Things to Do in November NJ: 2025 Holiday Festivals, Markets, and More

NJ November Things to do
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Top Things to Do in November NJ: 2025 guide to fun festivals, family fun, and Thanksgiving weekend activities

November is a prime time in the fall season to enjoy New Jersey’s outdoor fun, seasonal festivals, and family fun. Across the state, you can find harvest fairs, art shows, holiday kickoffs, and beloved Thanksgiving weekend traditions. Searching for things to do in November NJ near me? These options fill the calendar with activities for every age.

If you are planning Thanksgiving weekend in NJ, use this guide to map out can’t-miss events. It is made for locals and visitors who want to savor fall before winter arrives.

Fall Season Festivals and Seasonal Markets

November feels festive in towns across New Jersey. Local markets, community celebrations, and creative pop-ups offer color, crafts, and music. Outdoor fun is still on the table, so you can catch the last crisp weekends with family and friends. From harvest parties to cultural gatherings, there is no shortage of what's happening in NJ November events.

Diggerfest Fall Festival, West Berlin

Diggerland USA hosts Diggerfest through late November, a favorite for families with young kids. Expect fall décor, hayrides, pumpkin decorating, live music, games, a hay maze, and zoo visits at the petting zoo. The parade of construction vehicles is a huge hit. Look for pre-purchase discounts and age-based ticket deals. Details and tickets are on the official Diggerfest page: https://diggerlandusa.com/special-events/fall-festival/

Día de los Muertos Celebration, Jersey City

Riverview Park comes alive on November 2 with a vibrant Day of the Dead celebration. The event honors loved ones and invites the community to enjoy traditional dance, face painting, food, and ofrendas created by local artists and families. Kids can make paper marigolds or sugar skull crafts. It is free and family friendly. See updates from Riverview Farmers Market: https://riverviewfarmersmarket.org/event/day-of-the-dead-celebration-3/

Family Fun: Kid-Friendly Adventures and Unique Experiences

November brings a bounty of family fun in the fall season, perfect for kids of all ages from toddlers to teens and grandparents in New Jersey. From farm days to arts fairs and easy hikes, you'll find plenty of NJ things to do in November near me that build new traditions.

Pumpkin Patches, Corn Mazes, and Farm Days

Many farms stay open into early November during the fall season for late pumpkin picking and corn mazes. These farm activities include hayrides, animal encounters, and warm cider.

Try these family favorites:

  • Pumpkin picking for late fall porch décor or baking
  • Corn mazes with easy routes and tougher turns
  • Petting zoos with goats, sheep, or alpacas
  • Scenic hayrides with the last of the fall color

Looking for a standout fall festival? Check the Great Pumpkin Festival in Vernon: https://heavenhillfarm.com/our-events/great-pumpkin-festival/. As an alternative recommendation, Norz Hill Farm offers similar engaging experiences.

Arts and Crafts Fairs: Jersey Makes and More

Creative families love November’s arts markets. Jersey Makes in Morris Plains showcases handmade goods, artist demos, and easy projects for kids. Many events are free, and they are perfect for early holiday shopping. Event info: https://morristourism.org/events/jersey-makes-fall-arts-craft-fair-november-2024/

Outdoor Hikes and Fall-Themed Attractions

November offers great outdoor activities in parks and trails without the summer crowds. Many spots host guided walks, scavenger hunts, and simple “Fall Foliage” hikes.

Top outdoor picks:

  • Guided nature walks exploring state parks nature
  • Easy family hikes on stroller-friendly paths
  • Fall-themed playgrounds, plus outdoor storytime events hosted by libraries

For trail ideas, see Best Fall Foliage Hikes in New Jersey: https://www.wanderingincreativity.com/post/the-best-hikes-for-fall-foliage

Holiday Light Shows and Thanksgiving Weekend Activities

Late November in New Jersey brings glowing lights, town celebrations, and seasonal markets. These events work for families, couples, and groups of friends. You will find plenty of whats happening in nj november events that turn chilly nights into bright memories.

Holiday Light Shows Across NJ

These light shows are classic November favorites and many start before Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving Weekend: Tree Lightings and Santa Arrivals

Thanksgiving weekend brings small-town charm and exciting Thanksgiving events across the state. Look for Thanksgiving Day Parades, tree lightings, and Santa visits. These are perfect holiday break ideas for families and friends.

Thanksgiving Weekend Markets and Auctions

November is a great month for local shopping and one-of-a-kind finds.

No matter where you go, these Thanksgiving weekend activities deliver plenty of sparkle and seasonal cheer.

More Ways to Enjoy November in New Jersey

Still building your list of things to do in New Jersey this November near me? For great family staycation ideas, here are more suggestions to keep kids busy November that fit any schedule—even late outdoor opportunities for November school holidays, like a favorite corn maze before the weather turns too chilly.

Stay Cozy Indoors: Bowling, Playgrounds, and Water Parks

Bowling alleys offer family lanes and glow nights. Kids can burn energy at indoor playgrounds with climbing zones, trampolines, mini golf, and arcades, or try ice skating rinks for some fun on the ice. A must-visit indoor destination is the Adventure Aquarium in Camden, full of marine wonders. For a warm escape at an indoor water park, visit DreamWorks Water Park in East Rutherford or Sahara Sam’s Oasis in West Berlin for slides, lazy rivers, and splash areas.

Farmers Markets, Arts Fairs, and Bingo Nights

Late fall season markets carry fresh produce, baked goods, and holiday gifts—perfect options for families with kids. Indoor craft shows feature jewelry, pottery, and art by local makers. Community bingo nights add a friendly twist to weeknights, with low-cost fun and small prizes.

Flea Markets at Historic Villages

Treasure hunters love the Historic Village at Allaire in Wall Township. The fall flea market offers vintage finds, décor, collectibles, and stocking stuffers. Kids 10 and under are free, and prices are reasonable. Check dates on Allaire’s events calendar: https://allairevillage.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2025-Calendar-of-Events-1.pdf

Many towns host their own open-air or indoor flea markets in November, so keep an eye on local listings.

Honor Veterans Day with Local Ceremonies

Communities across NJ host Veterans Day ceremonies, parades, and breakfasts to honor service members. Sea Isle City holds an annual ceremony and related events. See the city’s schedule here: https://visitsicnj.com/2025-calendar/veterans-day-ceremony

Conclusion

New Jersey fills November, the heart of the fall season, with variety. You can catch fall markets, family parades, brilliant light shows, and Thanksgiving weekend traditions. Kids and adults share the fun, from pumpkin patches to tree lightings, arts fairs to cozy indoor play.

If you are building a list of what's happening in NJ November events, start here and add your favorites. Invite friends, plan your route, and enjoy the best of the Garden State all month long.

November in New Jersey: FAQ for the Top Things to Do

What indoor activities make sense if it’s cold or rainy?

  • Liberty Science Center, Newark Museum of Art, and Morris Museum.
  • Devils hockey at Prudential Center, or college hoops at Rutgers.
  • Casinos, outlet shopping, and concerts in Atlantic City.
  • Breweries and wineries with tastings, like in Cape May and Hammonton.

Is Cape May worth visiting in November?

Yes. It’s quieter, prices are lower, and birds are still moving along the coast. Climb the lighthouse on clear days, visit wineries, and enjoy the historic district without summer crowds. Pack layers and a windproof jacket.

Where can I see great late fall foliage?

Early November is best in North Jersey. Try the Skylands region, Norvin Green State Forest, and Palisades Interstate Park. By mid to late month, look for color in central and coastal areas, or focus on evergreens and river views.

What’s the weather like in November?

Expect highs near 45 to 55 F, cooler in the north and at night. It can feel colder by the water. Daylight is short, with sunset near 4:35 to 4:45 pm by late month. Bring a warm layer, hat, gloves, and waterproof shoes.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

Often. Reserve time slots for popular light shows, Devils games, and some museums. Thanksgiving week fills fast. Book hotels and special dinners early if you plan to travel that weekend.

How can I get around without a car?

Use NJ Transit trains for Jersey City, Newark, Hoboken, Princeton, and the Shore. Buses reach Paterson Great Falls, Grounds For Sculpture, and many malls. Rideshares fill gaps for parks and trailheads. Always check weekend schedules.

What are good photo spots in November?

  • Paterson Great Falls after rain or snow flurries.
  • Sunrise at Sandy Hook and sunset at Cape May Point.
  • Palisades overlooks for Hudson River views.
  • Grounds For Sculpture for art and texture in soft light.
  • Historic Smithville’s lake lights at night.

Any tips for a budget-friendly trip?

Use weekday rates for hotels and attractions. Many parks, lighthouses grounds, and towns are free to enter. Museum tickets often run 10 to 20 dollars. Pack a thermos and picnic, then splurge on one memorable meal.

What should I wear and pack?

Wear layers, a warm coat, and waterproof boots. Add a hat, gloves, and a scarf. Pack a small flashlight for early sunsets, a phone power bank, and hand warmers for night light shows.