From mid-September to November 2024, New Jersey offers a variety of fall festivals celebrating harvest time and bringing communities together. These events showcase the season’s essence through culture, tradition, and entertainment.
At Happy Day Farm in Manalapan, families can enjoy over 35 activities, including a corn maze, pig races, and pumpkin picking in “Pumpkinville.” Cape May Brewing Co. hosts an Oktoberfest featuring seasonal brews, live music, and a steinholding relay race.
Heaven Hill Farm in Vernon offers a nearly two-month-long fall festival, including events like the Canine Stars Stunt Dog Show and a themed corn maze celebrating its 40th anniversary. In Highlands, New Jersey, Oktoberfest on September 14, 2024, features authentic German food, beer, and music.
These events highlight the best of New Jersey’s fall offerings, providing opportunities to enjoy the season with friends and family. Here’s a list of the 15 top New Jersey fall festivals for 2024.
1. Happy Day Farm Fall Festival
- Location: Manalapan, NJ
- Date: September 14 – November 3, 2024
- Attendees: Approximately 15,000
- Theme: Family Fun & Farm Experience
The Happy Day Farm Fall Festival offers over 35 activities, including a corn maze, pig races, and pumpkin picking in Pumpkinville. Located in Manalapan, it is a perfect fall day out for families. The festival provides a wide range of engaging activities for visitors of all ages.
2. Great Pumpkin Festival
- Location: Vernon Township, NJ
- Date: September 14 to October 31, 2024
- Attendees: Approximately 20,000
- Theme: Family Fun & Seasonal Celebration
The Great Pumpkin Festival at Heaven Hill Farm spans nearly two months and is filled with fun activities. From a pumpkin patch and corn maze to carnival rides and arts & crafts, it offers something for everyone. Free parking adds to the convenience of this popular event.
3. New Jersey Tomato Festival
- Location: TBD
- Date: August 10, 2024
- Attendees: Approximately 5,000
- Theme: Food & Agriculture
Celebrating the iconic Jersey tomato, the New Jersey Tomato Festival is a haven for foodies and garden enthusiasts. The festival features tastings of various tomato varieties, showcasing the rich flavors that make Jersey tomatoes famous.
Cooking demonstrations by local chefs offer tips on incorporating tomatoes into dishes, from fresh salads to gourmet sauces. Tomato-themed contests, such as the best salsa competition, engage visitors in culinary fun.
This event highlights the importance of local agriculture and supports sustainable farming practices, making it both an enjoyable and educational experience.
4. Fall Harvest Festival at Heaven Hill Farm
- Location: Vernon, NJ
- Date: Weekends from September 14 – November 3, 2024
- Attendees: Approximately 50,000 over the course of the festival
- Theme: Family Fun & Agriculture
The Fall Harvest Festival at Heaven Hill Farm is a celebration of the harvest season, offering a range of activities for the whole family. Visitors can test their aim with apple cannons, explore the expansive corn maze, and enjoy the thrill of pedal carts.
Pumpkin picking is a highlight, with a variety of sizes and shapes to choose from. The gem mining experience is a unique feature, where kids can pan for gemstones and fossils.
The festival’s lively atmosphere is reminiscent of the vibrant energy found at live music venues in Brigantine, especially when local bands take the stage.
The festival also includes live music, delicious food options, and craft vendors, making it a vibrant community event.
5. Festival of the Sea
- Location: Point Pleasant Beach, NJ
- Date: September 21, 2024
- Attendees: Approximately 30,000
- Theme: Food & Maritime Heritage
Set along the picturesque shores of Point Pleasant Beach, the Festival of the Sea celebrates New Jersey’s rich maritime culture. Visitors can indulge in a variety of seafood dishes, from fresh clam chowder to succulent lobster rolls.
Boat-building demonstrations offer a glimpse into traditional craftsmanship, while maritime exhibits highlight the state’s nautical history.
Live music and entertainment add to the festive atmosphere, making it a favorite destination for families, food lovers, and history enthusiasts alike.
The sound of waves and the salty sea air create a perfect backdrop for this beloved annual event.
6. Exit Zero Jazz Festival
- Location: Cape May, NJ
- Date: October 25-27 2024
- Attendees: Approximately 10,000
- Theme: Music & Arts
Cape May transforms into a jazz lover’s paradise during the Exit Zero Jazz Festival. With performances by world-renowned jazz artists and emerging talents, the festival offers an intimate musical experience.
Venues range from cozy club settings to outdoor stages with views of the Victorian architecture Cape May is known for.
The festival’s relaxed ambiance allows visitors to stroll through the charming town, enjoying both the music and the scenic beauty. Food and drink vendors offer local delicacies, making this festival a celebration of both music and Cape May’s unique cultural charm.
7. Jersey Eats: A Taste of New Jersey
- Location: Meadowlands Expo Center, Secaucus, NJ
- Date: October 26, 2024
- Attendees: Approximately 15,000
- Theme: Food & Beverage
Jersey Eats is a celebration of New Jersey’s culinary diversity, featuring a wide range of food vendors under one roof at the Meadowlands Expo Center. Attendees can sample dishes that showcase the state’s cultural influences, from Italian to Latin American cuisine.
Cooking demonstrations by local chefs provide culinary insights and inspiration. Visitors can also enjoy a selection of local craft beers and wines, making it a perfect event for food and drink enthusiasts. The festival offers a taste of New Jersey’s best flavors, making it a must-attend for food lovers.
8. Medford Oktoberfest
- Location: Medford, NJ
- Date: September 20, 2024
- Attendees: Approximately 10,000
- Theme: Food & Beverage
Medford Oktoberfest brings the spirit of Bavaria to New Jersey with a celebration of German traditions. Visitors can savor traditional Bavarian cuisine, including pretzels, bratwurst, and strudel. Locally brewed craft beers provide a taste of the region’s brewing excellence.
The festival is lively with oompah bands and folk dances, offering an authentic Oktoberfest experience. Medford’s small-town charm enhances the atmosphere, making it a welcoming event for both locals and visitors. Family-friendly activities and games ensure that everyone, from the youngest to the oldest, can enjoy the festivities.
9. Arc of Warren County Food Truck Fest
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- Location: Warren County, NJ
- Date: June 1st
- Attendees: Approximately 5,000
- Theme: Food & Family Fun
The Arc of Warren County Food Truck Fest combines great food with community spirit. A variety of food trucks offer gourmet options, including burgers, vegan dishes, and sweet treats. The festival also features family-friendly activities, such as face painting and live entertainment, making it a fun day out for all ages.
Proceeds from the event support local initiatives, adding a sense of purpose and community involvement to the festivities. This festival is perfect for those who enjoy good food, fun activities, and supporting a worthy cause.
10. Peters Valley Craft Fair
- Location: Layton, NJ
- Date: September 24-25, 2024
- Attendees: Approximately 4,000
- Theme: Arts & Crafts
The Peters Valley Craft Fair showcases the work of skilled artisans in a picturesque setting. Visitors can browse a variety of high-quality handmade goods, including pottery, textiles, and jewelry. Demonstrations and workshops provide insight into traditional crafts and modern techniques, making it an educational experience for those interested in the arts.
The fair’s location in Layton, surrounded by natural beauty, adds to the charm of the event. It’s a perfect destination for those looking to find unique handmade items and learn more about the creative process.
11. Cranberry Festival: Art & Maker on Farnsworth
- Location: Bordentown City, NJ
- Date: October 5-6, 2024
- Attendees: Approximately 10,000
- Theme: Arts & Crafts
Set in historic Bordentown City, the Cranberry Festival celebrates New Jersey’s artistic community. Over 100 artisans and crafters display a wide range of products, including fine art, handcrafted jewelry, and unique home decor.
The festival’s lively atmosphere is enhanced by live entertainment and delicious food options, making it a well-rounded experience for visitors.
The quaint streets of Bordentown provide a charming backdrop, inviting attendees to explore both the art displays and the town’s rich history.
It’s an ideal destination for art lovers looking to discover new talent and unique handmade items.
12. Smithville’s Artwalk
- Location: Smithville, NJ
- Date: September 14
- Attendees: Approximately 8,000
- Theme: Arts & Crafts
Smithville’s Artwalk transforms the historic village into an open-air gallery, showcasing the work of local artists. As visitors stroll through the charming streets, they can admire a variety of art forms, from paintings and sculptures to photography and ceramics.
The event also features live music performances and food stalls, creating a festive and cultural atmosphere. The combination of art, music, and the historic setting makes Smithville’s Artwalk a favorite event for both locals and visitors seeking a vibrant and engaging cultural experience.
13. Autumn Lights Festival
- Location: West Milford, NJ
- Date: September 27-29, 2024
- Attendees: Approximately 12,000
- Theme: Community & Entertainment
The Autumn Lights Festival in West Milford is a vibrant community event that lights up Sussex County. With its spectacular visuals and thrilling activities, it is perfect for families, couples, and fans of Halloween spirit. The festival offers a variety of entertainment options, making it a memorable experience.
14. Elmer Harvest Day Festival
- Location: Elmer, NJ
- Date: October 5th
- Attendees: Approximately 3,000
- Theme: Community & Agriculture
Elmer Harvest Day Festival is a celebration of local agriculture and community spirit. Featuring local produce stands, handmade crafts, and live entertainment, it provides a true small-town fall experience. The festival brings the community together, offering activities for all ages.
15. Cape May Brewing Co.’s Pick of the Batch Fall Festival
- Location: Cape May, NJ
- Date: October 7
- Attendees: Approximately 6,000
- Theme: Food & Beverage
Cape May Brewing Co.’s Pick of the Batch Fall Festival is an annual celebration of seasonal brews and fall festivities.
Visitors can sample a variety of craft beers, including special seasonal releases. The festival features live music performances, creating a lively and entertaining atmosphere.
A highlight of the event is the steinholding relay race, which adds a fun and competitive element to the day.
Attendees can also enjoy food vendors offering autumnal treats and explore the scenic grounds of Cape May Brewing Co., making it a favorite fall destination for beer lovers and festival-goers.