New Jersey November Fun Festivals Near You:
(2025 Guide)
New Jersey keeps the fun going after Halloween with a full slate of fall happenings. November brings fresh air, bold colors, and a busy calendar of november nj events for families, food lovers, and anyone who likes to be out and about.
Plan your weekends with this guide to november nj festivals and holiday kickoffs. You will find harvest celebrations, foodie favorites, outdoor shows, and twinkling light displays. If you are searching for new jersey november fun festivals near your town, start here.
Key Takeaways
- November in New Jersey is packed with harvest parties, tastings, and light shows.
- You can find new jersey november fun festivals near every region of the state.
- Book tickets early, watch the weather, and plan for night-time chill.
- Family options are plentiful, from pumpkin trails to model trains.
- Food lovers can hop from beer and BBQ to wine, tacos, and mac and cheese.
Northern NJ November 2025 Festivals and Themed Events
Disney on Ice
Oct 29 - Nov 2, 2025
Prudential Center, Newark
Experience the magic of Disney on Ice, This enchanting ice-skating show features beloved Disney characters and captivating performances, including scenes from Moana 2, Inside Out 2, Toy Story, Encanto, and Frozen. Perfect for families and Disney fans, Disney on Ice offers a memorable adventure filled with dazzling costumes, high-flying jumps, and sing-along fun. Don't miss this unforgettable event in New Jersey!
Jack O' Lantern Experience
November 1, 2, 2025
Skylands Stadium, Augusta, NJ
A must-see fall attraction featuring over 6,000 hand-carved pumpkins and dazzling light displays. Perfect for families, couples, and Halloween lovers, this immersive walk-through event transforms the stadium into a glowing wonderland of themed scenes, seasonal music, and photo-worthy moments. Timed tickets ensure a smooth experience, with hot cider and treats available onsite. Don't miss one of New Jersey's top autumn events—ideal for spooky fun and unforgettable memories.
Jersey City: Day of the Dead Bar Crawl
November 1, 2025
Jersey City, NJ
If you crave a grown-up way to toast dia de los meurtos, Jersey City hosts a lively Day of the Dead Bar Crawl that blends tradition with nightlife excitement. This crawl invites locals and visitors to explore the city’s top bars, each decked out with festive decor, skulls, and marigolds.
Participants can join at any venue on the route, so you set your own pace. The event fills up fast each year, so booking your spot early is wise.
Great Pumpkin Festival
Now until November 2nd, 2025
Heaven Hill Farm,
Vernon, NJ
This festival features 35+ family fun outdoor activities included! Hayrides, Alien Invasion themed corn maze, farm animals, live entertainment, and so many fun activities for the entire family. Plus, don’t miss the 100’s of photo opportunity spots along the way! They also have 12 carnival rides, Apple Cannon, Paintball Range, Gem Mining, Wine Tasting, Food Vendors, Kettle Corn, Our Famous Apple Cider Donuts, amazing selection of pumpkins, gourds, mums, the Canine Stars Stunt Dog Show followed by Pig Racing.
Annual Teaneck International Film Festival
November 6 to 13, 2025
Multiple venues, Teaneck, NJ
This festival showcases feature films, documentaries, and shorts with meaningful messages. The aim is to help audiences think, discuss, and get involved in their communities, while recognizing both local and worldwide filmmakers in the NJ film industry.
Let It Glow: A Holiday Lantern Spectacular
November 6th, 2025 - January 11th, 2026, Thursdays & Sundays: 4pm-8pm Fridays & Saturdays: 4pm - 9pm
Bergen County Zoo at Van Saun County Park,
Paramus, NJ
Larger-than-life glowing lanterns have been installed creating 30+ glowing scenes. See animals real and imagined laid out throughout the zoo.
Let it Glow is a symphony of vivid glowing colors to tease your eyes and dazzle the mind. Come and enjoy an enchanting stroll throughout the zoo These larger than life lanterns are amazing in picture but stunning in person! With over 30 scenes, these hand-made artistic wonders are more breath-taking than the last! Its one of those things you need to see in person to truly appreciate.
Beer BBQ Bacon Showdown
Saturday, November 8, 2025
Firemans Field, Rockaway, NJ
Get ready for the ultimate flavor fest at the Beer BBQ Bacon Showdown. This sizzling outdoor event brings together top New Jersey pitmasters, craft breweries, and bacon-inspired creations for a mouthwatering day of smoky bites and bold brews. Enjoy unlimited beer samples, live music, and family-friendly fun in a vibrant fall setting. Whether you're a BBQ aficionado or a bacon lover, this showdown is a must-attend culinary celebration in Morris County. Don't miss your chance to taste, toast, and vote for your favorites!
2025 TD James Moody Jazz Festival
November 8th until 23rd, 2025
Multiple venues, Newark, NJ
Presented across multiple accessible venues throughout Newark, the citywide Festival showcases a vibrant lineup blending jazz with poetry, spoken word, dance, blues, pop, and African-Caribbean rhythms—creating an experience that welcomes all lovers of the arts. This year’s theme celebrates jazz as a powerful voice for social justice. Whether you’re a lifelong jazz enthusiast, a hip-hop fan, a poetry admirer, or simply craving live music with depth and purpose, the TD James Moody Jazz Festival invites you to join in.
Garden State Chicken Wing & Dessert Fest
Saturday, November 8, 2025
Morristown Armory,
430 Western Ave Morristown, NJ
This festival features a day filled with bold flavors and sugary goodness. Sample your way through a sizzling lineup of wings—bone-in, boneless, smoky, sweet, spicy—and cool off with cakes, cookies, and frozen treats. There will be live music by DJ Mega Steve while you test your limits or cheer on the contestants in the epic chicken wing eating contest. Enjoy food served hot from outdoor grills and fresh from indoor vendors, rain or shine.
Jersey City Mac & Cheese Festival
Saturday, November 8, 2025. (rain or shine)
Jersey City, NJ
Cost: General Admission: Adult: $43.40. Child: $22.20. Check-In @ Boots and Bones,116 Newark Avenue, Jersey City, NJ
This Jersey City Mac & Cheese Festival will be held as a food crawl (think bar crawl, but for Mac & Cheese instead)! So, round up your crew, bring your family, and get ready to take a tour around Jersey City to sample all kinds of Mac & Cheese creations from some of the best spots in town.
Your ticket includes: A sample of Mac & Cheese from EVERY participating location (Stroll at your own pace as samples are available from 1-5pm at all locations)
Secaucus Coffee and Chocolate Festival
Saturday, Sunday, November 15, 16, 2025
Meadowlands Exposition Center, 355 Plaza Drive, Secaucus, NJ
It's a celebration of all things coffee and chocolate. Plus, meet the stars of the popular ABC soap opera, General Hospital. Meet and greets, photos, and autographs are all included in your ticket price. Meet your favorite soap celeb, and enjoy all the coffee and chocolate you can handle. Sample a variety of coffee roasts and a multitude of decadent chocolate-themed sweets from local businesses.
Scotch Plains-Fanwood Restaurant Week- Dining For Dollars
Sunday,
November 16 - Saturday, November 22, 2025
This week-long culinary celebration features exclusive menus and promotions at participating restaurants, with a portion of proceeds benefiting student scholarships. Whether you're craving cozy comfort food or upscale bites, Dining For Dollars blends flavor with purpose—making every meal a meaningful experience in Union County, NJ. Don't miss this chance to dine local and make a difference
Jersey City Wine Fest
November 22, 2025
Harborside Atrium,
210 Hudson St, Jersey City, NJ
Celebrate the flavors of fall at the Jersey City Wine Fest, From 6:00 to 9:30 PM, guests can sip and savor unlimited samples of wines from around the world, paired with live music, gourmet bites, and interactive games. Whether you're a seasoned sommelier or casual enthusiast, this waterfront wine festival offers a vibrant, all-access tasting experience in the heart of Jersey City. Don't miss this premier New Jersey wine event—perfect for date nights, friend outings, or a festive start to the holiday season
Skylands Christmas Light Show & Christmas Village
November 22, 2025, through January 3, 2026
Skylands Stadium
94 Championship Pl.
Augusta, NJ 07822
Discover the magic of the holidays at the Skylands Christmas Light Show & Christmas Village. This dazzling family-friendly event features a mile-long drive-through light show with over two million lights, festive tunnels, and whimsical displays. After the show, explore the Christmas Village with holiday shopping, photos with Santa, s'mores by the fire, and seasonal treats like BBQ, ice cream, and spiked hot cocoa. Perfect for families, couples, and holiday lovers seeking unforgettable New Jersey winter events.
Warren Holiday Festival
Friday, November 28, 2025,
Municipal Complex,
Warren, NJ
Celebrate the magic of the season at the Warren Holiday Festival’s Friday evening celebration, Families can enjoy festive highlights including Santa’s grand arrival atop a decorated firetruck, live performances by the Hugh Cole School Chorus, and hands-on ornament crafting, with the grand finale the Main Street Lighting Ceremony. Strolling entertainers, colonial-era reenactors, and open house tours of historic sites add charm and nostalgia to this beloved community event. Warm up with hot chocolate, cider, and cookies while exploring the illuminated streets and holiday cheer. Perfect for all ages, this kickoff to the weekend promises unforgettable memories and seasonal joy.
Morristown Christmas Festival
Sunday, November 30th until Sunday, December 21st, 2025
The Morristown Green
10 N. Park Pl.
Morristown, NJ
Celebrate the magic of the season at the beloved Morristown Christmas Festival. This family-friendly holiday tradition transforms the Green into a winter wonderland, complete with Santa visits, miniature train rides, ice sculpture demonstrations, and festive crafts for all ages. Enjoy live entertainment, cozy treats like hot chocolate and cookies, and the dazzling Lighting of the Green, a century-old tradition that kicks off the festivities. Whether you're local or visiting, the Morristown Christmas Festival offers the perfect blend of nostalgia, community spirit, and seasonal joy—making it a must-visit destination for holiday cheer in New Jersey
Central NJ November 2025 Festivals and Themed Events
Fall Festival Weekend at Von Thun’s
Saturdays & Sundays, September 13th – November 2nd, 2025
Monmouth Junction, NJ
Von Thun offers a patchwork of seasonal fun designed for everyone, from toddlers toddling after baby goats to friends staging friendly corn maze races. Bring a camera—there are plenty of Instagram-worthy moments across the 20+ attractions, and every weekend introduces new reasons to return.
Beers on the Boards
Saturday, November 1, 2025
Martells Tiki Bar,
Point Pleasant Beach, NJ
Beers on the Boards brings craft beer lovers to the iconic Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk for a day of oceanfront tastings and seasonal celebration. Sample dozens of local and regional brews while enjoying live music, hearty food pairings, and unbeatable coastal vibes. This fall beer festival is a must-attend event for New Jersey beer enthusiasts and beachgoers alike—perfect for kicking off November with flavor and fun. Don’t miss this unforgettable blend of hops and boardwalk charm!
Cow Parade
Saturday, November 1st,2025
Cherry Grove farm,
Lawrenceville, NJ
Every November, the farm celebrates harvest season by dressing up its dairy cows in creative, colorful costumes—think painted faces, hats, and all sorts of whimsical touches. The cows march through the pasture as visitors cheer them on and snap fun photos. You'll leave with pictures that steal the show on social media.
Taco & Empanada Festival
November 1, 2025
Memorial Park, South Bound Brook, NJ
This fun family event features
courmet food trucks, music, beer, margarita & sangria garden, vendors, kids activities, pony rides, rock wall, petting zoo, face painting, sand art, inflatables, bungee trampoline, and more! Bring your friends, family, appetites, chairs & blankets.
Jersey Shore Restaurant Week
Friday, November 7 thru November Sunday, 16th, 2025
Get ready to savor the shore! Food lovers can expect a delicious opportunity to explore the region’s top culinary destinations. Participating restaurants will feature three-course prix fixe menus at $32.25 or $42.25, including an appetizer, entrée, and dessert. Whether you're craving coastal seafood, farm-to-table fare, or international flavors, this week-long event showcases the best of New Jersey’s vibrant dining scene. Discover exclusive menus, special events, and unbeatable value—perfect for locals and visitors alike looking to indulge in fall flavors along the shore
New Jersey Vietnam Veterans Memorial Ceremony
November 11, 2025, at 11 a.m
The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Holmdel
The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans Memorial will host its annual Veterans Day Ceremony—an honored tradition that pays tribute to those who served during the Vietnam War. Organized by the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation in partnership with the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, this solemn event features distinguished speakers, a wreath-laying tribute, and reflections on service and sacrifice. Open to the public, the ceremony invites families, veterans, and community members to gather in remembrance and gratitude
NJ Wine Expo
November 15, 2025
Bell Works Ballroom, Holmdel, NJ
This event will feature a variety of wineries and vineyards, industry insiders, culinary fare, and, of course, wine tasting for attendees. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or just discovering your palate, this year’s event promises an unforgettable experience. Their impressive lineup brings together New Jersey’s most outstanding — from long-established vineyards to innovative newcomers — offering guests a rare opportunity to explore the full depth of the Garden State’s winemaking scene in one unforgettable event.
Festival of Trees
November 19, until January 11, 2026
Morven Museum & Garden
55 Stockton Street
Princeton, NJ
Step into a winter wonderland at the Festival of Trees, an annual holiday tradition held in the heart of Princeton. This festive exhibit transforms the historic mansion into a dazzling showcase of creatively decorated trees and mantels by local businesses, garden clubs, and non-profits. Perfect for families, couples, and holiday enthusiasts, the Festival of Trees offers a magical blend of art, history, and seasonal cheer. Don't miss your chance to experience one of New Jersey's most enchanting holiday events—ideal for day trips, photo ops, and creating lasting memories.
Magic of Lights at PNC Bank Arts Center
November 21st until January 3rd, 2026
PNC Bank Arts Center,
Holmdel, NJ
The Magic of Lights is a dazzling, drive-through holiday lights experience featuring favorite holiday scenes and characters of the season using the latest LED technology and digital animations. Experience Magic of Lights from the comfort and safety of your own car as you wind through the sparkling path of New Jersey's favorite holiday tradition. One carload, one price.
Collect A Con
November 22, 23, 2025
New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center, Edison, NJ
Get ready for the ultimate pop culture celebration at Collect-A-Con. This massive two-day event brings together over 900 vendor tables featuring anime merch, Funko POPs, vintage toys, trading cards, and celebrity guests from your favorite shows and games. Families, collectors, and cosplay fans alike will love the live performances, exclusive panels, and immersive experiences that make Collect-A-Con the largest trading card, anime, and pop culture convention in the U.S.
Annual Bradley Beach Bonfire
November 28th, 2025
@5pm
on the Beach near the 5th Ave Gazebo,
Bradley Beach, NJ
This beloved Jersey Shore tradition lights up the coast with crackling flames, cozy vibes, and community spirit—perfect for families, couples, and visitors looking to kick off the holiday weekend. Bundle up, bring your beach chairs, and enjoy live music, warm refreshments, and stunning ocean views as the sun sets over Bradley Beach. Don’t miss one of Monmouth County’s favorite fall events!
Red Bank Holiday Express Concert, Tree Lighting, & Holiday Activities
Friday, November 28th, 2025
Downtown
Red Bank, NJ
Kick off the holiday season in style at the Red Bank Holiday Express Concert and Town Lighting in downtown Red Bank, NJ. This beloved annual event transforms Broad Street into a winter wonderland, featuring a dazzling Christmas tree lighting, live music by the renowned Holiday Express band, and festive activities for all ages. Families, couples, and visitors can enjoy pre-show entertainment starting at 5:00 PM at Edmund Wilson Plaza, followed by the heartwarming concert that supports vulnerable communities across New Jersey.
Corn Picking & Thanksgiving Hayrides at The Howell Living History Farm
Saturday, November 29, 2025
Howell Living History Farm,
Hopewell Twp., NJ
Celebrate the spirit of the season at the Corn Picking & Thanksgiving Hayrides event. Families can enjoy festive hayrides, hands-on corn picking, and community giving by donating non-perishable food or new toys for Toys for Tots. This beloved fall tradition blends farm fun with holiday generosity—making it one of the top Thanksgiving weekend activities in New Jersey for all ages
Greenberg's Great Train & Toy Show
November
29, 30, 2025
New Jersey Convention & Exposition Center, Edison, NJ
This show Features Hundreds of Tables of Trains for Sale Exhibitors from Across the Country Huge Operating Model Train Displays Including: Free Workshops and Demonstrations Free Test Track . Test Run Your Trains at the Show On-Site Train Repairs Free Door Prize Giveaways Plus Much More!
Southern NJ November 2025 Festivals and Themed Events
Cape May Restaurant Weekend – Fall
Oct 30 to Nov 2, 2025, Cape May
Invites food lovers to savor the flavors of the Jersey Shore’s culinary scene. This four-day event showcases Cape May’s top restaurants offering specially priced, three-course dinners that highlight seasonal ingredients and coastal charm. Perfect for a cozy autumn getaway, the weekend combines gourmet dining with Victorian seaside ambiance. Whether you're a local or visiting for a fall escape, This four-day event showcases Cape May’s top restaurants offering specially priced, three-course dinners that highlight seasonal ingredients and coastal charm. Perfect for a cozy autumn getaway, the weekend combines gourmet dining with Victorian seaside ambiance. Whether you're a local or visiting for a fall escape, Cape May Restaurant Weekend delivers delicious value and unforgettable experiences
Fintastic Pumpkin Glow at Adventure Aquarium
September 25th until November, 2, 2025, Camden
Explore the glow deep below this fall during Adventure Aquarium's Fintastic Pumpkin Glow.where visitors can discover one-of-a-kind glowing pumpkin sculptures, both above ground and illuminating among sharks, stingrays, and other aquatic life that you won't find anywhere else! Families can also take part in Paint-A-Pumpkin, creating a festive keepsake to bring home. This non-spooky, glowing adventure promises a delight for the whole family.
9th Annual Max's Family Fall Fest & Fishing Tournament
November 2, 2025: 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm
The Grove at the Elks Lodge #2340,
Manahawkin, NJ
Celebrate autumn at Max's Family Fall Fest & Fishing Tournament, This free-admission family event features live music, local seafood, kids' activities, and a thrilling fishing competition with real-time weigh-ins. Enjoy all-you-can-eat wristbands, craft brews, and community fun while supporting youth prevention programs in Ocean County. Perfect for families, anglers, and fall festival lovers!
The Atlantic City Tattoo Expo
November 7, 8, 9, 2025
Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Atlantic City, NJ
Ink lovers, mark your calendars! This premier East Coast tattoo event features over 100 world-class artists, live tattooing, art installations, entertainment, and shopping—all in a vibrant seaside setting. Whether you're a seasoned collector or curious newcomer, this three-day celebration of ink culture promises unforgettable experiences and creative inspiration in one of New Jersey’s top entertainment destinations
Diggerland Drive thru Holiday Light Show
November 14th until January 11th, 2026
100 Pinedge Drive
West Berlin, NJ
Experience the magic of the 2025 Diggerland Drive-Thru Holiday Light Show, This dazzling one-mile course transforms America's only construction-themed park into a festive wonderland of twinkling lights, animated displays, and illuminated tunnels. Families can enjoy holiday music via Diggerland's exclusive radio station while cruising through millions of lights. Perfect for all ages, this unforgettable event is a must-see New Jersey holiday tradition
DiDonato's Magical Holiday Express
November 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30. December 3 until 23, 2025
DiDonato's Family Fun Center,
Hammonton, NJ
All aboard the DiDonato’s Magical Holiday Express—South Jersey’s beloved Christmas train ride. Families can experience a dazzling journey through millions of twinkling lights, meet Santa and his elves in their festive workshop, enjoy holiday treats, and explore the enchanting Holiday Village. With free bowling, photo ops, and seasonal surprises, this immersive event is perfect for kids ages 1–92.
Cape May Christmas Holiday Season
November 22nd until January 4th, 2026
Emlen Physick Estate, Cape May, NJ
The Cape May Christmas holiday season kicks off with the tree lighting ceremony on Saturday, November 22, 2025, and continues every weekend as the town is transformed into a Dickens village for the holidays with garlands of fragrant greens and twinkling gaslights. Wrap yourself in the warmth of holiday spirit and sample a variety of fun tours and events.
Smithville Holiday Light Show On The Lake
Thanksgiving until January 5th, 2026
Historical Smithville
615 E. Moss Mill Rd.
Smithville, NJ
Experience the magic of the Smithville Holiday Light Show on the Lake. Features over 120 dazzling Christmas trees—crafted from more than 50,000 lights—float on Lake Meone, dancing in sync with festive music nightly from 5:30 to 8:30 PM. This free, family-friendly event transforms the Village Greene into a winter wonderland, offering visitors enchanting views from both sides of the lake and the iconic bridge. Don’t miss one of New Jersey’s most beloved holiday traditions, perfect for seasonal strolls, shopping, and joyful memories
The 22nd Annual Antique Toy Train Show
Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, November 28th, 2025 thru February 1st, 2026
Museum of American History,
Deptford, NJ
Cost:
$4 Adult, $3 children.
Features O and O-27 gauge toy trains from the 1930's, 1940's and 1950's. Lionel, Marx and American Flyer engines, with adjoining cars, will race on two diverse platforms. Vintage Plasticville buildings from the 950's will further augment the display. Vegetatation and auxiliary structures will give the platforms a traditional holiday appearance.
Collingswood Holiday Parade
Saturday, November 29, 2025
Downtown,
Collingswood, NJ
Get ready for one of South Jersey's most beloved holiday traditions. This festive event transforms the heart of Collingswood into a winter wonderland of joy and celebration. The parade kicks off at Zane Avenue and marches all the way to West Linden Avenue, showcasing a spectacular lineup of marching bands, dancers, holiday-themed floats, mummers, mascots, and giants on stilts. Families and visitors will delight in the vibrant performances, whimsical characters, and live music that fill the streets with holiday cheer. Whether you're a local resident or visiting for the weekend, the Collingswood Holiday Parade offers a perfect way to kick off the holiday season.
FAQS
Q: Where can I find november nj events that are kid friendly?
A: Start with farm festivals, lantern walks, drive-through light shows, and train exhibits. The Jack O’ Lantern Experience, Let It Glow, and Howell Farm hayrides are great picks.
Q: What november nj festivals run rain or shine?
A: Many food and beer events use tents. Beers on the Boards, Beer BBQ Bacon Showdown, and the Wing & Dessert Fest note coverage or indoor options.
Q: Are there free events this month?
A: Yes. The Bradley Beach Bonfire is free. Howell Farm hayrides are free with a food donation while supplies last. Community ceremonies are also free to attend.
Q: What are the best date night ideas?
A: Try Jersey City Wine Fest, a restaurant week dinner, or a lantern walk at the zoo. Cape May’s holiday season also sets a nice mood.
Q: How early should I get tickets?
A: Reserve as soon as you can, especially for tastings, timed-entry shows, and popular weekend slots. Many sell out.
