Fame, Teterboro
You’ll have the opportunity to sit in the cockpit of a very rare Lockheed Bushmaster plane and a U.S. Coast Guard Rescue Helicopter. Sit inside a M*A*S*H Bell 47 helicopter made famous during the Korean War. See the cabin and cockpit of the world’s only surviving Martin 202A Airliner. Also popular with young people is to sit inside the official airport rescue firefighter truck. For young astronauts, there is a working display of the International Space Station (ISS) with uniforms and items used by many astronauts.
Hollywoof
Jersey Shore BlueClaws Stadium, Lakewood
Rescue Ridge will auction off 400 gift baskets in an effort to fundraise for their animal rescue. You get a boxed lunch with the price of your ticket.
Multi-Cultural Festival & Street Fair
Elmwood Park in Elmwood Park
There will be lots of 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 much more.
Sustainably Green Music & Arts Festival
Washington Borough
A full day of music, eco-friendly exhibitioners, artisan vendors, kids’ activities, shopping, dining and more is planned. Green initiatives that will be presented include electronics recycling, a clothing drive, a solar merry-go-round, paper shredding and electric vehicle display and information.
Barrels and Bites Food Truck & Wine Tasting Festival
Atlantic County Fairgrounds, Hamilton
This will be a day of fun, live music, food, craft vendors and wine tasting. Kids can attend the food truck and craft fest (which are both free for everyone), but only adults 21+ can go into the wine tasting building (and need a ticket).
Grand Eid Bazaar
Royal Grand Manor, Edison
Get together and celebrate as Epic Events & Entertainment presents fashion clothing and jewelry, henna, food, raffles, prizes and more.
Promiversary
Sussex County Fairgrounds, Augusta
Lunar Faire is a pop-up night market that celebrates the strange and unusual, the moon, and all the weird things people make and do. Attractions typically include curiosities, fire dancing, a potions lab, fortunes, crystal charging, group spellmaking, medium readings, a witch coven, music, matchmaking, wizardry, stilts and aerials, fairy hair and face painting, ukeleles, magical book exchange, drum circle and more.
Mommy & Me Tea Party Brunch
Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas, Clifton
Treat yourself and your little one to a buffet brunch with specialty tea, sandwiches, treats, kids mocktails. Make your own bouquets.
Leather Pillow Making Workshop
The Eclectic Chic Boutique, Montclair
Make a personalized leather pillow for dad this Father’s Day. You will learn how to cut and sew a leather accent pillow, paint a design on the front of the pillow and personalize it to make it an extra special gift.
Hip Hop Mixtape Live Tour
Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City
The all-star concert will feature DJ Jazzy Jeff, Doug E. Fresh, Melle Mel, Roxanne Shant’e, Kurtis Blow, Cold Crush Brothers, ONYX, Lords of the Underground, Masta Ace, Da Real Monie Love, MR Cheeks, Tuff Crew, Stetsasonic,YoYo Fearless, Chubb Rock, DJ Kool, CL Smooth, MC Chan and more artists.
Darlene Love
Carteret Performing Arts and Events Center, Carteret
Darlene’s Billboard hits include He’s A Rebel, The Boy I’m Gonna Marry, Wait ‘Til My Bobby Gets Home, He’s Sure the Boy I Love and the No. 1 holiday classic Christmas Baby Please Come Home.
Juneteenth Celebration
Neptune to Asbury Park
There will be a flag raising, muscle car procession, celebration and parade which will take place for the holiday, and also as part of the North to Shore Festival.
Father’s Day Fishing Derby
Town Center Lake Gazebo, Robbinsville
Kids and dads of all ages can catch and release fish from the lake as they compete for prizes in different age categories.
People of Pleasant Valley Tours
Howell Living History Farm, Hopewell
On Juneteenth, join historical interpreters on a free wagon ride and tour of the circa-1790 farmhouse where Revolutionary War-era New Jerseyans lived and farmed the land that now makes up Mercer County’s Pleasant Valley National Rural Historic District. You’ll board a wagon to travel down the driveway, across Moore’s Creek, and through the woods before disembarking at the Captain Henry Phillips House. There you will meet historical interpreters who will be wearing period attire for a unique discussion of the history of the house and the people who lived in it before and after the 1804 passage of New Jersey’s Act for the Gradual Abolition of Slavery.
Sankofa’s Juneteenth Festival of Morris County
Morristown Green and Pioneer Plaza, Morristown
Morristown Juneteenth Weekend brings together five non-profit organizations to create a three-day event. Freedom Day: The Juneteenth Festival of Morris County, takes place on June 17. The day includes live performances by The Kofi and Sankofa Drum & Dance Ensemble, local artists, and a tribute to famed abolitionist Frederick Douglass, who made a historic visit to Morristown in 1865. Enjoy DJ sets, food, community resource tables, the Atlantic Health pavilion, and a main stage filled with live entertainment.
Boys Forum
The Offices of Eric Broadway, Ewing
Teens ages 13-18 who live in Mercer County can attend these free workshops and panels by motivational speakers that will address community safety, computer safety and how to communicate with law enforcement officers.
HopSauce Festival
Veterans Memorial Park, Beach Haven
The background music for the hot sauce (20 different flavors) and craft brew (more than 50 varieties) fest will be local bands. It’s a fundraiser for the Jetty Rock Foundation, which works to protect our oceans and waterways.
Manalapan Day
Manalapan Rec Center, Manalapan
The Trammps of “Disco Inferno” fame will headline the evening concert. But don’t wait until nighttime to visit the fields; there will be plenty of music, food and activities all day. Since it’s the 175th anniversary of Manalapan, a time capsule will be opened. There will be trivia games, deejay music, dance and martial arts demos, and then fireworks at night.
Juneteeth Festival of Morris County
Morristown Green, Morristown
This event was created so that all families can celebrate the resilience, solidarity, history and culture of the Black community. The day includes live performances by The Kofi and Sankofa Drum & Dance Ensemble, The Bradford Hays Quartet, Lynette Sheard Live, The Unity Steppers, local artists, a tribute to famed abolitionist Frederick Douglass (who made a historic visit to Morristown in 1865), vendors, community resource tables, DJ sets, food, the Atlantic Health Wellness & Career Pavilion and a main stage filled with live entertainment.
Rock and Roll Playhouse
Wellmont Arts Plaza, Montclair
To celebrate Father’s Day, bring your kids (especially those 10 and younger) to listen to music by Grateful Dead for Kids and Dean & Co. There will also be games, movement, stories and an opportunity to rock out.
Red Bank Classic
Broadwalk, Red Bank
After this 5K race, there will be a vendor pop-up, Fitness Fest and after party at Robinson’s Ale House.
KTUphoria
Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater, Wantagh, NY
103.5 FM KTU Radio presents its annual summer concert. Performing live are Kylie Minogue, Deborah Cox, Taylor Dayne, Daya, Kristine W. and Ally Brooke, with more acts to be announced.
Underground Railroad Walking Tour
Pete Sensei Park, Allentown
Allentown was a stop along the Underground Railroad. Join a local historian for the 90-minute tour that will lead your group past historic homes, shops, cemeteries and landmarks that played a part in helping escaped slaves from the South reach freedom in the North.
Create in the Crest Arts Festival
Centennial Park, Wildwood Crest
For the second year, there will be local artists, entrepreneurs, musicians and other creators displaying, selling and teaching their art. Vendors include handmade arts and crafts, handmade jewelry, pottery, hand-painted floral designs, sea glass art, silk screening, wooden enamel art and more. Free classes will be available in a variety of art forms. The event will also feature live music.
Summer Music Series
Nassau Park Pavilion, Princeton
The first event of the Summer Music Series features Dan Kassel and the Darla Rich Quartet. There will be free art activities for both kids and adults.
The Brooklyn Daily Eagle Tour
Morristown National Historical Park, Morristown
Keith Muchowski is a librarian and professor, and has volunteered with the National Park Service for more than ten years. In this talk he tells the story of Hans von (H.V.) Kaltenborn and the tours he led on behalf of the Brooklyn Daily Eagle in the 1910s and 1920s. Kaltenborn guided his “Eaglets” on annual trips across the continental United States, the territories of Alaska and Hawaii, South America, and Europe on adventures where they dedicated national parks, visited natural wonders, and raised awareness of the things to be seen across the country and around the world.
Junior Historians Club
Wicoff House, Plainsboro
Kids ages 6-8 will learn about historic preservation through fun and immersive activities. Each meeting will have a theme such as archaeology, architecture, conservation or genealogy. There will be weekly activities, crafts and museum scavenger hunts.
SUNDAY
Father’s Day Hike & Craft
Plainsboro Preserve, Plainsboro
Spend time together outdoors as you join a free nature hike and craft with the important father figure in your life.
Father’s Day Family Woodland Hike
New Jersey Botanical Garden, Ringwood
This will be an easy, child-friendly hike in the garden’s woodlands, where you’ll learn a bit about the plants and animals around you in a hike designed to fit the group.
Coffee and Chrome Car Show
Shoppes at Dragon Village, Bridgeton
Aside from the merchant shops, the weekend will include a car show and coffee club. Plus, there will be craftsmen, artisans and food vendors, along with 4-H-hosted crafts, a basket raffle and train and/or trolley rides.
Father’s Day Fun
iPlay America, Freehold
Download a free Unlimited Ride Band and Dad will be treated to unlimited rides on Go-Karts, Freedom Rider, Reverse Time and more. You can also get $10 off when you book a Topgolf Swing Suite Bay in advance.
Blippi: The Wonderful World Tour
State Theatre NJ, New Brunswick
Dance, sing and learn with Blippi and special guest Meekah as they discover what makes different cities unique and special. Kids will have a dance party in the concert hall.
Considering Juneteenth Forum
Princeton Public Library Community Room, Princeton
Explore Juneteenth and what it means today during an educational forum sponsored by the Princeton Civil Rights Commission in partnership with the Princeton Public Library and Princeton Human Services.
Bluegrass and Old-Time Music
Thompson Park, Lincroft
The musicians will hold a jam session under the trees. Feel free to bring your own instrument to join in!
Leonard Synder Memorial Father’s Day Fishing Derby
Nomahegan Park, Cranford
The pond will be stocked with bass and catfish, so bring a pole and you’ll get free bait and bobbers to see what you and the family can catch.
Father’s Day Luau
Bellview Winery, Landisville
Families can spend the day together enjoying live music, food trucks, and wine for the adults.
Father’s Day at The Track
Monmouth Park Racetrack, Oceanport
You can sit down for Father’s Day brunch in the Dining Club, or pack a picnic to celebrate in the picnic area. All gentlemen receive free admission. After you eat, you can watch the live horse racing, plus there will be free Family Fun Day activities in the afternoon.
Father’s Day Train Rides
Whippany Railway Museum, Whippany
Step back in time and surprise Dad with a 45-minute, round-trip ride that travels the route of The Whippanong Trail, where General George Washington’s armies were in the winter of 1779. Then, go inside the museum to see all sorts of artifacts and railroad history.
Eyewitness to Black History
Crane House and Historical YWCA, Montclair
During this guided house tour, explore 200 years of Black history in Montclair and New Jersey through rare firsthand accounts and documents such as a bill of sale for an enslaved person in the household, an 1800s newspaper, an 1840s New York Knickerbocker magazine, census data, personal letters, oral histories, and mid-century Jet and Ebony magazines.
Bob Hermes’ Father’s Day Fishing Derby
Boyd Pond, North Brunswick
Bring your family – plus a chair, fishing pole and bait to catch and release fish from the ponds in honor of Father’s Day.
Morristown NHP Archaeological Updates
Morristown National Historical Park, Morristown
Monmouth University Professor Richard Veit led several field schools comprised of Monmouth students and volunteers in excavations over the past few years. He will discuss his involvement in recent archaeological fieldwork at the park focusing on the Fort Hill and Hand’s Brigade sections.
Museum Littles
Wicoff House, Plainsboro
Little ones ages 2-4 will be introduced to new topics through fun crafts and engaged learning. Activities include classical music, sensory activities and an active play area based on weekly themes such as Little Architect, Little Botanist, Little Astronomer, Little Linguist, Little Archeologist and more.
Mullica Hill Toy Show
Gloucester County 4-H Fairgrounds, Mullica Hill
The vendors will be under covered pavilions so you can shop no matter the weather. Concessions will be available.
Summer Family Hike
Tenafly Nature Center, Tenafly
Everyone in the family is invited to this outdoor nature walk.
MONDAY (Juneteenth)
All About Us
Liberty State Park, Green Ring, Jersey City
Listen to music by Sango – Afrobeats, R&B, amapiano and hip hop – celebrate Black excellence.
Kids Juneteenth Nature Walk
Flat Rock Brook Nature Center, Englewood
Teams will be led by guides from the nature center. Kids must be accompanied by an adult.
Juneteenth Flag Raising Ceremony, Art Installation and Performance
The flag-raising will take place at Monument Hall. Princeton Symphony Orchestra will offer programming that celebrates local Black artists, musicians and entrepreneurs. An art installation called Art Against Racism: Beyond Freedom will be unveiled. At night, 2023 Grammy Award-winning baritone Will Liverman will perform with pianist Kevin Miller at the Performance Pavilion at the Morven Museum & Garden.
ONGOING
North to Shore Festival
June 14-18: Asbury Park
June 21-25: Newark
The three-city New Jersey-wide festival celebrates the best arts, entertainment and culture our state has to offer. There will be movie screenings, comedy shows, music concerts, tech demos, arts and more. This weekend at the Stone Pony, Demi Lovato takes the stage on Friday, and then the B-52’s perform on Saturday. At Asbury Lanes, watch for Face 2 Face, The Foes of Fern and The Extensions on Friday. Friday’s concert at The Wonder Bar is Nicole Atkins, and then lineup on Saturday is The Smithereens with vocalist Marshall Crenshaw.
Youth Sports Festival
DeVry University, North Brunswick
June 16 – July 4
There will be tons of carnival rides, games, music, shows, petting zoo and farm animals, plus fireworks on certain nights. Funds raised support youth sports organizations in town.
Wind Therapy Wellness Sails
Wilbur’s Marina, Forked River (Lacey Twp.)
June 16 through September
There are many options aboard the Wind Therapy sailboat: sunrise sails, sunset sails, full-day sails, teen camps, teen wellness and a full moon retreat. You take a gentle sail along the Barnegat Bay and then dock for meditation, crystal bowl singing and a quick chair massage.
Ocean Xperience
Liberty Science Center, Jersey City
June 17 – September 15 (LSC is closed Mondays)
You’ll become an “Xplorer” as you pilot the OceanXplorer, the most advanced research ship in the world. Deploy its research vehicle, conduct a guided mission, study orca groups and then watch OceanX footage of the ocean.
St. Gregory the Great Parish Family Carnival
St. Gregory the Great, Hamilton Twp.
June 19-24
Come down for rides, games, activities, food, music and entertainment.
State Fair Meadowlands
MetLife Center, East Rutherford
June 22 – July 9
With over 100 rides, free shows and 50 food options, the fair is considered one of the largest events in New Jersey.
Plays-in-the-Park: Rock of Ages
Roosevelt Park, Edison
Through June 24 (except Sundays)
Watch aspiring rock star (and resident toilet cleaner) Drew battle the big developers who want to turn everyone’s favorite Sunset Strip venue into a strip mall in the late 1980s. This Tony Award-nominated Broadway musical features the hits of bands including Styx, REO Speedwagon, Pat Benetar, Twisted Sister and more.
Laser Elton John
Edelman Planetarium, Glassboro
Fridays, through June 24
Laser Elton John celebrates his larger-than-life persona, bringing the Rocket Man’s powerful music to life in gorgeous laser light.
Princeton Festival
Morven Museum & Garden, Princeton
Through June 25
The Princeton Symphony Orchestra (PSO) has a lineup of performances, including a comic opera by Gioachino Rossini to independent tributes honoring Aretha Franklin and Harvey Milk; plus orchestral concerts, chamber music and dance, a Juneteenth celebration, Family Day, and genre-defying performances by top ensembles and three 2023 Grammy Award winners.
Sand and Sea
The Morris Museum, Morristown
Wednesday – Sunday, through July 9
From bathing suit fashions to souvenirs to art, check out objects in this exhibit that will make you feel like you’re on a beach vacation.
Dino Safari
Rockaway Townsquare, Rockaway Twp.
LuminoCity Festival brings 50 lifelike dinosaurs to Morris County. They blink, they breathe, they move their heads, they flap their wings. Kids can also go on dino-themed rides or play detective. After dark the prehistoric creatures become illuminated.
Golden Girls Murder Mystery
Resorts AC Casino and Hotel, Atlantic City
Select dates through August 19
Miami’s Fab Four are investigating a potential murder hit – when they become suspects in a completely different murder! Use your detective skills to figure out which character is responsible and what their motive is – could it possibly be one of our favorite friends who is guilty?
Movie House
Paramus Park Mall, Paramus
Thursday – Saturday, through August 26
Movie fans will love the 10 different rooms packed with games, virtual reality-inspired experiences, photo ops, “easter eggs” from movies and more. Snap photos in the Alice in Wonderland Illusion Room or the Under The Sea room; navigate through the Willy Wonka Infinity Tunnel, take a walk through munchkin land in the Wizard of Oz room, experience the magical Harry Potter-inspired room, or head over to the beach-themed room. There’s also a Movie in the Park Experience (with a real movie playing every night), and movie-themed games including interactive Movie House Trivia in a Blockbuster Room. You can take part in the Movie House Scavenger Hunt, too.
Morning Walk
Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary, Bernardsville
Saturdays, through August 26
New Jersey Audubon is hosting a weekly morning walk so you can enjoy a quiet morning at the sanctuary, walking the trails with an NJ Audubon staff or Associate Naturalist. The walk is informal and informative: you’ll discover birds, trees, tracks, wildflowers, reptiles and amphibians along the way.
Nature Infused Yoga
Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary, Bernardsville
Virtual option as well
Saturdays, through August 26
Yoga teacher Kristin Mylecraine will show how yoga is a great way to relax, find inner connection, and increase flexibility and strength. Explore the connections between yoga and nature in this 75-minute class hosted by New Jersey Audubon.
Disney 100: The Exhibition
The Franklin Institute, Philadelphia, PA
Through August 27
Disney fans will love this behind-the-scenes look at their favorite characters, movies and theme parks. Walk through 10 different galleries that will immerse you in sight, sound and touch.
Sand Sculptures in The Village
Peddler’s Village, New Hope, PA
Through August 31
Celebrate summer vibes with six larger-than-life sand sculptures that celebrate your and your kid’s favorite stories from the Brothers Grimm fairy tales, Peter Pan, The Jungle Book, Winnie-the-Pooh, Mother Goose stories and Alice in Wonderland.
Yoga By the Bay
Old Bridge Waterfront Park, Cliffwood Beach
Sundays and Tuesdays, through September
Bring a mat or towel because these one-hour yoga classes will be held on the grass overlooking the water.
Downtown After Sundown
Spiotta Park, South Orange
Saturdays, through September 2
Each week there will be a different musical style represented, such as Flamenco, New Orleans brass, jump blues, vintage rock, pop rock, country, R&B, pop, funk, blues, jazz and cover bands.
Beach Yoga
Ocean Place Resort and Spa, Long Branch
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, through September 3
Put on sunscreen, wear a hat and bring lots of water, because these one-hour hatha vinyasa classes are on the beach along the Atlantic.
Boardwalk Craft Show
Rio Grande Avenue Boardwalk, Wildwood
Select weekends, through September 3
As you stroll down the boardwalk, check out the artisans, handmade craft items, boutique items, gifts and more. The dates are May 27 and 28, June 17 and 18, July 1, 2 and 3, July 15 and 16, August 12 and 13, August 19 and 20, and September 2 and 3.
Statue at Sunset Cruise
Pier 16, New York, NY
Every day, through September 3
Bring your kids or date on board a small, intimate Circle Line vessel, where you’ll sail along the East River for an hour during sunset, passing by NYC landmarks such as the Statute of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge. There will be a photo stop at Lady Liberty.
Identity & Restraint: Art of the Dog Collar
AKC Museum of the Dog, New York
Through September 4
This unique exhibit presents an array of dog collars from the National Sporting Library & Museum. Fine art from the AKC Museum of the Dog and American Kennel Club Collections will help develop an understanding of the collar as both art and object and how its design changed in relation to different dog breeds and their uses.
Thomas and Friends Explore the Rails
Liberty Science Center, Jersey City
Through September 4
Kids can learn, play and solve problems while finding themselves in locations from the beloved TV series. Younger kids can practice counting objects, comparing sizes and learning colors. Older kids can practice their math skills, learn basic engineering concepts, discover science ideas through play, and see how technology works to keep engines running.
Bonfires on the Beach
Asbury Park
Through September 29
On Fridays in May and June, Wednesdays in July and August, and Fridays again in September, you can visit one of several beaches in Asbury for a family bonfire. Bring your chairs, blankets and s’more-making items.
Cowtown Pro-Rodeo
Cowtown Rodeo, Pilesgrove
Saturdays, through September 30
There will be tons of bull riding fun, including steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, barrel racing, tie-down roping and team roping.
Harry Potter: The Exhibition
50 West 34th Street, New York, NY
Through October 15
This immersive exhibit is dedicated to all things Harry Potter. The exhibition features the iconic moments, characters, settings and beasts seen in the films and stories of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts and also includes the costumes, props and imagery from the Broadway production Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. You can choose a Patronus, cast a spell, test their Quidditch skills, and brew potions while you’re there.
Little Falls Farmers Market
Little Falls
Sundays, through October 29
Soupeteer, Doughboy On The Rise, Jersey Pickles, High Mountain Foods, Pastabalities, Rosie’s Empanadas, Jersey Spirits, Seven Tribesmen and Cousins Main Lobster are just some of the returning vendors for the season. Live music will be from Your Mom’s Hot and new this year will be live jazz music from Hunter Hays – plus DJ Allstar Spotlight.
Mountain Creek Resort Bike Park
Mountain Creek Resort, Vernon Twp.
Through October 29
The bike park at Mountain Creek has 52 downhill trails that challenge everyone from first-time bikers to downhill professional racers. Zip tours feature a series of ziplines ranging from 200 feet to 1,500 feet in length. On Wednesday, May 17, the bike park opens for the season at Mountain Creek, followed by the opening of the zipline tours on May 27.
Duke Farms Market
Duke Farms, Hillsborough
Sundays, through November 12
The best farms and artisan vendors from the Raritan Watershed region will offer items for all your grocery needs.
T-Rex Takeover
Field Station: Dinosaurs, Leonia
Select days, through November 12
The park will be home to more than 30 larger-than-life-sized dinosaurs, and includes the Jurassic Jump attraction, activities like dino trivia or feeding a T-Rex, time to speak with actual paleontologists and a scavenger hunt.
Food Truck Festival Season
Laurita Winery, New Egypt
Select Saturdays and Sundays, through November 19
Each weekend will have a different theme with food trucks to match, plus have a glass or wine or two. There will be family activities, too.
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