All Weekend

The Lighthouse Challenge of New Jersey (various locations in NJ)

New Jersey lighthouses have played an important role in our state's history, guiding mariners and protecting coasts for over a century. On October 20th and 21st, NJ residents and visitors will have a chance to explore these historic beacons and raise money for their conservation. Participating lighthouses include Barnegat, Finns Point & Hereford Inlet with night climbs at Absecon, Cape May, Sandy Hook, Tinicum & Tuckerton. For a complete listing of lighthouses and operating hours, please visit www.lighthousechallengenj.org. Cost varies depending on lighthouse. Saturday & Sunday at various times. (732) 477-6507

The Chatsworth Cranberry Festival (Chatsworth, NJ)

Chatsworth's annual cranberry festival is a celebration of New Jersey's cranberry harvest and a tribute to the Pine Barrens region of our state, as well as the local culture. Enjoy a diverse array of works and products by local artists and craftsman. An antique car show will also take place during Sunday's festival, featuring over 100 automobiles. FREE admission. $5 donation for parking. Saturday & Sunday 9am-4pm.

Rock, Mineral and Gem Show (Mountainside, NJ)

Grab your little explorer and head to Mountainside for the Rock, Mineral and Gem Show this Saturday & Sunday. Get in some early holiday shopping and browse fossils, gems and festive jewelry from around the world. Sunday's festivities include demonstrations of gemstone cutting and polishing, educational rock and mineral displays in addition to free face painting, fossil touch tables and puzzles to keep kids entertained. FREE admission. Saturday 12-5pm, Sunday 11am-5pm. 908-789-3670

Last Fling Pumpkin Sling (Washington, NJ)

Millbrook Farm is once again holding their fun & quirky Pumpkin Sling. This hometown autumn celebration involves - you guessed it - catapulting pumpkins across an open field using a slinging contraption. Older kids will get a kick out of the good-natured competition, cheering as huge orange pumpkins fly through the air. The festival also includes hot air balloons, paragliding demonstrations, food vendors and entertainment by Brady the Class Clown. $6/Adult, $4/Kids ages 5-12, Kids under 4 are FREE. Saturday & Sunday 9am-6pm.

Saturday October 20th

Children's SPOOKtacular Magic Show (Dover, NJ)

Scott Morley, the Wonderfun magician and illusionist, will perform this Saturday at the Little Theater in Dover. The show promises plenty of tricks and treats for wee ones and fun audience participation too. Kids are encouraged to get into the Halloween spirit and come in costume! Advance reservations are recommended. $5/Adults & Children. Show times at 1pm & 4pm. 973-328-9202

Small Factory Halloween Party (Fairhaven, NJ)

Small Factory Productions is hosting a Halloween party from 12:30-2:30pm with crafts, refreshments and games. Best of all, every guest is invited to make a 'Sing your Own Spooky CD' with DJ Party Music Master Matt Cook. Children can come dressed in costume - all ghosts, goblins, superheroes and princesses are welcome. Be sure to call ahead and reserve your spot. Event is FREE. $25 to create your own CD. 732-212-1088

Monmouth Beach Scarecrow Festival (Monmouth Beach, NJ)

If you're looking for the ultimate fall shindig, the Monmouth Beach Scarecrow Festival won't disappoint. In addition to their kooky scarecrow contest (where individuals, corporate groups and schools can enter), they've got pumpkin painting, apple pie and cupcake competitions and a farmers market filled with the season's harvest. The festival has expanded this year to include a chili cook-off, a canine costume parade and good old-fashioned bobbing for apples. FREE admission. 1-4pm.

Dinosaurs After Dark (Secaucus, NJ)

If life-sized replicas of dinosaurs weren't impressive enough, now Field Station: Dinosaurs is giving adventurous families a chance to see Dinos in the dark. Armed with just a flashlight and rope to lead the way, your imagination will run wild as you 'discover' the giant creatures in the moonlight. Other after dark activities include a dinosaur sing-a-long and a campfire complete with roasted s'mores. $39/Adults & Children, $25/Groups & Season Pass Holders. Begins at 7pm. 800-291-9264

Sunday October 21st

American Girl Fashion Show (Monroe Township, NJ)

Moms and daughters will love this special fashion show as they peek into the past to see American Girl styles and how clothing has evolved with each generation. American Girl will conclude the show by presenting the latest trends for holidays, school and playtime. Enjoy snacks, goodie bags, a raffle and auction. All proceeds benefit the Special Olympics of New Jersey. $35-$45/Person. Show times at 10am, 1:30pm & 4:30pm. 609-896-8000

Afternoon Tea with My Doll & Me (Westfield, NJ)

Bring your favorite doll to Just Bead Me this Sunday for a delightful afternoon with tea, cookies and lemonade. After sampling the delicious snacks, bead specialists with help guests create matching beaded jewelry for both themselves and their doll. Advance registration is required. $35/Child. 1:30-3:30pm. 908-232-3411

Harvest Festival (Jersey City, NJ)

Stevens Cooperative School presents its 14th Annual Harvest Festival on October 21st at the Market Oval and Newport Campus in Jersey City. This community event and block party offers food vendors, kids games and family activities. The event is open to the public. Ticket sales for food and games benefit the Stevens Cooperative School. FREE admission plus cost of food & games. 11am-4pm.

Don't forget: We have additional activity listings in our Event Calendar.  And if you are heading into NYC for the weekend make sure you visit the New York City Mommy Poppins events calendar  to get the latest on all the fun to be had NYC-style.

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