2026 NJ Festivals for Families:
Your Local Guide to Family Fun
Things to Do with Kids in NJ
A Guide to NJ Festivals for Families: What to Know
New Jersey packs in family fun all year. You can hit the beach, stroll a boardwalk, and grab snacks in one afternoon. Kids bounce from skee-ball to soft serve, while parents enjoy the throwback boardwalk smells, hello funnel cake.
Street fairs, cultural days, art shows, food fests, and live music fill the calendar. Expect bounce houses, parades, fireworks, scavenger hunts, and sensory-friendly options. From trails and farms to pumpkin patches and holiday lights, you will find plenty of nj kids events near me to keep everyone happy.
Key Takeaways
- New Jersey offers family-friendly festivals and events throughout 2026, including parades, food festivals, fairs, train rides, and seasonal celebrations.
- Many 2026 NJ family events are free or low-cost, and several list kid perks like inflatables, rides, face painting, scavenger hunts, and fireworks.
- The guide organizes events by region (North Jersey, Central Jersey, South Jersey) and month, helping families plan weekends and school-break outings.
- Several events highlight specific family fit, such as toddler-friendly Easter activities, boardwalk parades, zoo events, and hands-on nature festivals.
- Each listing includes key trip-planning details (date, location, cost, and "best for"), making it easy to compare options quickly.
Northern NJ Festivals and Family Events
North Jersey Festivals in March 2026
Morristown’s Morris County St. Patrick’s Day Parade
March 14, 2026
Morristown, NJ
One of New Jersey's most spirited early spring traditions, blending historic charm with a lively, family friendly celebration. Set against Morristown's walkable downtown, the parade features pipe bands, community groups, first responders, and generations old Irish organizations that give the event its warm, hometown feel.
Cost: Free
Best for: Families who want an easy, festive day out, locals and history lovers who enjoy Morristown's rich heritage.
The Sparta Special Olympics Vendor and Craft Fair
March 21, 2026
Sparta, NJ
This event
brings together local makers, community groups, and families for a cheerful spring marketplace that directly supports Special Olympics athletes. Visitors can browse handmade crafts, seasonal décor, and unique gifts while enjoying a warm, inclusive atmosphere that celebrates community spirit.
Cost:
Free admission, donations are welcome
Best for: Families looking for a meaningful outing, shoppers who love supporting local artisans, and anyone who wants to contribute to programs that empower athletes of all abilities.
Jersey City Pizza Fest
March 28, 2026
Jersey City, NJ
It's a delicious celebration of the area's top pizzerias, bringing together classic slices, creative pies, and plenty of local flavor in one lively indoor setting. It's a fun, casual event.
Cost: General Admission $43.40, VIP Admission $69.90, General Admission (child12 and under ) $22.20
Best for:
Families, pizza loving couples, and groups of friends looking for an easy night out filled with great food and upbeat community vibes.
North Jersey Festivals in April 2026
Delaware River Railroad Easter Bunny Train Ride and egg hunt
April 4th, 5th, 2026
Phillipsburg, NJ
Offers a charming vintage train journey along the Delaware River plus a lively Easter Egg Hunt at the Carpentersville stop. Kids meet the Easter Bunny on board, enjoy playful entertainment, and explore a scenic spring setting that feels tailor made for family traditions.
Best for: families with young children, multigenerational outings, and anyone who loves nostalgic holiday experiences.
Cost: $14.00 Child, $20.00 Adult and Lap Sitter (2 and under) $4.00
NYC Harbor Easter Brunch Cruise
April 5th, 2026
departing Weehawken, NJ
This special holiday sailing departing Lincoln Harbor Marina in Weehawken, blends delicious dining, skyline sightseeing, and a relaxed, celebratory atmosphere perfect for families and couples alike. The cruise typically lasts 2–3 hours, gliding along the Hudson and East Rivers with sweeping views of the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty.
Guests enjoy front row views of New York Harbor's most iconic landmarks—an Easter backdrop you simply can't recreate on land. Instead of the usual crowded restaurants, guests enjoy a peaceful, spacious dining room with panoramic windows and outdoor decks—ideal for springtime sightseeing.
Best For: Families seeking an easy, no stress Easter outing, couples looking for a scenic holiday date, and groups who want a memorable way to celebrate without the restaurant crowds.
Cost: Adults: $116.00. Adult Ticket with Guaranteed Window Table Window $141.00. Child (Ages 4-12) $101.00. Kids Free (Ages 3 and under)
Hoboken Mutzfest
April 26, 2026
Hoboken, NJ
This event features an afternoon packed with fresh mozzarella tastings, local vendors, live music, and family friendly activities under the 14th Street Viaduct.
Best for: Food lovers, families, and anyone who appreciates Hoboken's rich Italian American deli culture.
Cost: General Admission 1pm-5pm $55.20
Paramus Food Truck Festival
Sunday, April 26, 2026: 11am until 7pm
Paramus Park Mall-North,
Paramus, NJ
Cost: $5, Kids under 5 FREE
The event Kicks Off The Food Truck Season with Flavors & Fun & a Feast for the senses! Expect food, beer, Musi, and kids events. Its a fun filled family day with 20+ Gourmet Food Trucks, music by DJ Ray Colon, pony rides, petting zoo, knockerball, mini golf, inflatables, face painting, sand art, vendors & a beer, sangria & margarita bar.
Stirling Spring Street Fair & Food Truck Fest
April 26, 2026
Long Hill, NJ
This event features a lively outdoor celebration perfect for families, food lovers, and anyone who enjoys browsing artisan vendors and enjoying live entertainment. Visitors can expect a full day of shopping, kids’ rides and games, music, and a wide variety of festival foods and gourmet food trucks
Best for: Parents with young children and community minded adults looking for a fun day out.
Cost: Free, making it an easy and budget friendly outing for all ages
Wild Earth Fest
April 26, 2026
Elizabeth, NJ
It's a lively outdoor celebration with live animal demonstrations, hands on kids' activities, nature education, food, music, and more.
Best for: Families, nature lovers, and anyone curious about wildlife and eco friendly living.
Cost: $5 per person, and children 6 and under attend for free, making it an accessible and engaging spring outing for the whole community.
North Jersey Festivals in May 2026
Chester Food Truck and Music Festival
Saturday, May 2, 2026; 11am - 7pm
Muncipal Field,
Chester, NJ
The Food Trucks are rolling into Chester Borough! It's a fun filled family day! 18 Gourmet Food Trucks, Live Music from 3 bands, beer, sangria & margarita garden, kids activities, face painting, inflatables, vendors & more! Bring your friends, family, appetite, lawn chairs, pups and blankets. Event is a Benefit for the Chester First Aid Squad & The Chester/Mendham Food Pantry
Cost: Free.
They are also asking all attendees to bring a non-perishable canned or boxed item to help support the food pantry. Please help those less fortunate.
Bayonne Food Truck Festival
Saturday, May 9th, 2026; 12pm - 7pm
19th-22nd St. Avenue E,
Bayonne, NJ
Cost: Free
A family friendly event featuring a fun day with drinks, a beer & wine garden, live bands, face painting, and of course 30+ food trucks.
Country Jamboree Festival
Saturday May 16, 2026
; 11am-8pm
Firemans Field,
144 Beach Street,
Rockaway, NJ
Cost: $5, children under 5 free.
This fun filled event features a day filled with live music, delicious food, and good ol' country fun. Join in for a family for a day of line dancing, BBQ, and great music from local country bands. Don't forget to wear your best cowboy boots and hats! This is a can't-miss event for all country music lovers. There will be live music by Tennessee Honey.
North Jersey Festivals in June 2026
12th Annual Tri-County Fair
June 18th until June 21st, 2026
Christ Church Rockaway, 140 Green Pond Rd, Rockaway, NJ
Cost: Free, $5 parking
This annual family event features carnival rides, family entertainment, family friendly music, a spectacular drone light show, monster truck rides, Arestov's Acrobatic Extravaganz, and a fireworks display on Friday evening.
NJ Air Show
Father's Day Weekend
June 19, 20, 21, 2026
Greenwood Lake Airport,
126 Airport Rd,
West Milford, NJ
This popular Father's Day weekend event features
a day into night airshow with some of the world's top aerial acrobats. Aerial acrobatic performers will be showcasing their daredevil skills during night airshow. Each night Show will conclude with a pyro musical with booming fireworks and laser show. Food options will be available. For general admission, bring a folding chair or blanket
Cost:
$9.00, Adult (Ages13-64). Senior (65+)/ Military Veteran $44.00. Child (Ages 4-12) $39.00
Wyckoff Street Festival
June 27, 2026
Main Street, Wyckoff, NJ
A full day with live music, games, rides, food vendors, and fireworks just after sunset.
Cost: Free.
Suggest donations to Wyckoff Fire Dept/EMS via contributions payable through Paypal or Venmo @wyckofffireworks
North Jersey Festivals in July 2026
Randolph Township 50th Annual Freedom Festival
July 9, 10, 11, 2026; 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m
County College of Morris,
214 Center Grove Road,
Randolph, NJ
This three-day festival features a celebration of 50 years of community spirit with fireworks, food, and fun! This extra-special edition includes live entertainment, games, and patriotic flair. Fireworks will be at 9:45 PM on July 11, 2026
The Saturday evening finale fireworks show with synchronized music by DJ, at 9:45 pm.
Cost: Free, Parking $5
North Jersey Festivals in August 2026
Mount Olive Food Truck & Fireworks Festival
August 22, 2026: 4pm-10pm
Turkey Brook Park, Budd Lake, NJ
Enjoy 18+ food trucks, local vendors, live music, beer, and inflatables for the kids—all capped off with a spectacular fireworks show. From savory to sweet and family fun to evening vibes, there is truly something for everyone. Don't forget to bring blankets and lawn chairs for relaxing and fireworks viewing.
Cost: $10 Ages 18+, $5 – Ages 13–17, Ages 12 and under – FREE
Central NJ Festivals and Family Events
Central Jersey Festivals in March 2026
The Downtown Irish Festival in Toms River
March 14, 2026
Toms River, NJ
This event brings a lively burst of Celtic spirit to the Jersey Shore, filling the streets with traditional music, local vendors, Irish fare, and family-friendly entertainment. It’s a cheerful, easygoing celebration that invites visitors to wander, sample, and soak in the festive atmosphere.
Cost: Free
Best for: Families looking for a fun afternoon out, couples who enjoy cultural street festivals, and anyone who enjoys a Patrick’s classic community celebration.
Belmar - Lake Como St. Patrick's Day Parade
March 28, 2026
Belmar, NJ
One of the Jersey Shore’s most spirited season celebrations, blending oceanfront charm with big parade energy. Dozens of marching bands, community groups, first responders, and lively Irish step dancers fill Main Street with music and color, creating a festive March celebration along the coast.
Cost: Free
Best for: Families, parade goers who love a classic shore town vibe, and anyone looking to enjoy a high energy St. Patrick’s celebration before the season gets busy.
Central Jersey Festivals in April 2026
Jenkinson's Boardwalk Easter Parade
April 5th, 2026
Point Pleasant Beach, NJ
A charming mix of springtime flair, oceanfront views, and family friendly fun. Kids can enter age group categories, while adults join in with bonnets, floats, and creative costumes, all competing for prizes from Jenkinson's and local businesses. Registration is free and runs from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in front of Joey Tomato's.
Best for: Families with young children, parents who love classic boardwalk traditions, and anyone who enjoys festive, low pressure holiday fun by the beach.
Cost: Free
Sustainable Princeton Earth Day Celebration
April 19, 2026
Princeton, NJ
This is a lively, family friendly event perfect for anyone who enjoys eco focused activities, community gatherings, and hands on learning about sustainable living. Held at the Morven Museum & Garden, the celebration features Earth friendly fun for all ages.
Best for: Families, local residents, and anyone curious about greener lifestyle choices.
Cost: Free
Rutgers Day
April 25th, 2026
New Brunswick, NJ
This annual event is a lively, family friendly celebration packed with hands on activities, exhibits, live entertainment, and Rutgers University campuswide programs that showcase the spirit of the university.
Best for: Families, prospective students, alumni, and community members looking for an engaging day outdoors.
Cost: Free.
Central Jersey Festivals in May 2026
5th Annual Highlands Fiesta de Mayo
May 2, 2026: Noon until 5pm
Huddy Park, 329 Bay Ave., Highlands, NJ
This family event features festivals with a Margarita Contest where local restaurants will be competing for the Best Margarita in Highlands! Participants will sample delicious 6oz. Margaritas and vote for their favorite! The fee includes free samplings and discounted food and drink specials at local eateries and pubs, as well as specials at many retail establishments. Live Mariachi music will be playing at the participating restaurants to add an authentic Mexican flair to the event!
Cost: $45.00
New Jersey's Empanada Food Festival & Car Show
May 2, 2026
Rustic Mall, Main Street, Manville, NJ
Get Ready for the Ultimate Latin Food Fest! Explore a variety of cuisines!- there will be Mexican, American and a few other food choices as well. Expect Empanada food trucks, car show, live music, Beer & Wine: Sip and enjoy, craft vendors, Adventure Zone for Kids of all ages- Face Painting, Henna Tattoos, Fun for all ages!
Cost:
$3.85 Advanced FASTPASS, $5 at the door. Kids 5 and under free
Asbury Park Vegan Food Festival
Saturday, Sunday, May 16, 17, 2026: Noon - 6PM (rain or shine)
Bradley Park,
101-199 5th Ave,
Asbury Park, NJ
Cost:
$19+. Kids 13 and under free.
This two-day celebration features a two-day celebration bringing together the state's finest vegan and plant-based food from local chefs, restaurants, food trucks, and product developers, as well as vegan lifestyle gear, cruelty-free fashion, live music, and an outdoor bar stocked with vegan cockatils and mocktails! This festival serves up everything from jackfruit tacos to desserts that could convert the most committed cheese-lover.
Central Jersey Festivals in July 2026
Ocean County Fair
July 15 until 19th, 2026
Robert J. Miller Airpark, Berkeley Township, NJ
This event features
a five day celebration of agriculture, entertainment, and local pride. You can expect something for everyone: 4-H showcases, live music, thrilling rides, food vendors, livestock displays, and hands-on activities for all ages.
Cost: Free
Southern NJ Festivals and Family Events
Southern Jersey Festivals in March 2026
Nerd Force Fan Fest Episode 3
Sunday, March 15, 2026
Rowan University, 201 Mullica Hill Rd, Glassboro, NJ
This event will be transforming Rowan University into a vibrant hub of comics, cosplay, gaming, and pop culture celebration. This year’s installment promises an even bigger lineup of special guests, interactive panels, indie creators, and handson experiences designed to delight fans of every universe—from superheroes and sci-fi to anime, tabletop adventures, and retro gaming. With its lively marketplace, family friendly activities, and a community atmosphere that encourages creativity and connection, Episode 3 is shaping up to be a standout spring gathering for fans across New Jersey and beyond.
Cost: $10, Kids 12 and under Free with paying Adult.
Southern Jersey Festivals in April 2026
Cape May County Park and Zoo Easter Eggstravaganza
April 3rd, 4th, 5th, 2026
Cape May Court House, NJ
The Easter EggstravaganZoo brings three days of springtime fun, transforming the zoo into a festive celebration filled with themed activities, character meet and greets, and plenty of photo worthy moments for families. Kids can enjoy egg hunts, crafts, and playful surprises while exploring one of New Jersey’s most beloved free zoos.
Best for: Families with young children, animal lovers, and anyone looking for a budget‑friendly holiday outing
Cost: Free admission (donations appreciated)
The Renaissance Faire
April 11, 12, 2026
Smithville, NJ
The Renaissance Faire transforms the Village Greene into a lively Shire filled with knights, jesters, sword‑fighting shows, music, dance, and artisan vendors—an easygoing, family friendly escape into the English Renaissance.
Best for: Families, history lovers, casual festival goers, and anyone who enjoys playful, theatrical entertainment.
Cost: Free
ACUA Earth Day Festival
April 26. 2026
Egg Harbor Township, NJ
This event features a lively, family friendly celebration packed with environmental exhibits, hands on activities, live entertainment, and more than 150 vendors and crafters.
Best for: Families, eco enthusiasts, educators, and anyone who enjoys community events with an environmental focus.
Cost: Free
Southern Jersey Festivals in September 2026
Pine Barren Makers Fall Fest
September 19th & 20th, 2026: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
3610 Nesco Rd.
Hammonton, NJ
This
family oriented fun for all ages Fest features food trucks, handcrafted vendors, kids activities, photo ops, and a scavenger hunt map on your way in to win a prize!
Cost:
$5, Free for kids under the age of 12. Parking is free
Frequently Asked Questions About 2026 NJ Family Festivals and Events
What are the best family festivals in New Jersey in spring 2026?
Spring highlights in this guide include Morristown's Morris County St. Patrick's Day Parade (March 14, 2026), Jersey City Pizza Fest (March 28, 2026), Delaware River Railroad Easter Bunny Train Ride and egg hunt (April 4 and 5, 2026), Jenkinson's Boardwalk Easter Parade (April 5, 2026), and Rutgers Day (April 25, 2026). Each event listing includes the date, town, cost, and what it's best for, so families can match the event to their kids' ages and interests.
Are there free NJ festivals for families in 2026?
Yes. The article lists many free events, including Morristown's Morris County St. Patrick's Day Parade, the Downtown Irish Festival in Toms River, Jenkinson's Boardwalk Easter Parade, Sustainable Princeton Earth Day Celebration, Rutgers Day, Ocean County Fair (free admission), and several food truck festivals with free entry (for example, Bayonne Food Truck Festival). Some events still have paid parking or optional donations, so it helps to check each listing's cost line.
Which NJ events have fireworks, drone shows, or big nighttime shows?
The guide includes several high-impact evening events, such as the 12th Annual Tri-County Fair (includes a drone light show and Friday fireworks), the NJ Air Show (night show with pyro musical and fireworks), Wyckoff Street Festival (fireworks after sunset), Randolph Township Freedom Festival (fireworks on July 11, 2026), and Mount Olive Food Truck and Fireworks Festival (fireworks included).
How is the article organized so I can find events near me?
Events are grouped by region (North Jersey, Central Jersey, South Jersey) and then by month, with each event shown as a short listing. To make it even easier, add quick-jump links at the top to each region and month (for example, North Jersey, March 2026), then keep each event formatted in a consistent template.
What details should I check before going with kids?
Use the listing fields to confirm date, exact location, start and end time, cost (including parking), and the "best for" note to gauge age fit. For events with special activities (like egg hunts, train rides, cruises, or fairs), confirm ticket rules and any child age cutoffs (for example, "kids 3 and under free" or child ticket age ranges).
