Oktoberfests, Family, and Fall Festivals: Check out New Jersey's October Events: 2025

As the crisp fall air arrives, Bavarian-inspired Oktoberfest celebrations, family days, and fall fairs fill the calendar. If you are searching for a New Jersey Oktoberfest or even new jersey october events and nj october events near me, October 2025 has plenty to plan around.

Why October Festivals in New Jersey Stand Out

Experience the best parts of fall at a New Jersey October 2025 festival or event. Here is why the month feels packed and memorable:

Peak foliage magic: Colors often peak mid to late month. Small towns, parks, and back roads glow, which makes every drive and festival feel photo ready.
Family-friendly fun: Haunted houses, pumpkin patches with games, hayrides and rides, live music, and fall markets are everywhere. From ghost tours to cider tastings, there is something for every age.
Charming backdrops: Many events take place in historic villages, on farms, or by the shore. You get warm small-town vibes, local food, and great views in one outing.
Plan your weekends with live music, craft vendors, food trucks, wine tastings, and seasonal treats. Start with these top new jersey october events across the state.

Key Takeaways

October 2025 in New Jersey features peak foliage, family fun, and postcard towns.
Top picks include Skylands Stadium Jack O’Lanterns, Montclair Film Festival, Asbury Park Zombie Walk, Oktoberfests, harvest fairs, LBI Kite Festival, Submersion, Cape May Restaurant Week, plus pumpkin trains, hayrides, live music, crafts, and coastal views.
Save this list when planning new jersey october events or searching nj october events near me.

Northern New Jersey October 2025 Festivals

Jack O’Lantern Experience
Sept 26 to Nov 2, 2025, Skylands Stadium, Augusta
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.

Mountain Creek Fall Festival
Weekends, Sept 27 to Nov 2, 2025, Vernon
Experience the vibrant colors and crisp mountain air at this family-friendly event. Features scenic sky rides, thrilling mountain coaster adventures, live music, local food vendors, and seasonal favorites like hay mazes, bounce houses, and pumpkin shopping. Whether you're leaf-peeping, sipping cider, or enjoying outdoor games, the Fall fest offers unforgettable fun for all ages.

Brite Nites at Wagner Farm Arboretum
Oct 24, 25, 2025, Warren Township
This family-friendly Halloween event features a dazzling ¼-mile walking path lined with thousands of hand-carved, LED-lit pumpkins, spooky displays, games, photo ops, and local food trucks. Perfect for all ages, Brite Nites Lite offers early entry for families with young children and a separate “spooky section” for thrill-seekers. Don’t miss this glowing fall tradition in Somerset County—an unforgettable seasonal celebration that blends artistry, community, and autumn fun.

Annual Montclair Film Festival
Oct 23 to 26, 2025, Montclair
This premier New Jersey film event showcases award-winning movies, engaging panels, and exclusive screenings at iconic venues like The Wellmont Theater and Bellevue Cinema. Perfect for film lovers and culture seekers, the festival celebrates storytelling, industry innovation, and community creativity in the heart of Essex County.

Dia De Los Muertos in Washington Boro
Oct 23, 2025, Veterans Park, Washington
A vibrant, family-friendly event honoring Mexican traditions with live mariachi music, sugar skull face painting, local vendors, and a heartfelt fire pit tribute to loved ones passed. This free outdoor festival blends culture, art, and remembrance in downtown Washington, NJ, making it a must-attend fall celebration for all ages.

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!

Central New Jersey October 2025 Festivals

The Diwali, "Festival of Lights"
Saturday, October 18 (Dhan Trayodashi) to Sunday, October 26, 2025, The BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham Hindu temple, Mercer county
Celebrate Diwali, the radiant Festival of Lightst at the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham Hindu temple where families gather to honor tradition with vibrant rituals, dazzling fireworks, and cultural performances. From Dhan Trayodashi to the grand finale of Bhai Dooj, this multi-day celebration illuminates the temple grounds with diyas, rangoli art, and devotional music, creating a joyful atmosphere of unity and spiritual renewal. Perfect for families and cultural enthusiasts, this Diwali event in New Jersey offers an unforgettable experience steeped in heritage, light, and community spirit.

East Brunswick Restaurant Week
Oct 20 to 26, 2025, East Brunswick
Savor the township’s vibrant culinary scene with exclusive menus, discounts, and diverse flavors from over 30 participating eateries. From cozy diners and global cuisine to upscale favorites, this Central Jersey event invites food lovers to explore East Brunswick’s unique dining landscape beyond the traditional downtown vibe. Perfect for locals and visitors seeking delicious deals and community spirit.

Piscataway Fall Harvest Festival
Oct 24 to 26 and Oct 31 to Nov 1, 2025, Piscataway
This free, family-friendly event features living history interpreters, pumpkin picking, wagon rides, seasonal crafts, and live music by the Sawmill Run Old Time String Band. Guests can enjoy fresh pies, apple cider, and cider doughnuts while exploring the historic village grounds. Perfect for families and fall lovers, the festival offers a nostalgic blend of heritage and harvest fun in the heart of Middlesex County

Asbury Park Halloween Food Truck and Music Festival
Saturday, Oct 25, 2025, Asbury Park
Celebrate spooky season at the Asbury Park Halloween Food Truck and Music Festival, a two-day family-friendly event across from Convention Hall. Featuring 20 gourmet food trucks, live bands, costume contests for all ages, a vendor shopping village, and an adult beverage garden, this festive fall gathering blends delicious eats with seasonal entertainment in one of New Jersey’s most iconic shore towns.

Night of Frights
Oct 25, 2025, Historic Village at Allaire, Wall Township
Experience spine-tingling thrills at this immersive Halloween event where 18th- and 19th-century buildings come alive with ghosts, ghouls, and eerie entertainment. From glow-in-the-dark bubble shows and fire jugglers to chilling storytelling in the chapel and a haunted wedding scene, this family-friendly attraction blends history with haunting fun for an unforgettable October night. Perfect for New Jersey Halloween seekers looking for spooky seasonal events near the Jersey Shore

Último Domingo, Día de los Muertos at the Zimmerli Art Museum
Sunday, October 26, 2025, New Brunswick
Celebrate Latino heritage at this vibrant, family-friendly afternoon filled with art-making, bilingual performances, and cultural exhibitions. This free event invites visitors of all ages to honor the Day of the Dead through interactive experiences that blend tradition and creativity, making it one of New Jersey’s top cultural happenings for fall 2025. Pre-register for free parking and explore the heart of Rutgers’ campus while immersing yourself in this unforgettable celebration

Southern New Jersey October 2025 Festivals

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, Cape May Restaurant Weekend delivers delicious value and unforgettable experiencesnvites 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, Cape May Restaurant Weekend delivers delicious value and unforgettable experiences

Ocean City Halloween Parade
Oct 30, 2025, Ocean City
The Ocean City NJ Halloween Parade is a beloved family-friendly event that lights up Asbury Avenue from 6th to 11th Street starting at 7:15 p.m. This festive parade features vibrant floats, creative costumes, marching bands, and plenty of candy and activities for all ages. Join the community in celebrating Halloween spirit with fun, treats, and spooky sights in one of the tri-state area's longest-running nighttime parades.

FAQS-New Jersey’s October Festivals and Events

What types of events happen in October?

Expect harvest festivals, Oktoberfests, pumpkin patches, corn mazes, food truck fairs, winery weekends, craft shows, Halloween parades, ghost tours, and live music. Many towns run fall themed street fairs and farmers markets.

When does fall foliage peak in New Jersey?

North Jersey often peaks in mid to late October. Central and South Jersey usually peak in late October into early November. Weather can shift timing, so check weekly foliage reports.

Do I need tickets or can I just show up?

It depends on the event. Street fairs are often free. Farms, haunted attractions, and some Oktoberfests sell timed tickets. Buy early for popular weekends, especially late October.

Are these events family friendly?

Most are geared to families. Harvest festivals, pumpkin patches, and town fairs are great for kids. Some haunted houses and late-night shows may be intense. Check each event’s age guidance.

What should I wear?

Dress in layers. Daytime highs often reach the 60s, nights can fall into the 40s. Wear waterproof shoes for farms or fields. Pack a hat, gloves, and a warm layer for evenings.

How do I get there without a car?

NJ Transit trains and buses reach many towns with festivals. Rideshares are common in city centers. Rural farms have limited public transit. Some big events run shuttles from park-and-ride lots.

Where is parking easiest?

Arrive early. Look for municipal lots, school lots used for event parking, or paid farm fields. Follow posted signs. Bring cash since some small lots do not take cards.

Are dogs allowed?

Rules vary. Many street fairs allow leashed dogs. Farms, beer gardens, and busy markets often do not. Service animals are usually allowed. Check the event page before you go.

Can I drink alcohol at festivals?

Beer gardens and winery events serve alcohol with ID checks. Open containers are not allowed outside designated areas. Bring a valid ID.

What happens if it rains?

Some events list rain dates, others go rain or shine. Farms may close muddy fields or rides. Check official updates on the morning of the event.

Are there good options for food lovers?

Yes. Food truck festivals, cider doughnuts at farms, seafood along the coast, and German fare at Oktoberfests are popular. Many events feature New Jersey breweries and wineries.

How scary are the haunted attractions?

They range from mild hayrides to intense haunted houses with actors and strobe lights. Most list scare levels and content warnings. Skip-the-line passes can reduce waits.

What are the busiest weekends?

The last two weekends of October draw the biggest crowds. Go early in the day or try Fridays and Sundays. Weekdays work best for farms and mazes.

Are events accessible?

Large town festivals often have ADA parking, paved routes, and accessible restrooms. Farms may have gravel and uneven ground. Read accessibility notes and call ahead if needed.

Can I bring my own chair or blanket?

Portable chairs and blankets are welcome at many outdoor shows and parades. Some venues limit oversized chairs or coolers. Check each event’s rules.

Is there a cost for kids activities?

Face painting, rides, and games often cost extra. Farms may charge per attraction, like hayrides or corn mazes. Look for combo wristbands to save money.

What about safety and security?

Expect bag checks at bigger events. Costumes with realistic weapons are usually banned. Some venues limit masks for adults. Follow posted rules.

Any tips for seeing fall colors while festival hopping?

Pair a morning hike or scenic drive with an afternoon event. Try the Skylands region and roads near reservoirs in North Jersey for big views. Clear mornings offer the best photos.