
Halloween weekend is finally here! There are so many awesome activities to celebrate, either with or without the kids. Or, if scary is not your style, check out something that’s not filled with boos and screams. There are lots more activities listed in our online calendar!
ALL WEEKEND
Track or Treat
Meadowlands Racetrack, East Rutherford
Thursday – Sunday
Head out on a ghost hunt to investigate paranormal artifacts on the haunted festival grounds and discover the truth about Halloween and what from the otherworld has preoccupied this area.
Haunted Car Wash
Team Car Wash, Westfield
Thursday – Sunday
Carloads will engage with creepy costumed characters on the line, listen to Halloween-themed audio, and leave with a clean car! Look for your neighbors since local teens will be dressed up as the costumed characters.
The Wolf of Washington Forge
East Jersey Old Town Village, Piscataway
Thursday – Sunday
East Jersey Old Town Village will become Washington Forge, a settlement under siege. Join Jonathan Quill, Continental deserter and hunter-for-hire, as he tracks the wolf to a small river town in Raritan Valley, where he reveals George Washington’s sinister secret and makes his own heartbreaking discovery.
Halloween Harvest
Luna Park in Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY
Thursday – Sunday
With fun-filled activities ranging from trick-or-treating and costumed characters to seasonal decorating stations and pumpkin carving, you and your family can celebrate all things fall and welcome the Halloween spirits.
SHEIN x Klarna Wonderland
Iron23, New York, NY
Thursday – Sunday
Discover new brands in interactive spaces that will elevate your style and lifestyle during this special weekend pop-up event.

AddamsFest
Downtown Westfield
Thursday – Monday
The entire month was dedicated to celebrating Charles Addams and “The Addams Family.” If you’re in town, take photos of the house on Mindowaskin Pond.
Halloween Light Show
Demarest Farms, Hillsdale
Thursday – Monday
Drive through 32 acres of dazzling holiday lights displays. There will also be farm fresh goodies in the retail farm market, fire pits, make your own s’mores and hot cocoa.
Scarecrows in the Gardens
Van Vleck Gardens, Montclair
Thursday – Monday
While visiting the gardens, cast your vote for your favorite traditional scarecrow or dark-and-scary tribute to Halloween.
Pumpkin Patch Fundraiser
Pluckemin Presbyterian Church, Pluckemin
Thursday – Monday
When you purchase a pumpkin at the patch, you’re not just getting a fun decoration, you’re helping the Navajo and Pluckemin Presbyterian Church at the same time. A portion of the proceeds come back to the church for community outreach in the Navajo Nation of New Mexico.
Haunt O’ Ween
Bell Works, Holmdel
Thursday – Monday
You and your family will be able to wander through 200,000 square feet of performances, games, rides, photo ops and more immersive Halloween fun as Bell Works in Holmdel is transformed into the Town of Haunt O’ Ween, Ghoul City, the Farm House and Hidden Hollows.
Tricks and Treats
Sea Life, American Dream, East Rutherford
Thursday – Monday
Join Serafina the Sea Witch for a frighteningly fun time! Event activities include Pin the Nose on the Sea Witch, pumpkin carving inside of the tanks (on select weekdays), the activity trail, watching the stingrays and going through the frightening underwater Ocean Tunnel.
Kid’s Boo Fest & Fright Fest
Six Flags Great Adventure, Jackson
Thursday – Monday
For little ghouls and ghosts, the daytime Kid’s Boo Fest event is filled with Halloween activities, entertainment, trick-or-treat trails and other not-so-scary experiences. The area’s scariest and best Halloween event returns! Nighttime festivities include a fan-favorite ghoul parade, live stage shows, terrifying scare zones, plus six haunted houses designed for the ultimate scare.
Brick-or-Treat
LEGOLAND Discovery Center, American Dream, East Rutherford
Thursday – Monday
You’re invited to this Monster Party, where you can watch a special Halloween 4D movie, “The Great Monster Chase.” Then find the missing monsters rocking out in MINILAND, build a Halloween-themed creation in the Creative Workshop, grab a selfie with the LEGO Monster Band and brave a Monster special in the Monster Café.
Scarecrows in the Village
Peddler’s Village, New Hope, PA
Thursday – Monday
One hundred scarecrows handmade by Philly-area residents and organizations line the paths of the village. The display is free and on view every day through Oct. 31.
Art Exhibit: Joe Whale AKA “Doodle Boy”
Asbury Ocean Club, Asbury Park
Thursday – Monday
Be part of the debut of this brand-new art gallery, which will feature works from 12-year-old internationally acclaimed artist Joe Whale, also known as “Doodle Boy.” Inspired by his life and interests, his black-and-white drawings sprawl across numerous surfaces, including murals, canvases and even books.
Weekend Nighttime Adventures
Camelback Resort, Tannersville, PA
Friday – Saturday
All regular Mountain Adventures will be available during the daytime, and then also at night on Fridays and Saturdays. Take your pick from the Climbing Wall, Euro Bungee, Mountain Coaster, Sunbowl Tubing and the 1,000 Foot Zipline.
Haunted House
Court Street School, Freehold Borough
Friday – Saturday
Get spooked as you walk through the basement of the school during this “haunted house” tour.
Halloween Party
Liberty Science Center, Jersey City
Friday – Sunday
Make your way through the outdoor Spider Maze, visit the giant indoor pumpkin patch, check out a 3D movie about a haunted house, and meet some of the creepiest crawliest animals. You can also get tickets to a Halloween-themed laser show or the “Monsters of the Night Sky” program in America’s biggest planetarium.
Halloween Haunt
Dorney Park, Allentown, PA
Friday – Saturday
Dorney Park will release hundreds of terrifying ghouls and ghosts into the park, all ready to turn your nightmares into reality. Every corner is cursed with haunted scare mazes, scare zones and live (or maybe not live) entertainment. Keep in mind, these activities are not recommended for children under 13.
Dinosaurs: After Dark
Friday – Saturday
Take a lantern lit tour of Field Station: Dinosaurs – but watch out! The trails are dark and there’s a hungry T-Rex lurking in the shadows. At the end of the night, everyone will gather around the campfire for a dinosaur sing-a-long, roasted marshmallows and hot chocolate.
Haunted Train Ride & Walking Trail
Wild West City, Stanhope
Friday – Saturday
Main Street will be lit up, decorated and the Golden Nugget Saloon will be open. All ages can participate but use parental discretion; this event is rated PG-13. This is a scare Halloween event.
Middlesex County 4-H Haunted House and Hayride
4-H Center, East Brunswick
Friday – Saturday
Support the local 4-H youth and their Project GIFT program by taking a haunted hayride or going through their haunted house.
Godspell
Investors Bank Theater, Succasunna
Friday – Saturday
This rock opera has messages of unity, kindness, tolerance and love according to the Gospel, using storytelling techniques, songs and comic timing to tell the story of Jesus’ life, the Last Supper and the Crucifixion.
Children’s Songs Dance
Koch Theater, New York
Friday – Saturday
Set to selections from “Children’s Songs” by the late American jazz composer Chick Corea, the ballet was created on American Ballet Theatre Studio Company in January 2020 during a residency at The Pocantico Center in Tarrytown, New York.
A Nightmare Before Christmas
Forever Forest, Egg Harbor City
Friday – Sunday
Your family will experience Halloween like never before. Load up the kids for the fright trolley, haunted tree maze, hayrides, pumpkins, campfires, fun, games, food and beverages.
“Sinfonietta”
Koch Theater, New York
Friday – Sunday
The Fall Season of American Ballet Theatre showcases Jiří Kylián’s “Sinfonietta” with music by Leoš Janáček, scenery and costumes by Walter Nobbe and lighting by Kees Tjebbes.
The Wizard’s Halloween Party
Morley’s Magic Theater, Butler
Friday – Sunday
Join the Wizard for this silly, funny, magical (and not scary) Halloween magic show. Feel free to come dressed in your best Halloween costume.
Oktoberfest
Six Flags Great Adventure, Jackson
Friday – Sunday
This family-friendly German heritage festival will become a new fall tradition filled with authentic fare and a large selection of seasonal craft lagers and beers from around the world.
Halloween House
Ridgewood
Friday – Monday
Stop by on select nights to see this spooky decorated Halloween house.
The Spirits of Rahway: Lantern-Lit Cemetery Tour
Merchants and Drovers Tavern Museum, Rahway
Saturday – Sunday
This nighttime tour will showcase the sinister side of Rahway’s history. Guests will be escorted through the cemetery by their “Spirit Guide” who will relay 13 true stories of murder, tragic deaths and the unexplained goings-on within the cemetery gates.
Boo at the Boardwalk
Jenkinson’s, Pt. Pleasant
Saturday-Sunday
How fun does underwater pumpkin carving sound? At this two-weekend event, your kids will love all the crafts, face painting, trick-or-treating, entertainment and kiddie rides.
Halloween Family Fright Night
Maplewood
Saturday – Sunday
Join The Maplewood Strollers for a family-friendly spooktacular revue, filled with fiendishly frightful songs, spine-tingling sketches and an audience costume contest.
Spooky Wild West Fest
Wild West City, Stanhope
Saturday – Sunday
Watch tales of the Wild West come to life through historical characters, live action dramatizations and demonstrations by period craftsmen. Ride in style aboard the Wild West City Stage Coach or Train and younger cow-boos and cow-ghouls can hop on a pony. Children can also participate in the Wild West Fest costume contest, win fun prizes and hunt down the Headless Horseman.
Fall Family Fun Finale Weekend
Terhune Orchards, Princeton
Saturday – Sunday
PYO pumpkins and apples, pumpkin painting, pony rides, pedal and play tractors, children’s games and activities, Corn Stalk Maze and Hay Bale Maze, Adventure Story Barn, barnyard farm animals, pollinator sunflower trail, scavenger hunt and homemade foods are part of the fun – and this weekend only is the Personality Pumpkin Contest!
Great Pumpkin Fest
Dorney Park, Allentown, PA
Saturday – Sunday
Hop on your tractor, pirate ship or witch’s broom and hurry on over for a super-sized celebration of all things fall. You’ll meet members of the Peanuts Gang, make a holiday craft at Charlie Brown’s Craft Corner, pedal your way through the farm on a mini tractor at the Daisy Hill Tractor Stomp, try to find your way out of Linus’ Hay Bale Maze, visit your favorite farm animals at Peppermint Patty’s Petting Zoo, trick-or-treat down the street, have a ton of fun while being quiet during Schroeder’s Silent Disco, and enjoy all the usual rides and games.
Carousel Corn Maze
Howell Living History Farm, Hopewell Twp.
Saturday – Sunday
“Get lost” in a 4-acre cornfield with pathways cut in the shape of an old-fashioned carousel. While wandering through, find eight “puzzle pieces” located in hidden mailboxes to complete your personal map of the maze. The maze courtyard also features a pumpkin patch, hayrides, food tent and kids’ hay-bale maze.
Simon and His Shoes
The Tank, New York
Saturday – Sunday
What do you do when your shoes walk out on you? A pair of shoes walk out on their owner because he doesn’t wear them, and he never even leaves the house. Simon chases after his shoes with the help of his younger sister Izzy. Follow these characters on an adventure of a lifetime.
Boo at the Zoo
The Bronx Zoo, The Bronx, NY
Saturday – Sunday
Come dressed in your Halloween best and enjoy the greatest Halloween tradition in The Bronx! Kids and adults alike will love the candy trail, costume parade, crafts, live bird meet-and-greet, magic and mind reading, pumpkin carving demos, the Wildlife Theater, the Boo Playground, Extinct Animal Graveyard, pumpkin trail, and Trick-or-Truth Trail.
The Great Pumpkin Train
Snyder Farm, Phillipsburg
Saturday – Sunday
Take the Great Pumpkin Train down to the corn maze. Families will have a great time trying to find six hidden podiums, and then the Monster Mystery Game where you have to find which monster hid Books. There will be free pumpkins for every child!
Von Thun’s Fall Festival Weekends
South Brunswick and Washington Twp.
Saturday – Sunday
Families will love the 6+ acre “No Farmers, No Food” Minion corn maze; unlimited hayrides to the pumpkin patch; activities and attractions in the festival area (Singing Chicken Show, pumpkin checkers, rubber duck races, pedal carts, trike course, barnyard basketball, mini golf, pumpkin bowling, corn hole, roller bowler, etc.); apple and pumpkin picking; and access to the Barnyard Area. There is a Corn Cannon and Pumpkin Blaster. Enjoy Moonlight Activities in South Brunswick as well, such as the corn maze and s’mores by the campfire. South Brunswick also offers special PLUS admission weekends. At the Washington location, admission includes 20+ activities as well as access to the apple orchard and pumpkin fields. There is a Corn Cannon but no Pumpkin Blaster here. Pony rides are available on select days. Plus, there will be a Kids Halloween Costume Contest on Sunday!
Fall Festival Days
Happy Day Farm, Manalapan
Saturday – Sunday
Spend all day with the kids at the sunflower field, Pumpkinville, corn maze, pig races, tractor rides, fun slide, feeding zoo and more – there are over 35 activities included with admission!
New Jersey Women’s Expo
New Jersey Exposition & Convention Center, Edison
Saturday – Sunday
Learn a new hobby; purchase a one-of-a-kind gift; or relax and unwind with free massages, beauty treatments and even a new hairstyle. Enjoy DIY crafting, samples, wine tastings, fashion shows, beauty and wellness pavilions and hundreds of pop-up booths. Learn something new from the Keynote Speaker Speakers, inspiring seminars, workshops, emerging fashion designers and more.
“The Dream”
Koch Theater, New York
Saturday – Sunday
Staged for American Ballet Theatre by Susan Jones, “The Dream” is set to music by Felix Mendelssohn and features sets and costumes by David Walker and lighting by John B. Read.
Trick-or-Treat Weekends
Storybook Land, Egg Harbor Twp.
Saturday – Sunday
Come in costume and then collect treats throughout the park. A trick-or-treat bag will be given to kids 2 and older.
Halloween Celebrations
Westfield Garden State Plaza, Paramus
Saturday – Monday
On Saturday, catch one of two Zach Alexander’s Spooktacular Magic Shows, where the illusionist will perform a spooky show filled with magic and comedy. On Sunday, travel back in time to hear a haunted tale – but beware for the Headless Horseman may appear at the farmers market. There will also be a pumpkin patch and vendors selling fall favorites. On Monday, master illusionist David Caserta will have people disappear and reappear right before your eyes. After that, stay to trick-or-treat around the mall.
FRIDAY
BooClaws Spectacular
First Energy Park, Lakewood
The Hogwarts Express is coming to the Jersey Shore. “Harry Potter and The Sorcerer’s Stone” will be shown on the video board, plus there will be a full set of Halloween- and Harry Potter-themed activities around the ballpark.
Trick-or-Treat Around the Park
iPlay America, Freehold
Families already love the part-arcade, part-theme park, part-boardwalk iPlay America, but it becomes festive with “spooktacular” activities as kids can trick-or-treat, take part in a costume contest and compete for raffle prizes.
Ghostly Graveyard Gathering
Peddler’s Village, New Hope, PA
This is not your mummy’s party! Adults can don their best costume or dress in black for a spirited evening with live DJ, club-style dancing, fire pits, games, photos and more!
Costume Contest and Trunk-or-Treat
Recreation Gym, Belmar
Categories for the costume contest will be Funniest, Scariest and Most Original, plus a group contest. The winners will be announced at the Trunk-or-Treat event outside.
Somerville Spooktacular
Downtown Somerville
There will be three locations for trick-or-treating, a costume contest, pumpkin decorating, hay rides and music.
“Thriller” Dance Party
Crunch Fitness, Toms River
Your favorite Halloween dance routine comes to life. All members and their guests can dance along to Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.” Tara Romano will lead the class. Dress up for even more fun.
Camille’s Rainbow
Carnegie Hall, New York, NY
This new immersive performance for babies and toddlers follows the title character’s journey to discover herself alongside her colorful friends Roo, Boo and Yo. The show encourages creative play, as children explore a world of colors and listen to enchanting sounds.
Halloween Party
Asbury Lanes, Asbury Park
Adults 21+ can watch the shock illusion of Dan Sperry while listening to the beats of DJ Malo and taking part in the costume contest. There will be lots of food and drink specials.
“Phantom of the Opera”
First Presbyterian Church of Cape May, Cape May
For one night only, East Lynne Theater Company presents this original version of the show. Providing live organ accompaniment is Wayne Zimmerman who has been playing for ELTC’s silent film presentations since 2011.
SATURDAY
Howl-o-Ween Costume Contest
Seafarer, Highlands
There will be a free costume contest for dogs and their humans, with prizes awarded for the scariest, most original and funniest costumes. Enjoy discounted drinks for dog owners while you play trivia.
Strutt Your Mutt Dog Costume Contest
Bell Works, Holmdel
Bring your dressed up pooch to Bar Bella for this awesome costume contest.
Punkin Chunkin
The Shannon Rose Irish Pub, Ramsey and Clifton locations
Test your strength by throwing your pumpkin into the Punkin Patch to raise money for St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.
Halloween Party
The Shannon Rose Irish Pub, Ramsey and Clifton locations
After the Punkin Chunkin, if you’re 21+, stick around for the Halloween party at 10 pm. There will be a costume contest for best costume, scariest and best duo.
Boo at the Zoo
Cape May Zoo, Cape May
Everyone can wear a costume and take part in activities for the kids, games, candy, entertainment, animals, an inflatable obstacle course, a pirate ship and more. After the Halloween costume contest, stay for exciting entertainment with the zoo’s very own ambassador animals.
Hunterdon Harvest Fest
Stangl Road, Flemington
The second annual Farm to Festival harvest celebration of local businesses, farms and breweries will feature live music, farm to festival local foods, craft beer, and games for people all ages.
Fright Light Laser Show
Raritan Valley Community College Planetarium, Branchburg
The witches and ghouls continue to haunt the planetarium. They are especially fond of laser songs, including “The Addams Family Theme Song,” “Monster Mash” and “Ghostbusters.”
Halloween Craft & Vendor Fair
Seagrave Acres, Howell
Bring your kids and your pets to this family-friendly day of mediumship readings, tarot readings, face painting, crafts for kids, trick-or-treating, dozens of local artisans and vendors, and live music by The Jersey Surecats Band. Wear a costume for the contest.
Haunted Underground Mine Tour
Sterling Hill Mining Museum, Ogdensburg
Meet paranormal couple Cody Ray DesBiens and Satori Hawes, see their most haunted objects and hear about their origins. Then take a lantern-lit tour through the very haunted Sterling Hill Mine: 77 people died inside the mine over 90 years ago are they still around?
Halloween Parade
Elizabeth Street to Farnsworth Avenue, Bordentown City
Many local organizations, scout troops, families and neighbors create floats for the parade in a variety of themes. Masqueraders can compete in the costume contest and then have the option of walking in the parade after they are judged.
All Hallows’ Eve Concert
Historic New Bridge Landing, River Edge
Listen to “Songs of Love, Death, and the Supernatural.” Balladeers Ridley and Anne Enslow, performing on the fiddle and hammered dulcimer, will trace the legends, beliefs and superstitions about Halloween beginning in the medieval times through the 18th century and beyond.
Fall-O-Ween Festival
Verona Town Hall, Verona
Celebrate fall and Halloween with a huge festival plus trick-or-treating.
Eat, Shop and Be Witchy
Keyport bayfront
Keyport Bayfront Business Cooperative’s Halloween themed events include card reading, haunted selfie stations, the Downtown Potion Scramble, the Glam-Witch Finishing Face Touches, Ghostly Bay Cruises, The Keyport Witch Parade and the Haunted BayWitch Walk.
Lunar Faire
Jungle Habitat, West Milford
Come to the Lunar Faire for a “witchy” and weird shopping and social event. Attractions include spooky vibes, tricks and treats, a costume contest, a scavenger hunt, a potions lab, food trucks, a poetry circle, Halloween magic, face painting, music, a drum circle and henna. Plus, wait for the return of the Glitter Pumpkin.
Halloween Baking Workshop
Plainsboro
Kids ages 4-6 can attend one session, while kids 6+ can attend the afternoon session, where they will bake and decorate six different projects: witch cupcake, pumpkin forest cupcake, spooky pretzel, strawberry ghost, scary mousse and an eye truffle.
HalloWheaton
WheatonArts, Millville
Trick-or-treat in your Halloween costume throughout the WheatonArts campus to take photos with traditional costumed characters played by the talented Mystic Realms actors. Plus, many Latin American cultures believe that the deceased return on the Day of the Dead, so head inside the Event Center to learn about this cultural holiday.
Disney Junior Live on Tour: Costume Palooza
Mayo Performing Arts Center, Morristown
Mickey, Minnie and their pals are getting ready to throw a huge costume party but mysterious green rain, wind and smoke keep interrupting the fun. Can Spidey and his Amazing Friends help save the Costume Palooza? Come join the party! The performance will feature favorite songs from hit Disney Junior series, as well as new original music.
High Tea and Hat Fashion Show
Grand Centurion Crystal Ballroom, Clark
Kids and adults can take part in a tea party while watching a fun fashion show with the Top Ladies of Distinction. Purchase tickets via PayPal at tlodtreasurermucc@gmail.com
Halloween: Celestial Origins
Raritan Valley Community College Planetarium, Branchburg
Halloween is an astronomical holiday! Learn the history of Halloween and how it fits into the seasons an as a “cross-quarter day” during this new production. You will also explore the night sky and learn what planets, constellations and stars will be visible on Halloween.
Trunk-or-Treat
North Wildwood
Families are encouraged to bring their vehicles decorated for Halloween. Children will come in costume and visit each car where families will provide treats from the trunks of their cars. There will be no judging of the children’s costumes, but prizes will be awarded to the best decorated vehicles. There will also be music, magic and balloon twisting.
“Poe by Candlelight”
First Presbyterian Church of Cape May, Cape May
Started in 2015, “Poe by Candlelight” continues to be one of the East Lynne Theater Company’s most popular events. This year, stories by the master of the macabre include “The Cask of Amontillado,” “Bernice,” “The Masque of the Red Death, and “The Tell-Tale Heart” read by Equity professional actors Matt Baxter Luceno, Amanda Brinlee and Gayle Stahlhuth.
Haunted House
Elks Lodge, North Wildwood
Trick-or-treaters walk through a “haunted house” and receive treats.
Pet Parade & Costume Contest
Town Center Lake, Robbinsville
Get your kids and your pets dressed in their best Halloween costumes and head to the lake for a pet parade followed by a costume contest. The parade is free to attend, but if you’d like your pet to participate, there is a $10 charge per pet.
All Barracks Eve Fundraiser
Old Barracks Museum, Trenton
Celebrate the autumn season at this family-friendly event that will include period demonstrations, walking tours, kids’ activities, and will end with the telling of traditional spooky tales around a bonfire.
Haunted Tonight
Plainsboro
With the theme of “The Little Mermaid” you and your family can enjoy trick-or-treating, pumpkin picking, Halloween games, spooky crafts, a Halloween show, Halloween stories, a haunted trail, hayrides and refreshments. The costume parade starts at 5 pm outside of the Wicoff House.
HalloweenFest
Freehold Raceway Mall, Freehold Twp.
On the upper level of the mall, kids can make crafts from Color Me Mine, learn the Monster Mash with Frankenstein & Friends, watch a “bewitching” performance by The Sanderson Sisters and have lots of candy (while supplies last). Hosted by 94.3 The Point.
Origins of Halloween Night Hike
The Watershed Institute, Pennington
Take a fun, kid-friendly journey through the woods. You will hike through a pumpkin-lined trail and meet Stingy Jack, learn about the first jack-o’-lantern and meet Irish folktale characters in an original drama. The actors tell a story with five skits along the lit trails that wind through the woods.
1830s All Hallow’s Eve
Historic Village at Allaire, Wall Twp.
There will be storytelling, superstitions, a pumpkin carving contest, fortunetelling, spooky characters, candy treats, soul cake cooking and more. Wear a costume.
Fright Light
Raritan Valley Community College Planetarium, Branchburg
This laser concert features such tunes as “Alive” by Meatloaf, “Thriller” by Michael Jackson and “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” by The Charlie Daniels Band. Recommended for ages 13 to adult. This show is not recommended for young viewers or those easily scared!
Haunted Downtown
Metuchen
There will be lots of spooky and not-so-spooky Halloween events throughout the borough, including attractions, games, surprises and business promotions.
Museum for All Ball
Frick Chemistry Laboratory Atrium, Princeton University, Princeton
The ball features an informal evening of music, dancing, cocktails and a strolling supper.
Trunk-or-Treat
McDonald’s, Neptune
McDonald’s Owner/Operator Julio Morgan Gillis will be hosting a Trunk-or-Treat event from 2-4pm at his McDonald’s restaurant at Highways 33 and 35. The event will include a deejay, the local fire department for touch-a-truck, attendance from the Neptune Township Police Department who will be handing out candy, and more! All customers are encouraged to come in costume.
Pumpkin Cake Pop Making Workshop
Virtual, presented by The Eclectic Chic Boutique
From the comfort of your kitchen, log in to this virtual workshop that will instruct you and the kids on how to use cake, frosting and chocolate to make pumpkin cake pops.
Chris DiStefano
Wellmont Theater, Montclair
Chris Distefano is one of today’s biggest and most beloved names in comedy. Chris quickly rose to success after being named the funniest person on MTV for his show-stopping performances on the Guy Code/Girl Code series. From there, he went on to star in IFC’s Benders, co-host the Netflix gameshow Ultimate Beastmaster, and even had his own CBS sitcom.
SUNDAY
Running with the Devils 5K Run & Walk
West Orange
RWJBarnabas Health, in collaboration with the New Jersey Devils, will host the 6th annual RWJBarnabas Health Run & Walk. Though there is a virtual option throughout the month, the Live Run will take place Oct. 30 at the South Mountain Recreation Complex, while the Live Wellness Walk will be also be held Oct. 30 but at the Turtle Back Zoo.
Halloween Spooktacular
Bell Works, Holmdel
The Monmouth Moms will present this family fun day, complete with a Kids Halloween Activity Zone, face painting, balloon animals, art activity by The Muse Art Studio, character visits, storytime, costume contest, and Halloween activities with Snapology of Monmouth County.
Cemetery Tour
Rosedale Cemetery, Montclair
Founded over 181 years ago, Rosedale Cemetery marked the beginning of a new movement in how America took care of its deceased. Venture into the old section on this guided tour, discussing grave imagery as well as the people who are buried there.
Farm-to-Table Pumpkin Pancake Breakfast
Alstede Farms, Chester
Take a scenic wagon ride around the farm to wind up at Harvest Hall where you will indulge in homemade pumpkin pancakes, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, breakfast potatoes and drinks. If you can move after, continue your day on the farm picking pumpkins in the fields.
Trunk-or-Treat
UMC Red Bank, Red Bank
This Halloween party features DJ Marco Bianculli and a photo booth, games, a costume parade and prizes for best trunk.
Malloween Monster Bash
Brunswick Square, East Brunswick
Come to the mall for trick-or-treating, face painting and a “Thriller” flash mob with a Michael Jackson impressionist. Meet Frankenstein, Witch and Werewolf, and do crafts with them.
Not-So-Scary Hike
Cora Hartshorn Arboretum, Short Hills
Some people may consider spiders, snakes and owls scary but you can meet them and decide for yourself. Learn about animals that are not as spooky as you may think. Afterwards join a hike through the woods and enjoy some snacks.
Halloween 5K & Preschool Pumpkin Dash
Carnegie Center, Princeton
Your family members can each participate, either in a Preschool Pumpkin Dash, a 1-mile walk or run, or a 5K. Come dressed in costume for prizes!
Halloween Costume Contest
Sesame Place, Langhorne, PA
Kids will compete at 12:30 pm, but then the whole family can get in on the action at 1:30 pm. The contest is free with paid admission to the park.
Howl-O-Ween Pet Costume Fashion Show
Kevana Wellness, Jersey City
Let your pets walk along a real red carpet as they wag their tails for a pet photographer as they make their way to the stage!
Halloween Parade
Main Street, Freehold Borough
Get dressed up and march in the parade or watch from the sidelines.
Halloween at the Market
New Egypt Flea Market, New Egypt
Dress up, bring the kids and have fun a day before Halloween. Bring your car to set up in the designated “Trunk or Treating” area. Bring your pup dressed up and let them strut their stuff around the market. There will be food trucks, additional vendors and photo ops with Sheriff the Baby Bull. The shops will be open, too.
HalloQween Spooktacular
The Mosa Social, Piazza di Roma, Aberdeen
This Halloween-themed drag brunch is for adults only. Celebrate Halloween with an afternoon jam-packed with food, specialty cocktails, dancing, hilarious skits, high energy performances and absolute ridiculousness with some of New York’s, Philadelphia’s and New Jersey’s top drag queens!
Halloween Brunch
Ce La Vi, Red Bank
Come dressed to impress at this annual brunch. Seatings are either from 11:30 am – 2:30 pm or 3-6 pm. Make a reservation in advance so you don’t have to wait.
MONDAY: HALLOWEEN
Halloween Parade
Main Street, Toms River
After you go trick-or-treating, bring your energetic kids to Main Street where they can march in or view the annual Halloween parade.
Ragamuffin Parade
Washington Street, Hoboken
Special guests this year include Funny Factory Clown Band, Ron Albanese AKA Polka Dot, Elvis “The King,” and the Rockin’ Redwings Marching Band. Following the parade’s conclusion, the city will host its annual costume contest.
Trick-or-Treat at the BOO-tique
The Eclectic Chic Boutique, Montclair
Kids, teens and adults, with or without a costume, can stop by the shop for free non-candy prizes on Halloween!
Trick-or-Treating
Collingswood
Take the family out in their best costumes for trick-or-treating around town!
Safe Howl-O-Ween
Turtle Back Zoo, West Orange
Don your costume and head to see your favorite wild animals – and have a sweet treat as you trick-or-treat around the park. There will also be shows and stilt walkers.
Trunk-or-Treat
Montville Community Park Amphitheater, Montville
Montville Twp. kids from pre-K through Grade 5 are invited to come in costume and trunk-or-treat from car to car.
Trunk-or-Treat
McDonald’s, Paterson
McDonald’s Owner/Operator Alisa Harrison will be hosting a Trunk-or-Treat event from 3- 6 pm at the McDonald’s restaurant at 485-497 Broadway. All customers are encouraged to come in costume, and the first 75 kids dressed up will receive a free Happy Meal!
Kids Eat Free
The Shannon Rose Irish Pub, Ramsey and Clifton locations
Kids who are dressed in costume will receive a free meal from the Kid’s Menu.
Kids Eat Free
Applebee’s
Certain locations will offer a free Kid’s Meal for kids 12 and under when accompanied by a paying adult. Offer valid on Halloween only.
ONGOING
Beyond King Tut: The Immersive Experience
Pier 36, New York, NY
Oct. 28 – Jan. 1, 2023
Travel back 3,300 years to learn the story of King Tut, and walk through nine different galleries that discuss his rule as a child pharaoh, his family, the discovery of his tomb, the mysteries surrounding his early death and his journey to the afterlife. This celebrates the 100th anniversary of King Tut’s tomb discovery, which was on Nov. 4, 1922.
Halloween House
Edison, Lawrence Twp., Paramus, Rockaway, Toms River
Every day, through Nov. 1
Each of the 10 rooms in the 10,000-square-foot locations will be curated by Hollywood set designers, artists and Halloween lovers using lighting, props and effects. There will be no actors, no jump scares and no gore so kids can enjoy. Instead, you’ll enter different rooms to enjoy scenes like “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” “Stranger Things,” Trick-or-Treat Room, Glow-in-the-Dark Room or 1940s-style Haunted Room. There’s even a pumpkin patch room!
Harvest Moon Nights
Alstede Farms, Chester
Fridays and Saturdays, through Nov. 4
The selection of fall activities offers something for everyone, from harvest moon hayrides to nighttime corn maze fun. Delight in picking your own pumpkin, enjoy live entertainment, sip fresh pressed cider, all while creating the perfect family memories. Enjoy apple cider donut ice cream, pumpkin ice cream and other seasonal favorites at the ice cream window until 9 pm.
Jack O’Lantern Experience
Skylands Stadium, Augusta
Every day, through Nov. 6
Enjoy seasonal food and drinks, carnival rides, pumpkin picking and painting, plus a stroll through over 6,000 hand-carved jack-o’-lanterns.
Great Pumpkin Festival
Heaven Hill Farms, Vernon
Every day, through Nov. 6
Try not to get lost in the 10-acre corn maze so you can enjoy other fall fun activities like the spider web crawl, hay crawl, pig racing, obstacle course, Lincoln Log builder and Monster Slingshots.
Family Fun Football Sundays
Casino Pier, Seaside Heights
Sundays, through Nov. 6
Come out with the kids and enjoy games, food and football. There will be half-off video and virtual reality games at the arcade, valid with a SURF Card. From 3 – 5 pm there will be special character appearances plus free face painting. There will be food and beer specials at the bar for adults.
The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular
Sesame Place, Langhorne, PA
Select dates, through Nov. 6
Kids will enjoy trick-or-treating around the park, Halloween-themed shows and parades, participating in the interactive Scarecrow Scavenger Hunt and taking pictures with all the characters who will be dressed up in their own costumes.
Jersey Shore Ghost Tours: Red Bank
Red Bank
Fridays, through Nov. 11
Take a lantern-lit tour throughout the borough, starting at The Dublin House, where Red Bank’s most well-known ghost resides.
Jersey Shore Ghost Tours: Keyport
Keyport
Saturdays, through Nov. 12
Take a lantern-lit tour along the waterfront to hear ghost stories of this Jersey Shore town.
Nature Explorers Fall Series
Lorrimer Sanctuary, Franklin Lakes
Saturdays, through Nov. 12
Each week, kids can participate in a different activity such as meeting reptiles, pressing apple cider, creating crafts from nature and going on a mammal scavenger hunt.
Scarecrows of the Sea
Adventure Aquarium, Camden
Every day, through Nov. 13
Check out these “seaworthy” scarecrows designed like pirates, penguins and mermaids that were handcrafted by aquarium employees!
Bear Mountain Sightseeing Cruise
Pier 83, New York
Weekends, through Nov. 13
Call this a floating festival: climb aboard a Circle Line boat for an Oktoberfest party that will bring you to Bear Mountain, where you can sightsee or hang out at the amusement area.
Little Ones Nature Series
Plainsboro Preserve, Cranbury
Fridays, through Nov. 18
Preschoolers and their parents will be outdoors participating in storytime, activities and crafts.
The Golden Girls Murder Mystery
Resorts Casino, Atlantic City
Select Saturdays, through Nov. 19
Sophia, Dorothy, Blanche and Rose are planning a party – but they realize one of their guests has murderous intentions. Cast your vote for who the killer is. Plus, play other games and try to get a selfie with all four cast members.
Outdoor Walking Tours
Princeton University Art Museum, Princeton
Saturdays and Sundays, through Nov. 20
Princeton University is home to one of the country’s most significant collections of 20th- and 21st-century public sculpture. Join a free, hour-long walking tour led by a museum tour guide and discover the campus’s outdoor artworks, including Henry Moore’s bronze Oval with Points, monumental geometric screens by Louise Nevelson, and more.
Sunday Farmers Market
Garden State Plaza, Westfield; in the parking lot between Macy’s and Route 17
Sundays, through Nov. 20
Garden State Plaza is the site of weekly Sunday farmers markets. Expect food vendors, food trucks, music, activities for kids and a car show from 9 am – 2 pm.
Exhibitions
Passaic County Arts Center, Hawthorne
Every day, through Nov. 27
When visiting, make sure to check out several exhibits that will be on view: “My Own Witness: Rupture and Repair” by Donna Bassin, an award-winning photographer, artist, author and filmmaker; “Texture in Nature” by Susan Zulauf, a NJ-based artist; a travelling exhibit from New York University entitled “Stereotypes in U.S. Popular Culture;” “In Cemento Veritas” by Mario Loprete; and “Sonic Peaks” by Payton MacDonald.
Sensory-Friendly Tours
Macculloch Hall Historical Museum, Morristown
Third Saturday of the month, through December
Families and care partners with neurodiverse children and teens can visit the historic house and explore the new garden sensory pathway through sight, sound, touch and smell.
Weekend Wine Tasting
Weekends, through Dec. 31
Tomasello Winery, multiple locations
Plan a relaxing evening sipping wine at any of their five locations in the South Jersey region. Choose from a wide variety of award-winning wines and bubblies, accompanied by assorted cheese boards and truffles. Wine Tastings are available every day, but reservations are strongly recommended for a weekend wine tasting.
Gold in Motion
Hall des Lumières, New York
Every day, through Dec. 31
This digital art center showcases entirely new, custom-curated experiences based on the work of different world-renowned artists, starting with the debut exhibition, Gustav Klimt: Gold in Motion.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Exhibit
Liberty Science Center, Jersey City
Through Jan. 16, 2023
Known as the “heroes in a half-shell,” Raphael, Leonardo, Michelangelo and Donatello will share life lessons and team-building skills with their crime-fighting tactics in “Nickelodeon’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Secrets of the Sewer.” You’ll be transported to the underground home of the Turtles where you’ll get to see what happens in their secret hideaway. There will be lots of STEM-type activities to challenge your kids.
Stand Up! 10 Mighty Women Who Made a Change
Zimmerli Art Museum, New Brunswick
Through Feb. 12, 2023
Celebrate the debut picture book of “Stand Up!” by Brittney Cooper, professor of women’s, gender and sexuality studies and Africana studies at Rutgers University, with illustrations by Cathy Ann Johnson. The exhibition features illustrations of all the images in the book, as well as preparatory materials, by Johnson, on public view for the first time. “Stand Up!” is on view in the Zimmerli’s Duvoisin Gallery, dedicated to showcasing original artwork for children’s books.
Trail Riding Program
Mercer Meadows Equestrian Center, Pennington
Saturdays, through mid-May 2023
Kids (and adults) 12 and up can go on a leisurely 45-minute horseback trail ride around the Mercer Stables property. No riding experience is necessary.
Halloween season is in full swing! If you need allergen-free candy, we’ve got a list of treats for you. And if you prefer to make some of your own goodies, check out one of these baking lessons.