After a bitterly cold winter season, the spring season is in full swing. Flowers blooming all around, clear skies and slow-growing warm temperatures signify more than just the start of a new season. The Easter holiday is upon us! This year, it will be celebrated on April 17. To get in that holiday mindset, we’ve complied different Easter events you can attend to celebrate right here in NJ. From egg hunts to taking photos with the Easter bunny, there is an activity for everybody to enjoy.
7 NJ Easter Activities for 2022
Springtime and Easter Festival at Alstede Farms – Chester, NJ
To kick off the Easter festivities, Alstede Farms will host a Springtime and Easter Festival for all NJ residents from all over to enjoy. The festival will be held from April 2 and lasts until April 19. You can purchase your admission ticket to the event through the Alstede Farms website. There is a starting ticket price of $19 per person. When going to the event, your admission ticket includes a hay wagon ride, an Easter egg hunt by the farm, a chance to meet the Easter bunny, the opportunity to feed baby farm animals and other holiday-related activities.
If you are hungry after a long day at the festival, food and drinks will be available to purchase separately. Alstede Farms will also have the Tomasello Winery Outdoor Patio opened for visitors to enjoy tastings and make purchases. On weekdays, ticket time slots are from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. While on weekends, time slots are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Take Insta-Worthy Photos at American Dream – East Rutherford, NJ
The Garden State’s mega-mall, American Dream Mall, is known for decorating its unique garden for any holiday. For Easter, it’s no different. The mall is decking out eye-catching decorations to set up their spring-themed garden. This hidden location makes the best photo op for your social media feeds. You may also catch a glimpse of the Easter bunny. Children have the opportunity to take professional pictures with the bunny. This temporary garden setup will be available from March 18 to April 16.
Enjoy City Views on a Cruise Ride – Weehawken, NJ
Lincoln Harbor Marina in Weehawken, NJ, will host a New Jersey Easter Sunday Signature Brunch Cruise on April 17. This activity is perfect for either a group of friends or family to come together and watch stunning city views along the Hudson and East Rivers. The cruise ride will last two hours with the chance to enjoy a brunch-inspired buffet. Guests will also enjoy the live performance of a DJ onboard. Tickets are available on the City Cruises page. Their recommended dress code is “casual.” Guests can also enjoy the fresh spring air by walking to the outdoor decks and taking memorable pictures along the NYC skyline.
Take a Ride on the Easter Bunny Express – Whippany, NJ
The Whippany Railway Museum will host a train ride that features the appearance of the Easter bunny. Guests will see views of the historic Whippanong Trail on a 45-minute ride. Special holiday treats will also be given out to children and they will get the chance to interact with the Easter bunny. This event will have four different occurrences: April 3, 9, 10 and 16 with the time slots of 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. Admission tickets also include an opportunity to visit the actual Whippany Railway Museum. The staff has listed more information on their website regarding the event.
Join in on the Bunny Chase at Terhune Orchards – Princeton, NJ
Looking for an activity perfect for young children? The annual Bunny Chase at Terhune Orchards is an ideal option for the young ones in your family. Terhune Orchards is celebrating the arrival of spring with this event all throughout Easter weekend on April 16 and 17. Children aged two to 10 are invited to come, but it’s a perfect family-friendly event for all ages. The non-competitive event will take guests on a self-guided treasure hunt. Other featured activities include bunny-themed craft time and the opportunity to meet Terhune’s very own bunnies, Ginger and Spice.
The Bunny Chase admission fee is $10 per guest that is three years old and up. Your ticket entry includes access to the farm on Cold Soil Road as well as the winery and farm store. Social distancing is recommended when attending the event.
Celebrate Easter at Historic Smithville – Galloway, NJ
On Easter Sunday, Historic Smithville & Village Greene will host a special parade for the Easter celebration at 1 p.m. The event recommends you come dressed in your finest Easter outfits and take a stroll through the village. Awards will even be given to people with the best attire. There is no cost for this event, and people of all ages are welcome. Around Historic Smithville, you will be able to enjoy their 50 shops, seven restaurants and fun entertainment such as an arcade, train ride and paddle boats.
Take on the Easter Egg Hunt at Playland’s Castaway Cove – Ocean City, NJ
This beloved Easter activity will have two occurrences on April 9 and 16. Playland’s Castaway Cove describes the event as an Easter-themed trick-or-treat outing. Starting at 1 p.m., guests will go to the event’s participating stores on 6th through 14th Streets to start collecting Easter eggs. All ages are welcome to take on this fun-filled Easter egg hunt.
Will you be attending any of these Easter events in NJ? Let us know in the comments!
Bertha is currently a junior at Rutgers University-Newark. She is interested in writing about fashion, lifestyle, arts / culture and most importantly - food! When she's not writing, she loves spending time with her golden retriever dog, Gizmo.
