Things to Do in North Jersey This Weekend | Oct 2026

Things to Do in North Jersey This Weekend: October 10–11 & 17–18, 2026

Looking for fun things to do in North Jersey this weekend? October is one of the best times to get outside, explore local communities, and enjoy everything North Jersey has to offer.

From fall festivals and pumpkin picking to Halloween attractions, street fairs, and live entertainment, there is plenty happening across Bergen County and Passaic County during the weekends of October 10–11 and October 17–18, 2026.

Whether you're planning a family outing, looking for a fun date idea, or simply want to discover something new close to home, I've put together six local attractions and events worth checking out.

I'm Johnny Rodriguez, a North Jersey real estate agent with over 15 years of experience helping buyers and sellers throughout Clifton, Paterson, Bergen County, Passaic County, and surrounding communities.

I was born and raised in Paterson, and one thing I've always appreciated about North Jersey is how much each community has to offer. A great place to live is about more than the house you purchase. It's also about the neighborhoods, local businesses, parks, and experiences you get to enjoy.

If you're thinking about buying or selling a home while exploring everything our area offers, you can schedule a free real estate consultation with me.

Now, let's take a look at what's happening in North Jersey this October.

North Jersey Events for October 10–11, 2026

The first weekend offers a mix of free community entertainment, seasonal farm activities, and Halloween thrills.

1. Glen Rock Street Fair & Craft Show, October 11

If you enjoy shopping from local businesses, discovering handmade products, and spending time outdoors, the Glen Rock Street Fair & Craft Show deserves a spot on your weekend calendar.

Event details:

• Date: Sunday, October 11, 2026

• Time: 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM

• Location: Rock Road and Glen Avenue, Glen Rock, NJ

• Admission: Free

• Best for: Families, couples, shoppers, and community enthusiasts

This annual Bergen County event transforms downtown Glen Rock into an outdoor shopping and entertainment destination.

Visitors can expect local artisans, handmade crafts, food vendors, live music, and activities for children.

It's a great opportunity to support small businesses while enjoying the fall weather.

What I appreciate about events like this is that they give people a chance to experience a town beyond its residential streets.

If you're considering moving to Glen Rock or another Bergen County community, spending time downtown can help you get a better feel for the area's businesses, amenities, and community atmosphere.

Why visit? Free admission, family entertainment, local shopping, and a chance to discover Glen Rock.

For event information, visit the Glen Rock Chamber of Commerce.

2. Abma's Farm Fall Hayrides and Pumpkin Picking, Wyckoff

Nothing says October in North Jersey quite like pumpkin picking and a traditional fall hayride.

Abma's Farm in Wyckoff offers a classic farm experience for families looking to enjoy the season.

Event details:

• Dates to check: Saturday, October 10 and Saturday, October 17, 2026

• Location: 700 Lawlins Road, Wyckoff, NJ

• Admission: Paid reservations required for hayrides and pumpkin picking

• Best for: Families with children, couples, and fall photography enthusiasts

Visitors can enjoy seasonal hayrides, pumpkin picking, and the atmosphere of a working Bergen County farm.

One important detail to know is that Abma's pumpkin patch is accessible by hayride only. You cannot simply walk into the patch.

That makes planning ahead especially important if you're bringing young children or visiting with someone who has mobility concerns.

Reservations and ticket packages should be reviewed before your visit. Confirm specific dates and departure times with the farm, since regular business hours do not necessarily reflect hayride availability. Sunday hayrides have not been confirmed.

Why visit? A classic fall family outing with pumpkins, fresh air, and seasonal memories.

Visit the Abma's Farm events page for current availability and reservations.

3. Pantophobia Haunted Trail, Mahwah

Looking for something scarier than a pumpkin patch?

Pantophobia Haunted Trail in Mahwah brings Halloween excitement to North Jersey with an outdoor haunted walking experience.

Event details:

• Dates: Saturday, October 10 and Sunday, October 11, 2026

• Time: 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM

• Location: Darlington Lake, 600 Darlington Avenue, Mahwah, NJ

• Admission: $33 per person, plus taxes and fees

• Best for: Teens, adults, and Halloween enthusiasts

This attraction features a one-mile outdoor trail filled with frightening scenes and live scare actors.

The experience takes approximately 35 to 40 minutes and includes walking on grass, sand, and pavement.

Wear comfortable shoes and arrive early. The organizer recommends arriving 15 minutes before your reserved entry time, and the walk from the parking area is relatively long.

This is not the best choice for very young children or visitors who prefer a relaxed Halloween activity. The attraction is designed to be scary.

If you're searching for Halloween events in Bergen County that offer a more intense experience, Pantophobia may be worth considering.

Why visit? A nighttime Halloween adventure for thrill-seekers looking for something different.

Tickets and information are available at Pantophobia's official website.

North Jersey Events for October 17–18, 2026

The following weekend brings more seasonal entertainment, including a charity Oktoberfest, a popular family Halloween event, and another free Bergen County street fair.

4. Fourth Annual CL7 Oktoberfest, Franklin Lakes, October 17

Looking for a fun Saturday evening while supporting a meaningful cause?

The Fourth Annual CL7 Oktoberfest in Franklin Lakes combines food, music, and community fundraising.

Event details:

• Date: Saturday, October 17, 2026

• Time: 7:00 PM

• Location: McBride Field, Franklin Lakes, NJ

• Admission: Ticket required, check organizer for current pricing

• Best for: Adults, couples, and community supporters

Hosted by the Charlie Landers Foundation, this event raises money to support the fight against Ewing sarcoma, a rare form of cancer.

Attendees can expect German-inspired ballpark food, beer, wine, and live music under a large event tent.

It's an opportunity to enjoy a festive evening while supporting cancer research and families affected by the disease.

After spending more than 15 years working in communities throughout North Jersey, I've come to appreciate the importance of local organizations and the people who support them.

Community involvement matters. It helps create the connections that make a neighborhood feel like home.

Why visit? Live entertainment, food, community spirit, and an opportunity to contribute to an important cause.

Learn more at the Charlie Landers Foundation Oktoberfest event page.

5. Zoo Boo 2026 at Bergen County Zoo, October 17–18

If you're searching for family-friendly Halloween events in North Jersey, Zoo Boo at Bergen County Zoo is one to consider.

Located inside Van Saun County Park in Paramus, this seasonal attraction combines Halloween decorations, trick-or-treating, and zoo experiences.

Event details:

• Dates: Friday, October 16 through Sunday, October 18, 2026

• Saturday, October 17: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM

• Sunday, October 18: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

• Location: Bergen County Zoo, 216 Forest Avenue, Paramus, NJ

• Admission: Tickets required, prices vary by ticket type

• Best for: Families, young children, and Halloween lovers

During Zoo Boo, visitors can explore a decorated zoo featuring Halloween attractions and trick-or-treat stations.

Daytime activities offer a more family-oriented experience, while evening attractions include a spooky train ride.

Parents with younger children may prefer daytime admission, especially if their kids aren't comfortable with scarier Halloween activities.

One important reminder: The Bergen County Zoo will be closed to regular visitors during Zoo Boo on October 16, 17, and 18. Only event ticket holders will be admitted.

The organizers have also listed October 23–25 as rain dates.

Tickets should be purchased in advance through the event's official ticketing links.

Why visit? Halloween entertainment, trick-or-treating, and a memorable family experience in Paramus.

For details and tickets, visit the Friends of Bergen County Zoo Zoo Boo page.

6. Fair Lawn Fall Street Fair & Craft Show, October 18

Another great free event in Bergen County is the Fair Lawn Fall Street Fair & Craft Show.

This outdoor community celebration brings shopping, food, entertainment, and family activities together.

Event details:

• Date: Sunday, October 18, 2026

• Time: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM

• Location: River Road and Fair Lawn Avenue, Fair Lawn, NJ

• Admission: Free

• Best for: Families, local shoppers, couples, and community residents

Visitors can browse handmade crafts, jewelry, artwork, and other products from participating vendors.

Live music, food stands, and activities for children make this an easy outing for people of different ages.

Fair Lawn is also one of the Bergen County communities that buyers often explore when considering a move to North Jersey.

Its residential neighborhoods, local parks, downtown businesses, and transportation options are worth getting to know.

Events like this give potential residents a chance to experience the community in a more personal way.

You can walk around, visit nearby businesses, and see what the area feels like on a busy fall afternoon.

Why visit? Free entertainment, local businesses, arts and crafts, and a family-friendly afternoon.

Check the Fair Lawn Street Fair event listing for more information.

Free Things to Do in North Jersey in October 2026

You don't have to spend a lot of money to enjoy a weekend in North Jersey.

Two events on this list offer free general admission:

• Glen Rock Street Fair: Sunday, October 11, 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

• Fair Lawn Fall Street Fair: Sunday, October 18, 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Both provide opportunities to enjoy live entertainment, explore local businesses, and spend time outdoors without purchasing an admission ticket.

Of course, food, shopping, and optional activities may cost extra.

If you're visiting North Jersey with children or simply want an affordable weekend activity, these events are great starting points.

Best Family-Friendly Fall Activities in Bergen County

October offers plenty of opportunities for families to spend time together before the colder weather arrives.

If you're deciding between the attractions featured in this guide, here are my suggestions.

Best for Young Children: Zoo Boo and Abma's Farm

For younger kids, I would start with Abma's Farm or the daytime Zoo Boo experience.

Pumpkin picking and hayrides offer a traditional fall outing.

Zoo Boo provides a Halloween-themed experience with decorations and trick-or-treating.

Both can make for a memorable family day, but check reservations, accessibility, and ticket availability before leaving home.

Best Free Family Outing: Glen Rock and Fair Lawn Street Fairs

If you want to get outside without paying admission, the Glen Rock and Fair Lawn street fairs are excellent choices.

They're also good opportunities for kids to experience community activities and local businesses.

Best for Teens and Adults: Pantophobia

For those who enjoy scary movies, haunted houses, and Halloween thrills, Pantophobia offers something more intense.

Because this attraction includes uneven outdoor walking surfaces and frightening content, review the organizer's recommendations before booking.

Best Adults' Night Out: CL7 Oktoberfest

For adults looking for an evening with music, food, and a charitable purpose, the CL7 Oktoberfest is another option worth exploring.

What Makes North Jersey a Great Place to Live?

One of the questions I often help buyers work through is where they should purchase their next home.

Some people focus on commute times. Others prioritize property size, neighborhood amenities, schools, or access to parks.

Those details matter. But I also encourage buyers to explore the communities they're considering.

I've worked in North Jersey real estate for more than 15 years, and I've seen how different towns offer different lifestyles.

Someone looking for an active downtown environment may have different priorities from a buyer who wants a quiet residential street and nearby parks.

That's why I believe getting familiar with a community before purchasing a home is so valuable.

Bergen County: Downtowns, Parks, and Community Events

Bergen County offers a wide variety of neighborhoods and lifestyles.

Places such as Glen Rock, Fair Lawn, Wyckoff, Franklin Lakes, and Paramus have their own character.

You can find traditional suburban neighborhoods, local shopping districts, recreational areas, and established community organizations.

October events provide another way to explore these towns and learn what makes them different.

If you're considering purchasing a home in Bergen County, these outings may help you narrow down which communities you want to explore further.

Passaic County: History, Culture, and Neighborhood Character

Growing up in Paterson gave me an appreciation for the history and diversity of Passaic County.

From Paterson and Clifton to Wayne, Totowa, Woodland Park, and North Haledon, each community offers something different.

Passaic County has historic destinations, public parks, local restaurants, cultural traditions, and neighborhoods with distinct personalities.

As a real estate agent serving Clifton, NJ, and Paterson, NJ, I believe it's important to help clients understand both the property and the surrounding area.

Buying a home is a major financial decision. But it's also a lifestyle decision.

Discover Homes for Sale in North Jersey

If one of these communities catches your attention, take the next step and explore available properties.

You can view featured North Jersey homes for sale to see available real estate opportunities.

Whether you're looking for a single-family home, condominium, or multifamily investment property, understanding your options is the first step.

Thinking About Selling Your North Jersey Home This Fall?

October isn't just a great time for community events. It's also a time when homeowners begin thinking about their plans for the remainder of the year and the year ahead.

Maybe you're considering downsizing.

Maybe you've outgrown your current home.

Or perhaps you've inherited a property and aren't sure what to do next.

Every situation is different, and the right decision starts with understanding your options.

Find Out What Your Home Is Worth

If you own property in Bergen County, Passaic County, or another North Jersey community, knowing its current market value can help you plan your next move.

You can request a North Jersey home value evaluation to get started.

An evaluation can help you better understand local comparable sales, current competition, and how your property's condition may affect its potential selling price.

Selling an Inherited Home in New Jersey

As a Probate Certified Specialist, I also work with families navigating inherited property sales.

These situations can involve estate paperwork, multiple heirs, property maintenance, and important timing considerations.

If you've inherited a house and need guidance about the real estate side of the process, visit my New Jersey probate real estate resource page.

Facing Mortgage Challenges or Considering a Short Sale?

Some homeowners may also be dealing with financial hardship or mortgage difficulties.

As a Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource certified real estate professional, I help homeowners explore real estate options when selling a property becomes more complicated.

If this describes your situation, learn more about short sale assistance in North Jersey.

The earlier you understand your options, the more time you may have to make an informed decision.

Tips for Planning Your North Jersey Weekend

Before heading out to one of these October events, a little preparation can make your experience more enjoyable.

• Check the weather: Many fall festivals and Halloween attractions take place outdoors.

• Confirm event details: Start times, available activities, and operating schedules can change.

• Reserve tickets early: Zoo Boo, Pantophobia, and Abma's Farm activities may require advance booking.

• Arrive early: Popular street fairs can attract large crowds and create parking challenges.

• Dress for fall weather: October temperatures in North Jersey can feel comfortable during the day and cooler after sunset.

• Plan around your children: Choose age-appropriate activities, especially when considering haunted attractions.

• Support local businesses: Consider shopping or eating at nearby businesses while attending an event.

If you're visiting a town because you're considering moving there, give yourself a little extra time.

Walk around the neighborhood, look at nearby parks, and explore the shopping areas.

You'll learn more about the community by experiencing it firsthand than you will from looking at property photos alone.

Frequently Asked Questions About North Jersey Weekend Events

What are the best things to do in North Jersey on October 10–11, 2026?

Some of the top options include the Glen Rock Street Fair on October 11, Pantophobia Haunted Trail in Mahwah on October 10–11, and seasonal pumpkin picking and hayrides at Abma's Farm in Wyckoff, subject to reservation availability.

Are there free events in Bergen County this October?

Yes. The Glen Rock Street Fair on October 11 and Fair Lawn Fall Street Fair on October 18 both offer free general admission. Purchases from participating vendors cost extra.

Where can families go pumpkin picking in North Jersey?

Abma's Farm in Wyckoff offers seasonal pumpkin picking and hayride experiences. The pumpkin patch is accessible by hayride only, and reservations are required. Check the farm's official calendar for available dates.

What Halloween events are happening in Bergen County in October 2026?

Pantophobia Haunted Trail in Mahwah operates on select nights throughout October. Bergen County Zoo also hosts Zoo Boo from October 16–18, offering Halloween-themed activities and trick-or-treating.

What events are happening in North Jersey on October 17–18, 2026?

Highlights include the CL7 Oktoberfest in Franklin Lakes on October 17, Zoo Boo at Bergen County Zoo on October 17–18, the Fair Lawn Fall Street Fair on October 18, and Pantophobia Haunted Trail on both evenings.

What are some fun date ideas in North Jersey this October?

Couples might enjoy browsing the Glen Rock or Fair Lawn street fairs, visiting a fall farm attraction, attending the CL7 Oktoberfest, or experiencing Pantophobia Haunted Trail together.

Is North Jersey a good place to live for families?

North Jersey offers many communities with access to parks, recreational facilities, local businesses, transportation, and seasonal events. The right fit depends on your budget, housing needs, commute, and lifestyle preferences.

Exploring local activities can help you decide which areas match what you're looking for.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy Everything North Jersey Has to Offer This October

Living in North Jersey means having access to more than just a place to call home.

It's about the memories you create, the local businesses you support, the communities you become part of, and the experiences you share with family and friends.

Whether you're enjoying the Glen Rock Street Fair, picking pumpkins in Wyckoff, visiting Zoo Boo in Paramus, or exploring Halloween attractions in Mahwah, there's plenty to do during these October weekends.

As someone who was born and raised in Paterson and has spent more than 15 years helping people buy and sell homes across North Jersey, I know how important it is to find a community that fits your life.

The right home matters, but so does the life you build around it.

If you're thinking about buying, selling, relocating, or investing in North Jersey real estate, I'd be happy to help you explore your options.

Schedule your real estate consultation with Johnny Rodriguez today.

Johnny Rodriguez | Realty ONE Group Legend

AI-Certified Realtor | ABR | SFR | Probate Certified Specialist

Serving Clifton, Paterson, Passaic County, Bergen County, and surrounding North Jersey communities.

Where Cutting-Edge AI Meets Genuine Expertise.

Event information updated October 9, 2026. Dates and times are based on published organizer information. Admission availability, weather conditions, and activities may change. Verify details with each event organizer before attending.