Feeling Festive: Must-Attend February 2026 Events in New Jersey 

Embrace the Winter Charm

As one of the coldest months of the year, February is perfect for cozy indoor events and thrilling outdoor adventures. For those who love winter sports, New Jersey boasts fantastic opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. If you prefer to stay warm, enjoy theater performances, food festivals, and museum exhibits happening throughout the state.

Celebrate Love and History

February is also a time for celebration—whether it’s a romantic Valentine’s Day outing or a long Presidents Day weekend filled with historical tours and family-friendly events. In the U.S., Presidents Day is observed on the third Monday of February, making it a great opportunity to explore New Jersey’s rich history and heritage.

So gather your friends and family, bundle up, and mark your calendars—February in New Jersey is filled with can’t-miss events and unforgettable experiences!

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Northern New Jersey Festivals & Themed Events Happening in February 2026

The Sky Above (sensory-friendly)
Saturday, February 7, 2026: @5:00 pm
Raritan Valley Community College, 118 Lamington Road, Branchburg, NJ
All ages
Designed for guests with sensory sensitivities, this gentle and inclusive planetarium show offers a calm environment with lowered sound, softened lighting, and a relaxed, judgment-free atmosphere. Families can enjoy an engaging journey through the night sky while feeling fully supported and comfortable. If you’re looking for a sensory-friendly event in New Jersey that blends education, accessibility, and fun, this Branchburg planetarium experience is a perfect choice.

Maple Sugaring at the Environmental Education Center
Saturdays & Sundays, February, 2026
190 Lord Stirling Road, Basking Ridge, NJ
Cost: $6 per student/senior $7 per adult (Walk-in ticket sales only. Tickets for Maple Sugaring will be sold the day of the program inside the EEC building)
Visitors will learn how trees are tapped, view sap-collecting methods past and present, and see the boiling process that produces delicious New Jersey maple syrup. This 60-minute, outdoor program is conducted at our Sugar Shack, a ½-mile hike from the EEC. Please arrive at the EEC 30-40 minutes before the program start time to purchase tickets and hike to the Sugar Shack to meet your Naturalist. Please dress appropriately for the weather conditions. Boots are recommended as the trails can be wet, muddy, and/or covered by snow.

2026 Lunar New Year Spectacular
February 15, 2026
The Dream Stage – Court A, Level 1, American Dream Mall, East Rutherford, NJ
The 2026 Lunar New Year Spectacular will light up The American Dream Mall with an afternoon of vibrant cultural celebration. Families, shoppers, and visitors will be treated to dazzling traditional performances, colorful costumes, dynamic music, and festive entertainment honoring the Year of the Horse. Set against the lively backdrop of one of New Jersey's most iconic destinations, this special event invites guests of all ages to immerse themselves in the joy, artistry, and community spirit of Lunar New Year.

Mac and Cheese Mayhem
February 28, 2026
The Morristown Armory, 430 Western Ave., Morristown, NJ
Cost: $7 in advance, $10 at the door. 3 and under free.
Mac and Cheese Mayhem returns in 2026, transforming the Morristown Armory into a bubbling, golden celebration of everyone's favorite comfort food. Guests can wander through a delicious maze of gourmet, traditional, and wildly creative mac-and-cheese creations crafted by top local chefs and food artisans. The event blends cozy nostalgia with bold culinary flair—think smoky bacon blends, truffle infused twists, spicy jalapeño bites, and overthetop toppings that spark pure joy. With music, family friendly fun, and plenty of opportunities to sample and vote for your favorites, it's a warm, winterbright highlight for food lovers across New Jersey.

 

Central New Jersey Festivals & Themed Events Happening in February 2026

New Jersey Sports Card Convention
February 6, 7, 2026, WAREHOUSE 100, Freehold, NJ
The New Jersey Sports Card Convention brings a fresh burst of energy to the hobby with a venue that feels tailor made for collectors. The industrial chic space at Warehouse 100 gives vendors and exhibitors room to spread out, making it easier for attendees to browse rare cards, meet industry pros, and discover emerging trends in the sports collectibles world. What makes this event special is its blend of nostalgia and modern collecting culture—whether you’re chasing vintage gems, exploring the latest graded releases, or introducing a young fan to the hobby, the atmosphere is welcoming and electric. It’s an ideal weekend for seasoned collectors, casual enthusiasts, families, and anyone who loves the thrill of finding that next great card in the wild.

Maple Sugaring
Saturday, February 7, 2026; 10 am, 12;30 am, & 2:30 PM
The Watershed Center, 31 Titus Mill Road, Pennington, NJ .
Discover the history, folklore, and science of maple sugaring. Visit their maple trees, find out how they tap them using drills and spiles, and try a sample of sweet maple sugar. Learn about the evaporation process and how sticky sap transforms into sweet maple syrup. The operation of our outdoor evaporator is dependent on the amount of sap the trees produce and the weather. It may not be running during all program sessions.

New Jersey Boat Expo
February 12th - 15th, 2026
New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center, 97 Sunfield Avenue, Edison, NJ
Cost: Adults: $15 Kids 12 and under FREE
This show has something for every age and interest with hundreds of new boats on sale from the top dealers in the state representing boating's most popular brands. it's the perfect outing for families and friends. Step aboard an impressive lineup of boats, shop a vast selection of accessories and services, and enjoy free fishing seminars, kid-friendly activities, and delicious food and drinks. It's a fun-filled day out of the February chill, getting you ready for an unforgettable summer on the water.

Hot Wheels Monster Trucks LIVE 'Glow-N-Fire'
Friday, Saturday, Sunday, February 13, 14, 15, 2026
Cure Insurance Arena, 81 Hamilton Avenue, Trenton, NJ
This electrifying, family-friendly spectacle is one you won't want to miss. Its a high energy tour that lights up the arena with glowing trucks, explosive stunts, and larger than life entertainment perfect for kids, parents, and die-hard Hot Wheels fans. Experience jaw-dropping jumps, epic battles, and the signature "Glow-N-Fire" effects that make this touring show one of the hottest winter events in New Jersey. Whether you're planning a weekend outing or looking for unforgettable family fun, Hot Wheels Monster Trucks LIVE in Trenton promises a thrilling adventure for all ages.

Chilly Chili Cook Off
Sunday, February 22, 2026
The Chubby Pickle, 23 Bay Ave., Highlands, NJ
Cost: $45
This annual event brings a burst of warmth and flavor to Highlands, NJ. This spirited winter tradition invites chili lovers, home cooks, and hungry spectators to sample an array of creative, spicy, and downright delicious chili recipes. With the restaurant's laid back vibe, live music, and a crowd that loves good food and good fun, the event promises a cozy escape from the February chill. Whether you're competing or just tasting, it's a perfect way to heat up a winter weekend along the Jersey Shore.

Maple Sap Collection
Sunday, February 22, 2026 (1:00 PM - 2:30 PM)
42 Lilac Drive, Flemington, NJ
Ages: 4 through 8 recommended (children must be accompanied by an adult)
Families, nature lovers, and curious learners are invited to explore how maple trees are tapped, discover the science behind sap flow, and watch the early steps of turning sap into syrup. This interactive outdoor program is perfect for kids and adults looking for an educational, seasonal activity that celebrates local traditions. If you're searching for winter things to do in Flemington, NJ or maple sugaring events in New Jersey, this engaging experience offers a sweet way to enjoy the outdoors and learn something new.

Southern NJ February 2026 Festivals and Themed Events

Holy Trinity Annual Winter Feast
Friday thru Sunday, January 30th, 31st, February 1, 2026
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, Spiros Malaspina Community Center Gymnasium, Egg Harbor Township. NJ
Event Cost: Free admission & parking
This annual family friendly winter festival features: Traditional Greek dancing, authentic Greek food, homemade Greek pastries, entertainment by DJ Ahmed Kahn, Saturday Taverna evening (7pm-11pm), and Group Dance Performances. Church Tours and Dine-in, take-out are available.

Cumberland County Winter Eagle Festival
February 7, 2026 @ 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Mauricetown Firehall, 9544 Noble Street, Mauricetown, NJ
Cost: $10 Adults; $5 children (12 and under)
The festival celebrates raptors of south Jersey, including Bald Eagles, falcons, harriers, hawks, and owls featuring raptor-viewing sites, guided walks, and other activities. Cumberland County, NJ, has the largest number of nesting Bald Eagles in the state.

“An Evening of Romance & Renewal”
Saturday, February 14, 2026: @6pm
Absecon Lighthouse, 31 South Rhode Island Avenue. Atlantic City, NJ
Cost: (minimum donation $50 couples give from the heart!)
Couples invited to take part in a group Vow Renewal Ceremony by a non-denominational minister in the Keeper's Cottage at 6pm, followed by a champagne toast and congratulations and romantic dancing. You and your partner will be able to climb the lighthouse for the price of one!

Winter Warrior Challenge
Saturday February 14, 2026, The Civic Center, Ocean City, NJ
A Presidents Day Weekend event brings families and local businesses together in Ocean City in the heart of winter. The event is run out of Civic Center and includes three components: an obstacle course race for children, a "Winter Warrior" obstacle course race for parents and individuals and team challenges such as a fire truck pull.

Maple Sugaring in Rancocas Nature Center
Sunday, February 22, 2026
Rancocas Nature Center, 794 Rancocas Rd., Westampton, NJ
Cost: FRNC members, $9/person, $30/family (limit 5); nonmembers, $11/person, $40/family (limit 5)
Bring the whole family and enjoy a program about maple sugaring, the oldest continuous industry in North America. With their self-guided hike, you'll follow a map and visit multiple interactive stations along the Rancocas trails. Learn about the Sugar Maple tree and the history of maple sugaring, observe a tapping demonstration, and enjoy a maple syrup tasting. To ward off the chills, we'll have an old-fashioned campfire burning. Start times are staggered

Atlantic City Boat Show
February 25 - March 1, 2026
1 Convention Blvd, Atlantic City, NJ
This annual event welcomes nautical novices, seasoned sailors and water lovers to discover why life is better with a boat. With more than 415,000 new boat owners taking to the water in the past 18 months, demand for boating remains at an all-time high. Attendees are invited to celebrate the homecoming of this annual boating tradition as they see and shop the most comprehensive selection of boats and gear in the area, learn new skills, and connect with fellow boating enthusiasts.

New Jersey February Attractions FAQ

New Jersey offers a range of attractions and activities in February that cater to diverse interests, from winter sports to cultural events.

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