North Jersey Weekend Events: 13 Fun Picks (Oct–Nov 2026)

North Jersey Weekend Events: 13 Fun Things to Do (October 24 to November 15, 2026)

Looking for fun things to do in North Jersey this weekend? Whether you're planning a family outing, a date night, or just want to explore something new, there's plenty happening across North Jersey this fall.

From Halloween festivals and food truck events to live music, history, and family activities, October and November are packed with opportunities to enjoy our local communities.

I've spent more than 15 years helping people buy and sell homes throughout North Jersey. As someone born and raised in Paterson, I know there's much more to this area than just real estate.

It's the neighborhoods, the local businesses, the parks, and the community events that make living here special.

That's why I enjoy sharing what's happening around the area. And if you're thinking about making North Jersey your home, you can always schedule a free real estate consultation with me.

Here are 13 North Jersey events worth checking out from October 24 through November 15, 2026, including several free, family-friendly options.

All event times are Eastern Time. Details are based on published event listings as of October 23, 2026. Check the organizer's website before attending for any last-minute changes.

North Jersey Events This Weekend: October 24–25, 2026

If you're wondering what to do in North Jersey this weekend, these four events offer something for almost everyone.

1. Western Fall Festival in Newark, NJ

Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Location: Military Park, 51 Park Place, Newark, NJ
Admission: Free

Looking for a free family activity in Essex County?

The Western Fall Festival brings food, music, and fall festivities to downtown Newark.

It's a great opportunity to spend a few hours outside, enjoy the autumn atmosphere, and support the local community.

The event is organized by Newark Alliance and welcomes families, friends, and visitors.

Why it's worth checking out: You can enjoy a community festival without paying an admission fee.

View Western Fall Festival details

2. Lunar Faire Halloweekend in Augusta, NJ

Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026
Time: 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Location: Sussex County Fairgrounds, 37 Plains Road, Augusta, NJ
Admission: Tickets starting around $25

Want something different from the usual Halloween party?

Lunar Faire is bringing its Halloweekend Night Market to Sussex County.

This isn't your typical fall festival. The event features an unusual, creative atmosphere inspired by Halloween, fantasy, and alternative arts.

Visitors can explore a night market, discover unique vendors, and enjoy an evening centered around the spooky season.

The organizer describes this as its biggest and most unusual night market of the season.

Why it's worth checking out: It's a fun option for couples, groups of friends, and anyone who enjoys Halloween celebrations with a creative twist.

Explore Lunar Faire and ticket information

3. FoodeesFest Food Festival in Rockaway, NJ

Dates: Saturday, October 24 and Sunday, October 25, 2026
Saturday Hours: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Sunday Hours: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Location: Rockaway Townsquare, 301 Mt Hope Avenue, Rockaway, NJ
Admission: Free

If you love food festivals, this might be one of the best North Jersey events of the weekend.

FoodeesFest is bringing more than 40 food vendors to Rockaway, along with dozens of artisans and craft sellers.

Visitors can explore different food options, shop for handmade products, and spend time with family and friends.

The festival is designed for all ages.

Another nice feature is that the organizers welcome friendly, leashed pets.

Additional benefits include:

• Free admission

• Free on-site parking

• ADA-friendly accessibility

• Family-friendly environment

• Local and regional food vendors

• Artisan shopping

Food and merchandise purchases are separate.

My take: Events like this are a great way to support small businesses while discovering another North Jersey community.

Get free FoodeesFest tickets

4. Cider Barn Band Bluegrass Concert in Park Ridge, NJ

Date: Sunday, October 25, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM
Location: Wortendyke Barn Museum, 13 Pascack Road, Park Ridge, NJ
Admission: Free

Looking for something relaxing to do in Bergen County?

The 16th Annual Cider Barn Band Bluegrass Show offers live music in a historic setting.

This concert marks the finale of Bergen County's 2026 Music at the Barn season.

Families are welcome, and guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and picnic snacks.

It's a nice alternative to crowded festivals and busy shopping centers.

Why it's worth checking out: You can enjoy live bluegrass music, spend time outdoors, and experience a piece of Bergen County history without spending money on admission.

View Bergen County concert details

Halloween Weekend Events in North Jersey: October 31 to November 1, 2026

Halloween weekend brings more opportunities to get outside, dress up, and celebrate.

Here are three events to consider.

5. Hudson County Fall Festival in Jersey City, NJ

Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Location: 902 Brewing Co., 101 Pacific Avenue, Jersey City, NJ
Admission: Free

If you're looking for a family-friendly Halloween festival near Jersey City, this one deserves a spot on your calendar.

The Hudson County Fall Festival features activities designed for children and families.

According to Hudson County Tourism, planned activities include:

• Pumpkin decorating

• Face painting

• Trick-or-treating

• Costume contests

• Balloon twisting

• Glitter tattoos

• An obstacle course

• A trackless train

• Live music and food

With so many activities in one location, families can enjoy an afternoon of Halloween fun.

Why it's worth checking out: It's a free festival offering several activities for children of different ages.

Get Hudson County Fall Festival details

6. Halloween Parade at Lincoln Park in Jersey City

Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
Event Hours: 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Parade Start: 11:30 AM
Location: Lincoln Park, Jersey City, NJ
Admission: Not specified

Halloween wouldn't be complete without a costume parade.

The South Hudson Civic Association is organizing a Halloween parade at Lincoln Park in Jersey City.

The parade is scheduled to begin at 11:30 AM near the playground next to the Gallo Center.

This is an opportunity to enjoy the holiday atmosphere and see community members celebrating Halloween.

If you plan to attend, arrive early enough to find the gathering area before the parade begins.

View the official Jersey City Halloween Parade listing

7. Trick or Creek Jump Jam in Vernon, NJ

Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Location: Mountain Creek Resort, 200 Route 94, Vernon, NJ
Participant Admission: Free

Want a Halloween event that's more about action than candy?

Mountain Creek Resort is hosting its annual Trick or Creek Jump Jam.

The event combines mountain biking, tricks, costumes, and competition.

Participants can compete for awards, including best costume, best trick, and best overall performance.

There's also a youth competition category.

An awards presentation and after-party are planned after the event.

This is a good option for mountain biking enthusiasts and people who enjoy watching action sports.

The organizer lists participation as free. Spectators should check the official website for any admission or access requirements.

See Mountain Creek event details

North Jersey Weekend Events: November 7–8, 2026

The first full weekend of November offers food, history, and family activities.

8. Jersey City Mac & Cheese Festival

Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Check-In: Hudson Hall, 364 Marin Boulevard, Jersey City, NJ
Tickets: Approximately $16.92 to $69.92, depending on ticket type

Mac and cheese lovers, this one's for you.

The Jersey City Mac & Cheese Festival gives visitors an opportunity to sample different takes on one of America's favorite comfort foods.

Instead of staying at one location, participants visit restaurants throughout Jersey City.

After checking in, guests receive a Mac Passport and can explore participating restaurants at their own pace.

General admission includes food samples from participating locations. VIP tickets offer additional benefits.

This could make a fun date, an outing with friends, or a chance to discover restaurants you haven't tried before.

My take: One of the things I appreciate about North Jersey is how many great local businesses we have. Food events like this give people another reason to explore them.

Ticket prices are scheduled to increase after November 1, so check the available options early.

Get Jersey City Mac & Cheese Festival tickets

9. Hands On History in Ringwood, NJ

Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Location: Passaic County Archaeology Center, 1093 Greenwood Lake Turnpike, Ringwood, NJ
Age Requirement: 16 and older
Admission: Registration required; confirm price with organizer

Interested in archaeology or local history?

Passaic County is offering a Hands On History program where participants can work with an expert and learn how archaeologists study the past.

Visitors will have an opportunity to handle actual artifacts and discover how historical objects help explain earlier cultures.

This is a more educational weekend activity for adults and older teenagers.

Growing up in Paterson, I've always appreciated how much history exists throughout Passaic County.

Places like Ringwood and Wayne offer opportunities to learn about the region beyond its modern neighborhoods and homes.

Learn more about Hands On History

10. Hoboken Kids Run & Family Fun Day

Date: Sunday, November 8, 2026
Time: Starting at 9:00 AM
Location: Maxwell Place Park, 1100 Sinatra Drive, Hoboken, NJ
Admission: Free with advance registration

Looking for a free outdoor activity for children?

The Hoboken Kids Run & Family Fun Day is designed to get children moving while giving families a chance to spend time together.

Children ages 3 through 10 can participate in age-appropriate races.

The event includes:

• Children's running races

• Finisher medals

• Music and refreshments

• Professional race-day photos

• An Adaptive Kids Run for children with special needs

The Adaptive Kids Run begins at 9:00 AM, followed by the other age groups.

I especially appreciate seeing community events that make an effort to include children with different abilities.

The event is free, but advance registration is required. Participation is limited to 200 children.

Register for the Hoboken Kids Run

North Jersey Events: November 14–15, 2026

Mid-November brings another round of events, including a popular food festival, a historical dinner, and the start of holiday celebrations.

11. Hoboken Pizza Fest 2026

Date: Saturday, November 14, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Location: Participating restaurants throughout Hoboken, NJ
Check-In Option: Urban CoalHouse, 116 14th Street, Hoboken, NJ
Tickets: Approximately $22.22 to $75.22, depending on ticket type

New Jersey residents take their pizza seriously.

And Hoboken Pizza Fest gives pizza lovers an opportunity to sample several local restaurants in one afternoon.

Guests receive a Pizza Passport and walk through participating locations.

General admission includes a half-slice from each participating restaurant, along with additional samples or treats.

VIP options include extra benefits.

It's a fun opportunity to explore Hoboken's restaurant scene and spend time with family or friends.

Ticket prices are expected to increase after November 8.

Check your ticket confirmation carefully because check-in locations may vary.

Get Hoboken Pizza Fest tickets

12. Dinner with George and Martha Washington in Wayne, NJ

Date: Saturday, November 14, 2026
First Seating: 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Second Seating: 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM
Location: Dey Mansion Washington's Headquarters, 199 Totowa Road, Wayne, NJ
Admission: $75 per person

Here's an event that combines history with a unique dining experience.

Dey Mansion in Wayne is hosting Dinner with George and Martha Washington.

Guests will experience a historically inspired meal while learning about life during the American Revolution.

Historical interpreters portraying George and Martha Washington will take part in the evening.

It's an interesting way to experience local history rather than simply reading about it.

As a real estate agent serving Passaic County, I always encourage people to explore the history behind the communities they visit.

Wayne is a great example of a town where suburban living and important historical sites come together.

Seating is limited, so advance booking is recommended.

Reserve tickets for Dinner with George and Martha Washington

13. Festival of Lights in Newton, NJ

Date: Saturday, November 14, 2026
Time: 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM
Location: Newton Medical Center, 175 High Street, Newton, NJ
Admission: Confirm registration details with organizer

Ready to get into the holiday spirit?

The 35th Annual C. Edward McCracken Festival of Lights offers a festive gathering to welcome the holiday season.

Organized by the Newton Medical Center Foundation, the event brings the community together for a seasonal celebration.

The published schedule includes:

• 4:30 PM: Community reception

• 5:30 PM: Tree-lighting ceremony and fireworks

It's a chance to enjoy an early holiday celebration in Sussex County.

The organizer provides registration and sponsorship information through its official event page.

View Festival of Lights details

What Are the Best Free Family-Friendly Events in North Jersey?

If you're trying to enjoy the weekend without spending too much, several events on this list offer free admission.

My top picks include:

• Western Fall Festival, Newark: October 24, free fall activities and entertainment.

• FoodeesFest, Rockaway: October 24–25, free admission and plenty of food vendors.

• Cider Barn Band Concert, Park Ridge: October 25, free live bluegrass music.

• Hudson County Fall Festival, Jersey City: October 31, free Halloween activities for families.

• Hoboken Kids Run & Family Fun Day: November 8, free children's races with advance registration.

Remember, free admission doesn't always mean everything at the event is free.

Food, shopping, parking at some venues, or optional activities may cost extra.

Why Community Events Matter When Choosing Where to Live in North Jersey

When people ask me about buying a home in Clifton, Paterson, Wayne, or Bergen County, the conversation usually starts with the property itself.

How many bedrooms? How big is the yard? What are the property taxes?

Those are all important questions.

But I believe there's another question buyers should ask.

What will my life look like outside the house?

After more than 15 years in real estate, I've learned that finding the right home also means understanding the surrounding community.

Some people want to be close to parks and outdoor activities.

Others prefer neighborhoods with restaurants, entertainment, and events within easy reach.

Families may prioritize community programs and activities for children.

That's why exploring local events can be a useful part of getting to know an area before deciding where to live.

Discovering Clifton, Paterson, and Passaic County

Having grown up in Paterson, I know that Passaic County offers a wide variety of communities.

Paterson has a rich history and diverse neighborhoods. Clifton offers a mix of residential areas, shopping, parks, and convenient regional access.

Wayne, Ringwood, and other Passaic County towns provide different lifestyles and recreational opportunities.

Each community has its own personality.

If you're thinking about buying a home in the area, start by exploring the available North Jersey featured listings.

Exploring Bergen County and Surrounding Communities

Bergen County offers everything from bustling downtown districts to quieter residential neighborhoods.

Local concerts, seasonal festivals, historic landmarks, and parks give residents opportunities to connect with their communities.

If you're relocating from New York City or looking for more space, attending weekend events can help you get a feel for different towns.

My advice is simple.

Don't just visit a neighborhood during a home showing.

Visit the parks. Explore the downtown. Grab something to eat. See what the community feels like on a weekend.

That experience can help you decide whether an area fits your lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions About North Jersey Weekend Events

What events are happening in North Jersey on October 24 and 25, 2026?

Events scheduled for October 24 and 25 include the Western Fall Festival in Newark, Lunar Faire Halloweekend in Augusta, FoodeesFest in Rockaway, and the Cider Barn Band Bluegrass Concert in Park Ridge.

These events offer food, music, shopping, Halloween entertainment, and family activities.

Are there free events in North Jersey this weekend?

Yes. The Western Fall Festival in Newark, FoodeesFest in Rockaway, and the Cider Barn Band Concert in Park Ridge all advertise free admission for the October 24–25 weekend.

Individual purchases may cost extra.

What are some family-friendly Halloween events in North Jersey?

Families can consider the Hudson County Fall Festival and the Halloween Parade in Jersey City on October 31.

The Lunar Faire Halloweekend event on October 24 also welcomes families.

Always review each event's activities and admission requirements before attending.

What are some good North Jersey date-night events in November 2026?

The Jersey City Mac & Cheese Festival on November 7, Hoboken Pizza Fest on November 14, and Dinner with George and Martha Washington in Wayne on November 14 are interesting options.

Each offers a different experience, from sampling local restaurants to enjoying a historical dinner.

Where can I find upcoming community events in Passaic County and Bergen County?

For Passaic County events, visit the See Passaic County calendar.

For Bergen County events, check the official Bergen County events calendar.

These calendars are useful resources for seasonal activities, historical programs, concerts, and other local happenings.

Thinking About Buying or Selling a Home in North Jersey?

Enjoying everything North Jersey offers is one thing. Finding the right place to call home is another.

I'm Johnny Rodriguez with Realty ONE Group Legend, serving buyers and sellers throughout Passaic County, Bergen County, and surrounding North Jersey communities.

As North Jersey's First AI-Certified Realtor, I combine modern technology with more than 15 years of hands-on real estate experience.

Whether you're a first-time buyer, planning a move, or thinking about selling, I'm here to help you understand your options.

Here are a few helpful resources:

• Buying a home? Browse my featured North Jersey homes for sale.

• Thinking about selling? Start with a home value evaluation.

• Inherited a property? Learn about your options with my New Jersey probate real estate guide.

• Having trouble with mortgage payments? Explore my North Jersey short sale resources.

No pressure. Just real information to help you make informed decisions.

Enjoy Your Weekend in North Jersey

One of the things I love about North Jersey is that you don't have to travel far to find something interesting to do.

Whether you're enjoying food in Rockaway, visiting a festival in Newark, listening to music in Bergen County, or exploring history in Wayne, there's always another community worth discovering.

So get out, support local businesses, spend time with family, and enjoy everything our area has to offer.

And if you're thinking about buying or selling a home in Clifton, Paterson, Passaic County, Bergen County, or anywhere in North Jersey, I'd be happy to help.

Schedule a Free Real Estate Consultation with Johnny Rodriguez

I'm Johnny Rodriguez, your local North Jersey real estate resource.

611Homes | Realty ONE Group Legend

Where Cutting-Edge AI Meets Genuine Expertise.

Event details were researched using organizer, municipal, county, and official ticketing websites. Dates, times, prices, and availability may change. Always confirm with the organizer before attending.