Fun Fall Harvest Festivals for NJ Families

As much as I love summer, I find myself looking forward to fall more and more every year. The cooler weather, crunching of leaves and pumpkin-flavored everything are all highlights of the season for me. And let’s not forget Halloween! New Jersey has many wonderful festivals for your family to enjoy this fall—grab the kids (and a jacket) and check out these autumn events coming to a town near you.
 

Crystal Springs Oktoberfest (Vernon, NJ)
Bring your appetite to Mountain Creek for this beloved festival—they’ll be serving German favorites such as bratwurst, potato pancakes and spaetzle, along with plenty of German beers. Traditional German music and dancing will take place on the main stage and there are plenty of activities for all ages. Check out the petting zoo, bouncy house, carnival rides, games and more! Anyone dressed in traditional Oktoberfest attire will receive free admission. For everyone else, admission is $5 for one-day pass and $7.50 for two-day pass. Preferred parking is $20. Saturday, September 22, 11am to 9pm and Sunday, September 23, 11am to 6pm.

Hometown Harvest Fair (Hightstown, NJ)
Celebrate the 10th anniversary of this Hightstown festival featuring arts & crafts, delicious food and live entertainment throughout the day. A special Children’s Area offers pony rides, a petting zoo, clowns and bouncy houses. And don’t miss the Chili Cook Off, Dragon Boat displays, model train exhibits and Ducky Derby race! FREE Admission. Saturday, October 6, 10am to 4pm.

New Jersey Botanical Garden Harvest Fest (Ringwood, NJ)
Visit the Botanical Garden for a fun-filled day in beautiful surroundings. The Fest includes hayrides, face painting, pumpkin painting, music and yummy food. You can also join a Garden Tour and even take home your own plants from their autumn plant sale. FREE Admission. Saturday & Sunday, October 6 & 7, 10am to 5pm.

Whippany Railway Museum Pumpkin Festival (Whippany, NJ)
All aboard the Pumpkinliner! Enjoy a 30-minute excursion along the Whippanong Trail on an antique caboose. Before or after your trip, visit the Pumpkin Marketplace Crafts Fair to check out local wares, railroad memorabilia and of course plenty of pumpkins. Train tickets must be purchased online by October 3. Fares are $13 for adults, $8 for children under 12 and free for infants on laps. Sunday, October 7, 12:30 to 5:30pm.

South Jersey Pumpkin Show (Woodstown, NJ)
If you love all things pumpkin, this is the place to be. Check out the biggest pumpkins you’ve ever seen at the Big Pumpkin Weigh Off, cheer on the finalists in the Little Miss Pumpkin Show Pageant and sample scrumptious treats at the Pumpkin Dessert Contest. Other activities include a doggy costume parade, live bands, hay rides and fall crafts for kids. FREE Admission. Parking is $5 per car. Friday, October 12, 4 to 9pm, Saturday & Sunday, October 13 & 14, 10am to 7pm.

Allentown Fall Festival (Allentown, NJ)

This annual festival takes place in the charming and historic village of Allentown. Highlights include local artisans, crafters and food vendors, as well as live music and dance performances. Don’t forget to visit their classic car show and check out the petting zoo with the kiddies. FREE Admission. Saturday & Sunday, October 13 & 14, 9am to 5pm.

Pumpkin Festival (Cape May, NJ)

Head to historic Cold Spring Village and enjoy this family-friendly fall celebration. From great food to music, games and pumpkin painting, there’s something for everyone. The Halloween parade starts at noon—you won’t want to miss it! FREE Admission. Donations of canned goods are requested. Saturday, October 20, 10am to 4:30pm.

Chatsworth Cranberry Festival (Chatsworth, NJ)

Did you know New Jersey’s cranberry harvest is the third largest in the U.S.? Celebrate all things cranberry at this festival featuring local specialties, over 150 arts & crafts vendors, live music, antique cars and wolves from nearby Howling Woods Farm. Breakfast will also be served each morning from 6-11am at the Chatsworth Volunteer Firehouse. FREE Admission. $5 donation to park in their “highly recommended” parking area. Saturday & Sunday, October 20 & 21, 9am to 4pm.

Goblins in the Garden Family Festival (Camden, NJ)

Calling all ghosts and goblins! The Camden Children’s Garden invites you to join in their Halloween celebration—be sure to wear your costumes. Activities include a Haunted Train Ride, fortune telling and trick or treating during the Costume Parade. Visit the Creepy concession stand for special Halloween treats. Admission is $6 per person, free for kids 2 & under. Saturday & Sunday, October 27 & 28, 1 to 4pm.