Hot air balloons, Renaissance knights, pride celebrations, and 70+ independent bookstores—New Jersey has a lot going on this weekend.
Warren County Hot Air Balloons, Arts & Crafts Festival
Head to Warren Community College for one of New Jersey’s most visually stunning summer festivals.
This two-day event features hot air balloon displays, tethered rides (weather permitting), live entertainment, arts and crafts vendors, food trucks, and family activities. Evening balloon glows create a magical backdrop as the sun sets over Warren County.
From drone demonstrations to car shows and live music, there’s something happening around every corner.
Click HERE for tickets and more information.
New Jersey Bookstore Crawl – Statewide

Book lovers can spend the weekend exploring more than 70 independent bookstores across New Jersey during the annual New Jersey Bookstore Crawl.
Visit participating shops, collect stamps, discover hidden gems, and enter to win prizes while supporting local businesses. Many stores are also hosting author events, giveaways, and special weekend-only activities.
It’s the perfect excuse to build your own literary road trip across the state.
For more information click HERE.
Jersey Pride – Asbury Park

Asbury Park turns into the heart of New Jersey Pride this Sunday with one of the largest LGBTQ+ celebrations in the Northeast.
The day kicks off with a colorful parade through downtown, followed by a waterfront festival featuring live performances, vendors, community organizations, and family-friendly activities. With the ocean as a backdrop and thousands of attendees, it’s one of the most energetic and meaningful events of the weekend.
Click HERE for parade and rally information.
Hungarian Festival – New Brunswick

Somerset Street transforms into “Little Hungary” for the annual Hungarian Festival, celebrating culture, food, music, and heritage.
Enjoy authentic Hungarian dishes, traditional folk dancing, live music, artisan vendors, and cultural exhibits throughout the day. It’s a vibrant, family-friendly celebration that brings international flavor right to central New Jersey.
Click HERE for ceremony start time and more information.
New Jersey Renaissance Faire – Burlington County Fairgrounds

Step into another world at the New Jersey Renaissance Faire, where knights, nobles, pirates, and performers bring a medieval village to life.
This year’s storyline is inspired by The Three Musketeers, complete with sword fights, jousting tournaments, comedy acts, music, artisan markets, and immersive entertainment throughout the grounds. Costumes are encouraged—and part of the fun.
It’s one of the most interactive and theatrical festivals of the season.
Click HERE for tickets and information.
Antonietta LaVecchia has been a small business advocate for over two decades and has made it a mission to get communities to shop small and support local.
- Antonietta La Vecchia
