The air is cooler, the leaves are changing and the calendar is packed with fun things to do this weekend in New Jersey. From art festivals and pumpkin carving to food trucks and whiskey tastings, every corner of the Garden State has something to offer.
Newark Arts Festival – Newark
Oct 8 – Oct 12
New Jersey’s biggest celebration of creativity returns this weekend. Newark will be booming with art, music and community. Breathtaking galleries, performances and pop-ups will fill the city, while venues like Newark Museum of Art and NJPAC hold specific events. Expect installations from local artists, panel discussions and plenty of live music at this four-day festival.
More info here
Amazing Pumpkin Carve – Hopewell
Oct 9 – Oct 12
Hosted by Hopewell Valley Arts Council, this is one of fall’s best events. Over 70 massive pumpkins will be transformed into elaborate sculptures—lighting up Woolsey Park. Visitors can expect illuminated pumpkin displays, food trucks, hayrides and live music. A vote will be held for the best carving of the night. The event benefits local community programs and runs through the weekend.
More info here
Bloomfield HarvestFest – Bloomfield
Oct 11
This annual fall celebration is perfect for the whole family. Dance and sing along to a live DJ, play on inflatable rides, enjoy snacks, shop local vendors and peruse the fest’s biergarten. This is one of the most anticipated fall events in Essex County!
More info here
Fall Taste of Highlands – Highlands
Oct 11
Highlands invites all New Jersey fodies to sample the town’s best bites. Guests will collect a map at Huddy Park, making their way through local spots to try some of the best food and cocktails in town. There is even a shuttle, which helps visitors hop between participating restaurants with ease. Enjoy an afternoon of eating and exploring along the bay.
More info here
Asbury Park Whiskey and Spirits Fest – Asbury Park
Oct 11
At Bradley Park, peruse through a massive tasting event featuring more than 100 styles of spirits—from tequila and rum, to mezcal and whiskey. Spirits from local distilleries such as Garden State Distillery and 3BR Distillery will be available alongside dozens of international brands. Guests will enjoy live entertainment, games and plenty of tasty food.
More info here
Food Trucks in the Fall – Wall
Oct 11 – Oct 12
Oak Tree Lodge transforms into a seasonal fairground with over a dozen food trucks, live bands,bonfires and entertainment. Chow down on a variety of cuisines, such as Puerto Rican, barbecue and Cajun. Families will also enjoy a petting zoo, miniature golf, bumper cars and a Ferris wheel. Proceeds go toward supporting summer camps for children with cancer.
More info here
Diwali Celebration at MarketFair – Princeton
Oct 11
This is one of NJ’s most vibrant celebrations of culture. Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights, brings live music, dance, food vendors and fireworks to Princeton. Experience dance performances, crafts, snacks and more. The event draws visitors from across the state and is open to all.
More info here
Ocean County Italian Festival – Seaside Heights
Oct 11
The annual Italian Festival and Columbus Day Parade returns to Seaside Heights. Approximately 30 food vendors line Grant Avenue, serving all your favorites: zeppole, cannoli, sausage and peppers, and more Italian-American classics. Additionally, enjoy live music, shopping and family activities throughout the weekend, leading up to Sunday’s parade.
More info here
South Toms River Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival – Toms River
Oct 11
This waterfront lineup at Mathis Plaza features more than 30 vendors serving everything from seafood and pizza to Latin favorites and slow-cooked barbecue. Local breweries will be pouring craft beer all day long as bands play by the river. The event runs all afternoon and into the evening.
More info here
Fall Harvest & Wine Festival – Stafford Township
Oct 11 – Oct 12
Nine New Jersey wineries gather for tastings and live music, turning Manahawkin Lake Park and Heritage Park into a wine lover’s destination. Visitors can sample vintages from vineyards across the state, including Tomasello, Valenzano and Wagonhouse. Enjoy bites from local food trucks and vendors. It’s one of the shore’s most popular fall events.
More info here
Be sure to check all info before attending!
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.