The best things in life really are free, especially when it comes to family activities. In this new monthly feature, Mommy Poppins NJ presents the best FREE events happening in the upcoming weeks. This month, you can look forward to plenty of free storytimes and festivals, and, of course, a ton of Halloween fun. And speaking of that haunting holiday, check out our list of 30 Free Halloween Events and Parades for NJ Kids for even more ways to celebrate without cracking open your wallet.

Read on for this month's picks, and don't forget to check out our Event Calendar and October GoList for more free and low-cost fall fun.

Nestled between two urban downtowns is a gem of a play area known as Newport Green Park. Created in 2012 as part of Jersey City’s revitalization, this peaceful oasis boasts an imaginative playground, the Hudson River’s only man-made beach, and a walkway to Hoboken, all with the Manhattan skyline as a backdrop. This day trip–worthy park is also home to a carousel and splash pad.

As we head into the second month of winter, parents across the state are looking for some indoor action that will keep the kids both happy and warm. While it can be fun to try something new each week, some of us like the comfort of returning to a familiar spot where we know our kids will have a blast. Many places offer family memberships that will keep your entertainment costs down while giving you a break from wondering how on earth you're going to entertain the children. 

We've rounded up the best deals at 13 indoor destinations, and we've even done the math—so you know exactly how many visits it will take for your investment to pay off.

We all have our favorite holiday traditions, whether it's viewing annual light displays, cutting down a Christmas tree, or having breakfast with Santa. All good stuff, to be sure. But if you're thinking you might like to mix up your holiday adventures a bit, check out some of these, shall we say, "off the beaten path" ideas. We've got activities that will take you on a boat, to an alpaca farm, and even back in time. Because sometimes parents need to throw something new into the mix to keep kids on their toes. And who knows? One of them might become a new favorite. For even more ways to celebrate the season, check out the December GoList and our Holiday Guide.

The holiday season is about to get a lot brighter! New Jersey will be ringing in the holiday season with some big-time fun and festive tree and menorah lighting celebrations. While many towns throughout the state host their own celebratory events, we’ve highlighted some destination lighting spectaculars that pull out all the stops. And best of all, these events are FREE to attend (some may accept donations as noted). 

For more holiday excitement, including breakfasts with Santa and holiday shows, visit our Holiday Guide. 

What is it about summer that makes even the most uptight parent want to bend the rules a bit? Like healthy dinner rules? How about ice cream for dinner? Go ahead....we won't tell. As temperatures sore to sweltering heights, and we look for new ways to cool down, ice cream has become a must-have. And as luck would have it, our state has some delicious ice cream joints!

Whether you’re looking to dazzle your taste buds with a quirky flavor or go for an old-fashioned milkshake, we've rounded up a list of amazing ice cream shops that will have New Jersey kids and parents celebrating all that is summer.

From beaches to amusements to water parks, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventure in New Jersey this summer. If you’re looking for something new and different to spice up your summer bucket list, you’re in luck. New and improved outdoor experiences are popping up throughout the state. Check out these five fun newcomers to the New Jersey summer scene.

Spring is in full bloom, and it’s the perfect time of year to dig into gardening. Planting flowers or vegetables is a hobby the whole family can enjoy together. Through gardening, young growers can learn about nature, the environment and nurturing living things. And, of course, they’ll love playing in the dirt. Check out these opportunities throughout our Garden State for children learn gardening basics and develop a green thumb.