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The Ridgefield Park Downtown Street Fair has lots to see and do, including music, food, games, and rides. Photo courtesy of JC Promotions
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10/3/23 - By Laurie Rein

No tricks here, just treats: We've rounded up dozens of FREE events for NJ kids and families in October. Save your money for candy and costumes, and load up on dozens of no-cost events every day of the month. Food, crafts, and fall fun are on tap at harvest festivals, including the Dunellen HarvestFest and Hoboken Harvest Festival, plus community fairs like Maplewood and Seton Hall Weekend.

October comes to a close with the main event of the season: Halloween. Throw on those costumes and head over to FREE celebrations, including trunk-or-treats in Wildwood and Dover and annual favorites like Cape May's Boo at the Zoo.

Read on for this month's gratis picks! For more FREE and low-cost fun, check out Free Halloween Events in New Jersey our Family Activity Calendar, as well as our Fall Fun Guide for New Jersey Kids and Halloween Events and Guide for NJ Kids.

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OUR LATEST VIDEOS

Free Things To Do from Tuesday, October 3-Sunday, October 8, 2023

Free Halloween Drive-Thru at Stew Leonard’s

Paramus
Daily through Tuesday, October 31, 2023
Stew Leonard’s in Paramus hosts a daily drive-thru Halloween celebration. Cars follow a path through family-friendly Halloween-themed scenes featuring cutout characters and animatronics, located in the parking lot just steps from Stew’s pumpkin patch. READ MORE

Ridgefield Park Jazz Fest Street Fair

Ridgefield
Saturday, October 7, 2023
The annual Ridgefield Park Street Fair features quality exhibitors selling assorted items, a special arts and crafts section, entertainment, kiddie rides and games, great festival foods and food trucks, and more. Don't miss two stages of live music. READ MORE

Princeton Children's Book Festival

Princeton
Saturday, October 7, 2023
The annual Children's Book Festival welcomes children's book authors and illustrators to Hinds Plaza. Families can meet the people behind some of their favorite stories, get books signed and chat about literary inspiration.  READ MORE

Readington Hop Farms Oktoberfest

Neshanic Station
Saturday, October 7-Sunday, October 8, 2023
Readington Hop Farm hosts a weekend-long Oktoberfest. Readington Brewery offers specialty Oktoberfest beers while craft vendors provide treats on the farm. Enjoy German food and attire contests, plus music by Cosmic Jerry READ MORE

Matawan Day

Matawan
Saturday, October 7, 2023
Head over to Matawan for an afternoon of music, food, vendors, kids' activities, and more. Plus, don't miss pumpkin-decorating, eating contests, balloon animals and a beer and wine garden. READ MORE

Hightstown Harvest Fair & Tricentennial

Hightstown
Saturday, October 7, 2023
The Hightstown Harvest Fair promises a day filled with local artists and crafters, small businesses, live entertainment, great food, and children’s rides and activities. READ MORE

Ocean County YMCA Fall Festival

Toms River
Saturday, October 7, 2023
Pumpkin decorating, face painting, inflatables, K9 demos, health screenings and more are all part of the fall fun at Ocean County YMCA.  READ MORE

Oktoberfest in Historic Smithville

Galloway
Saturday, October 7-Sunday, October 8, 2023
Historic Smithville’s famous Oktoberfest has more than 150 juried crafters, an international food court, music, kids’ activities, nonprofit organizations, and more. READ MORE

Journey Through The Past

various locations
Saturday, October 7-Sunday, October 8, 2023
Make a vibrant connection to history at Somerset County's 18th annual Journey Through the Past. Bring the whole family to explore the vast history of Somerset County and discover what life was like 50, 100, or even 200 years ago. READ MORE

Morristown Festival of Books

Morristown
Saturday, October 7, 2023
The Morristown Festival of Books presents more than 100 award-winning and bestselling authors who speak and answer questions at five locales in historic Morristown. Kidfest features 50+ authors and illustrators who meet fans and sign books throughout the day. READ MORE

Newton Fall Festival

Newton
Sunday, October 8, 2023
The town of Newton and the Greater Newton Chamber of Commerce team up for this ninth annual family-friendly fall festival along Spring Street. Enjoy live music, classic cars, children's activities, and food during the festivities. READ MORE

Fannywood Day Street Fair

Fanwood
Sunday, October 8 2023
Fannywood Day features various vendors and activities, including a Kids Zone with a trackless train, a petting zoo, pony rides, and numerous rides. Plus, don't miss all the great contests, including a scavenger hunt, pizza eating, ice cream eating, bubble blowing, and a water balloon toss. READ MORE

Dunellen HarvestFest

Dunellen
Sunday, October 8 2023
The 12th annual Dunellen HarvestFest features artists and crafters from around the Garden State, local nonprofits, activities for kids, food, music, dancing, and more. READ MORE
Take in the fun and artistic additions to Cranford's annual Scarecrow Stroll. Photo courtesy of Downtown Cranford
Take in the fun and artistic additions to Cranford's annual Scarecrow Stroll. Photo courtesy of Downtown Cranford

Free Things To Do from Monday, October 9-Sunday, October 15, 2023

Seton Hall Weekend

South Orange.
Friday, October 13-Sunday, October 15, 2023
Head to Seton Hall University for a fun weekend celebration of community spirit and of the close ties enjoyed by alumni, students, faculty, staff, and neighbors. Enjoy outdoor performances, crafts, rides, carnival games, theater performances, tours, and sporting events. READ MORE

17th Annual Scarecrow Stroll

Cranford
Friday, October 13-Tuesday, October 31, 2023
Cranford hosts its Annual Scarecrow Stroll and promises the event is the biggest and best yet. Gawk at more than 100 wild and crazy scarecrows on display throughout downtown Cranford. Register online to create your own scarecrow and enter to win prizes.  READ MORE

30th Annual Pine Barrens Jamboree

Waretown
Saturday, October 14, 2023
Enjoy music, cultural demonstrations, nature and history programs, food vendors, and more at this celebratory event.  READ MORE

Haunts 4Heroes

Franklinville
Saturday, October 14, 2023
Have a great time at this Halloween-themed event, featuring family-friendly spooky decorations and fun activities. Bring bags for trick or treating throughout the stable and among vendors. Costumes are welcome. READ MORE

Irish Festival at Historic Smithville

Galloway
Saturday, October 14-Sunday, October 15, 2023
The annual Irish festival at Historic Smithville offers two stages of live music throughout the day. As part of this amazing festival sponsored by the Cape Atlantic Irish Association, you can peruse an Irish market, enjoy children’s activities, and eat at a food court. READ MORE

Maplewood Art Walk & Music Fest

Maplewood
Sunday, October 15, 2023
Maplewood's art scene comes alive with the works of local artists, plus live music, children's activities and art competitions. It's a perfect opportunity to check out Maplewood's local shops and eateries.  READ MORE

Fall Festival at Camp Veritans

Haledon
Sunday, October 15, 2023
Camp Veritans' Fall Festival is packed with family friendly activities. The fun includes inflatables, snacks, kickball, pumpkin picking, NFL games on the big screen, camp tours and more.  READ MORE

Feria de Sevilla

Woodbridge
Sunday, October 15, 2023
Join New Jersey’s premier Spanish & Flamenco Dance Company, the critically acclaimed Alborada Spanish Dance Theatre, as it transports you to the famous Spanish fair, La Feria de Sevilla. Immerse yourself in Spain's vibrant colors, sights, sounds, tastes and smells.  READ MORE
Boo at the Boardwalk returns to Jenkinson's for another year of Halloween fun. Photo courtesy of Jenkinson's
Boo at the Boardwalk returns to Jenkinson's for another year of Halloween fun. Photo courtesy of Jenkinson's

Free Things To Do from Monday, October 16-Sunday, October 23, 2023

Gardens Aglow

Montclair
Friday, October 20, 2023
The Presby Memorial Iris Gardens come alive for one night only this Halloween season. Visitors can see a display of artfully carved jack-o'-lanterns provided by art students at local high schools. READ MORE

Halloween Parade & Dance Party in Sea Isle City

Sea Isle City
Friday, October 20, 2023
This lively local parade features music, strolling entertainers, floats, local organizations, and many well-costumed revelers. Following the parade, stick around for the Halloween Family Dance Party.   READ MORE

Chatsworth Cranberry Festival

Chatsworth
Saturday, October 21-Sunday, October 22, 2023
Considered one of the best festivals in the Mid-Atlantic region, the Chatsworth Cranberry Festival is a colorful and fun-filled celebration of the fall cranberry harvest. Enjoy delicious cranberry delights, hundreds of vendors, and non-stop musical entertainment. READ MORE

Hoboken Harvest Festival

Springfield
Saturday, October 21, 2023
Free activities include pony rides, pumpkin painting, hayrides, a trackless train, music, a hay maze, face painting, a moonwalk, balloon art, craft activities, and more. READ MORE

Boo at the Boardwalk

Point Pleasant
Saturdays and Sundays, from Saturday, October 21-Sunday, October 29. 2023
Celebrate Halloween at Jenkinson's Boardwalk with two weekends of family fun, including trick-or-treating, crafts, a magic show, the Witch Sister Trio of Treats, and more. READ MORE

Scream on the Green

Summit
Saturday, October 21, 2023
Dare to venture into the night and have some haunting-ly good entertainment and ghoulish goodies at Scream on the Green. The featured movie is Hocus Pocus 2.  READ MORE

Halloween Celebration in Union

Union
Saturday, October 21, 2023
The township of Union is going all out for Halloween this year with a trunk or treat plus an evening food truck festival. The trunk or treat features 30 vehicles and takes place from 1pm-4pm at Jefferson School parking lot. A prize is awarded for the best decorated. READ MORE

Unexpected Farm Trunk or Treat

Newfield
Saturday, October 21, 2023
Gather at the farm for candy, vendors, tractor rides, pumpkin painting, and crafts.  READ MORE

Dover Trunk or Treat

Dover
Saturday, October 21, 2023
The Town of Dover celebrates Halloween with its 14th annual trunk or treat. Collect goodies at Crescent Field Parking Lot. Don't miss the costume and trunk-decorating contests. READ MORE

Costume Pet Parade

Galloway
Saturday, October 21, 2023
Paw Dazzle hosts the Annual Costume Pet Parade, Historic Smithville’s cutest event. Spectators can watch 100+ pets show off their unique Halloween costumes. READ MORE

Halloween Fun at Casino Pier Arcade

Seaside Heights
Saturday, October 21, 2023
It's Halloween at Casino Pier Arcade. Come dressed in your Halloween costume and trick or treat throughout the property. READ MORE

Marlboro Day

Marlboro
Sunday, October 22, 2023
Now in its 40th year, Marlboro Township Recreation hosts a day of free activities, with rides, vendors, food, entertainment, and more.  READ MORE

Cape May Halloween Parade

Cape May
Sunday, October 22, 2023
Show off your costume in this annual parade that concludes at the Cape May MAC. Prizes are awarded by age group, plus categories like Best Witch, Silliest and Best TV or Movie Character.  READ MORE
Conjure up your best witch costume for Witches Day Out at Historic Smithville. Photo courtesy of Historic Smithville
Conjure up your best witch costume for Witches Day Out at Historic Smithville. Photo courtesy of Historic Smithville

Free Things To Do from Monday, October 23-Tuesday October 31, 2023

2nd Annual Trunk or Treat at S. Delsea Drive

Glassboro
Wednesday, October 25, 2023
Peruse creatively decorated trunks, featuring local families, businesses, and first responder vehicles, all filled with delicious candy and treats. Families can indulge in carnival-style food and snacks. READ MORE

Dia De Lost Muertos: Day of the Dead Celebration 2023

Washington
Thursday, October 26, 2023
Dia De Lost Muertos: Day of the Dead Celebration returns to Downtown Washington, featuring a traditional Mariachi Band, free sugar skull face painting, artisan, and local vendors. Send a message to your deceased loved ones in the fire pit. READ MORE

Ocean City Halloween Parade

Ocean City
Thursday, October 26, 2023
Feast your eyes on creative costumes and floats, antique vehicles, and cheerleading and dance teams. READ MORE

Mount Laurel Trunk-or-Treat

Mount Laurel
Friday, October 27, 2023
Stop by the Chick-fil-A parking lot and peruse trunks filled with treats. READ MORE

Trick-or-Treat Around the Park

Freehold
Friday, October 27, 2023
Come for a free night of spooktacular fun at iPlay America. Enjoy the trick-or-treat trail, enter the costume contest, win raffle giveaways, and more. READ MORE

Belmar Costume Contest and Trunk or Treat

Belmar
Friday, October 27, 2023
Double the Halloween fun with a parade and trunk or treat in the Dempsey Park lot. Prizes are awarded for the funniest, scariest, and most original costumes. READ MORE

Boo at the Zoo in Cape May

Cape May
Saturday, October 28, 2023
Visitors of all ages are invited to come in costume to this annual Halloween event sponsored by the Cape May County Board of Commissioners. Enjoy kid-friendly fun, candy, entertainment, plenty of animals, an inflatable obstacle course, a pirate ship, and more.  READ MORE

Elmwood Park Community Day with Fireworks

Elmwood Park
Saturday, October 28, 2023
This giant block party features quality exhibitors selling a selection of assorted items, a special arts & crafts section, live entertainment, kiddie rides and games, great festival foods and food trucks, and more.  READ MORE

Downtown Bernardsville Trunk-or-Treat

Bernardsville
Saturday, October 28, 2023
Celebrate Halloween at this annual trunk-or-treat for all ages. Community members decorate a trunk, displaying themes or other festive decor, and hand out candy or other non-candy trinkets. Plus, score treats at downtown businesses. READ MORE

North Wildwood Trunk-or-Treat Halloween Block Party

North Wildwood
Saturday, October 28, 2023
Get your car decked out for Halloween at this annual festive family event. Costumed children can visit each car, where families will provide treats from the trunks. Balloon twisting and magic add to the fun.  READ MORE

Strut Your Mutt: Canine Halloween Costume Contest

Montclair
Saturday, October 28, 2023
The annual Strut Your Mutt: Canine Halloween Costume Contest lets local dog owners show off their creative talents, celebrate their pets, and share a happy occasion with other dog owners. READ MORE

Hillsborough Howl-O-Ween

Hillsborough
Saturday, October 28, 2023
Pups are the stars of this Halloween parade at Ann Van Middlesworth Dog Park. Cheer on costumed dogs as they compete for prizes. Vendors round out the fun. READ MORE

Monster Bash in Historic Smithville

Galloway
Saturday, October 28, 2023
Historic Smithville invites visitors to enjoy vendors and music throughout the day leading up to its evening Zombie Walk. Show up ready in full costume and makeup. Horror Queen Genoveva Rossi signs autographs all day. READ MORE

Morven Harvest Festival

Morven
Saturday, October 28, 2023
Fall back in time, and celebrate the harvest with free music and activities for the whole family at Morven. Attendees can visit Morven’s gardens to help harvest vegetables and take part in hands-on activities including spooky season crafts. READ MORE

Halloween Fun at Casino Pier Arcade

Seaside Heights
Saturday, October 28, 2023
It's Halloween at Casino Pier Arcade. Come dressed in your Halloween costume and trick or treat throughout the property. READ MORE

2023 Fall Harvest at the Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA

Scotch Plains
Saturday, October 28, 2023
Discover fall fun at the Y's annual Fall Harvest event which is free for the community. The day is filled with fall-themed activities that the whole family can enjoy, including trackless train rides, pumpkin patch and decorating, arts and crafts, games, fitness fun, healthy treats, and more. READ MORE

Morris Township's Annual Trunk-or-Treat and Halloween Movie

Morris Township
Saturday, October 28, 2023
A big screen movie plus trunk or treat make for a fun day in Morris Township. Collect treats from trunks on Dwyer Lane, then gather for a showing of Scooby Doo on Ginty Field at dusk. READ MORE

Avalon Trunk or Treat

Amazon
Saturday, October 28, 2023
Enjoy an evening of fun with decked out cars full of treats. Come in costume! READ MORE

Halloween Spooktacular: Spooky New Jersey

Trenton
Saturday, October 28, 2023
Get ready for this year's Spooky New Jersey themed-event, featuring scavenger hunts, craft activities, games, a free Planetarium program and the annual costume parade. READ MORE

New Providence Annual Street Fair

New Providence
Sunday, October 29, 2023
The New Providence Street Fair promises a day of fun for the entire family. The streets are filled with various exhibits, vendors, and activities. Expect kiddie rides, a climbing wall, pony rides, a petting zoo, face painting, sand art, temporary tattoos, and so much more.  READ MORE

Witches Day Out at Historic Smithville

Galloway
Sunday, October 29, 2023
Get spooked as Historic Smithville hosts Witch’s Day Out. Wear your witch’s hat and enter the hat contest. Plus, enjoy a scavenger hunt, raffles and a parade. READ MORE

Mays Landing Halloween Parade

Mays Landing
Monday, October 30, 2023
Head over to Main Street and cheer on a stream of costumes, floats, and performances in the Mays Landing Halloween Parade. The performance area is in front of War Memorial Park. READ MORE

Downtown Morristown Trick-or-Treat

Morristown
Tuesday, October 31, 2023
Costumed cuties are invited to trick-or-treat at local businesses throughout downtown Morristown. READ MORE

Hoboken Ragamuffin Parade and Costume Contest

Hoboken
Tuesday, October 31, 2023
The Hoboken Ragamuffin Parade features local live music, floats, lots of great costumes, and so much more. Wear your Halloween best! READ MORE

Trick or Treat at Physick Estate

Cape May
Tuesday, October 31, 2023
Spooky characters greet Halloween visitors to the Physick Estate. Kids in costume should bring their trick-or-treat bags for candy. Enjoy Halloween music and Scarecrow Alley as well.  READ MORE

Hometown Halloween in Washington Borough

Washington
Tuesday, October 31, 2023
Bring the family trick-or-treating at Hometown Halloween in Downtown Washington. The fun includes prizes for best costumes, a DJ playing spooky tunes, and festive pumpkins entered by the businesses for the pumpkin-decorating contest. READ MORE

Places featured in this article:

Princeton Public Library
Somerset County
Wells Mills County Park
Maplewood Village
Downtown Chatsworth
Jefferson School Parking Lot
Marlboro Municipal Complex
Perry Street and Carpenter Lane
6th Street & Asbury Avenue
INTEX Millwork Solutions Parking Lot
Downtown Morristown