Bobby Chez offers to-go options for Thanksgiving dinner in Cherry Hill.
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Join a magical trip on the Polar Express powered by the Morristown & Erie Railway. Photo courtesy of the railway
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Step into a world of wonder at LuminoCity's 2024 holiday lights festival in Freehold. Photo courtesy of the festival
21 Must-Do Christmas Events and Holiday Activities in New Jersey for Kids
Outhouse orchards corn maze
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Spend a day running around at Johnson's Corner Farm this November. Photo courtesy of the farm
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Demarest Farms is adorned with holiday lights this season as its popular Orchard of Lights returns for another holiday run. Photo courtesy of the farm
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Holiday and Thanksgiving volunteer opportunities abound in New Jersey.
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Johnson's Locust Hill Farm is a picture perfect backdrop for a stroll through sunflowers. Photo by Cody Conk
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The Funplex has two New Jersey locations for families to explore and enjoy.
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Visit the petting zoo at Alstede Farms for a chance to meet the animals. Photo by Rose Gordon Sala
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Get drawn into the art at the Morris Museum next time you're looking for indoor activities for kids in New Jersey. Photo by Kaylynn Chiarello Ebner
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Beyond the casinos, Atlantic City is an all-ages playground, with Island Waterpark, boardwalk amusements, beach access, and more fun.
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Hang out with the giant hippos at Camden's Adventure Aquarium. Photo by Kaylynn Chiarello Ebner
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The Rainforest Cafe has two family-friendly restaurants in New Jersey. A meal out here is part adventure, part restaurant.
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Palmer Square is a great place to relax in the heart of Princeton. Photo courtesy of Palmer Square
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The accessible playground at Watsessing Park works for children of all abilities. Photo by Margaret Hargrove
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Pet baby goats on a visit to Brookhollow's Barnyard in Boonton. Photo by Kaylynn Ebner
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Bounce, climb, and jump at BounceU in Paramus, one of our top indoor play spaces in northern New Jersey.
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At a Bach to Rock birthday party, kids can sing karaoke or record their own CD.
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Help your kids develop their creative side with art classes
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At Genius Gems in Millburn, kids under 2 get in free with an older sibling.
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Admission to the Cape May County Park & Zoo is completely free. Photo courtesy of the zoo
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Nickelodeon Universe is one of the can't-miss destinations at American Dream Mall in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo courtesy of the venue
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Bounce, climb, and jump at BounceU in Paramus, one of our top indoor play spaces in northern New Jersey.
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New Jersey kids can find free fun climbing the pirate ship at the free Garden State Plaza Westfield mall. Photo by Mommy Poppins
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Hike the Appalachian Trail—72 miles are n New Jersey! Photo courtesy of Visit NJ
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Boonton's
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Cheesequake State Park in Middlesex County offers hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, and much more. Photo by Ali Chandra
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The Camden Children's Garden offers free admission for children under 2.
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Cruise in the Playmobil Fire Truck during your trip to Toys
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Hop aboard a stagecoach for a ride back in time at Wild West City, one of New Jersey's top attractions.
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Creating a baking soda volcano is a classic science experiment for kids. Photo by Sara Marentette Nighswander
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Diggerland shines this holiday season with a drive-thru course covered in twinkling lights. Photo courtesy of Diggerland
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43 Best Spring Festivals and Fairs in New Jersey this April and May for Families

Enjoy fun on the farm during Alstede's Easter and Springtime Festival. Photo by Rose Gordon Sala
Enjoy fun on the farm during Alstede's Easter and Springtime Festival. Photo by Rose Gordon Sala
3/22/24 - By Laurie Rein

It's time to kiss winter goodbye in New Jersey and spring into the outdoor festival and fair season. Spring festivals are blossoming in 2024 and promise tons of family-friendly fun and things to do. From cherry blossom festivals to street fairs, these gatherings are a great way to spend time outdoors and experience all spring has to offer. 

For more spring action, check out our Guide to Spring Fun in New Jersey for Kids.

As always, if an event piques your interest, click through to our listing for all the details, including addresses, times, and recommended ages. And keep in mind: Cool things to do with kids book up quickly, so register or buy your tickets ASAP.

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OUR LATEST VIDEOS

Take in the sunshine and flowers at the Reeves Reed Arboretum's Daffodil Day. Photo courtesy of the arboretum
Take in the sunshine and flowers at the Reeves Reed Arboretum's Daffodil Day. Photo courtesy of the arboretum

Spring Festivals in New Jersey in April 2024

Springtime and Easter Festival at Alstede Farms

Chester
Daily from Saturday, March 23-Sunday April 7, 2024
Alstede Farms springs back to life for a new season. Take a scenic hayride around the farm, visit the barnyard animals, meet-and-greet the Easter Bunny, hunt for eggs, journey through mazes, and lots more. READ MORE

Essex County Cherry Blossom Festival at Branch Brook Park

Newark–FREE
Daily from Saturday, April 6-Sunday, April 14, 2024
Rejoice in thousands of flowering cherry trees, plus tons of family fun, as Essex County presents this two-weekend festival in Branch Brook Park. The fun includes Bloomfest, Essex County Family Day, 10K and 1-mile family fun runs, bike races, and a community fair.  READ MORE

Sea-Con! Collectibles Festival in Sea Bright

Sea Bright–FREE
Saturday, April 13, 2024
Sea-Con is a collectibles festival celebrating comic books, trading cards, toys and crafts. Meet artist Criss Madd. Kids can interact with the 501st Legion and other characters from Star Wars. READ MORE

Red Bank Street Fair

Red Bank–FREE
Sunday, April 14, 2024
Celebrate the season in downtown Red Bank, with vendors, food, rides, crafts, and plenty of springtime fun. READ MORE

Art In Bloom in Clinton

Clinton–FREE
Sunday, April 14, 2024
Head over to a brand new festival in historic downtown Clinton: Art in Bloom, a town-wide fine arts & crafts festival where artists and local artisans showcase and sell their works among the charming local shops and eateries that line the beautiful downtown. READ MORE

Daffodil Day at Reeves-Reed Arboretum

Summit
Sunday, April 14, 2024
Relish the arrival of spring with flower power and see more than 50,000 bulbs in bloom. Expect green-themed games and crafts, music, food trucks, and story walks. This extra-special year marks the 50th anniversary of the arboretum. READ MORE

Latin Food Festival in Paramus

Paramus
Sunday, April 14, 2024
Indulge in Latin flavors at this Food Fest Fiesta! Take a culinary journey through the vibrant and savory world of Latin cuisine. Savor the authentic taste of street-style tacos, sizzling fajitas, and mouthwatering arepas. Live music and dance round out the fun. READ MORE

Annual Kites at the Pier Festival

Long Branch–FREE
Saturday, April 20, 2024
Kites of all shapes and sizes soar over the beach in Long Branch. A dazzling display of giant kites is visible for miles. The fun includes inflatable rides, shopping, dining, and a Running of the Bols competition. READ MORE

Shad Fest 2024

Lambertville–FREE
Saturday, April 20-Sunday, April 21, 2024
Shad Fest showcases the region’s finest artists and crafters, featuring jewelry, ceramics, furniture, apparel, accessories, home décor, and more. A children’s activity section includes games and face painting. There is also a home and garden section and farmers market. READ MORE

Cape May Earth Day Celebration

Cape May–FREE
Saturday, April 20, 2024
Head over to the Cape May County Park and Zoo for a day of Earth-friendly fun, featuring educational exhibits, children’s amusements, live entertainment, environmental eco-shops, and a scavenger hunt. This year's theme is Planet vs. Plastics. READ MORE

Grayrock N Roll Spring Festival

Clinton
Saturday, April 20, 2024
This spring festival boasts live music, and food, plus over 40 vendors selling art, candles, health and beauty, home decor, jewelry, pet supplies, toys, wreaths, and much more. Meet horses, goats, pigs, chickens, ducks, lamb, and turkeys. READ MORE

Smithville Renaissance Faire

Galloway–FREE
Saturday, April 20-Sunday, April 21, 2024
Join the players of the New Jersey Renaissance Faire and travel back to the days of yore and merry Olde England. The Historic Village of Smithville is transformed into the Shire of Smithville in the heart of the English Renaissance.  READ MORE

Whole Lotta Empanada & Food Truck Festival in Garfield

Garfield
Saturday, April 20, 2024
The Garfield Recreation Department proudly presents the Whole Lotta Empanada Festival, featuring the Flavor of Latin America. Join 14 empanada vendors all vying for the EMPY, or People's Choice Best Empanada. READ MORE

Brick Fest Live in Edison

Edison
Saturday, April 20-Sunday, April 21, 2024
Over a million LEGO bricks are on display at Brick Fest Live, featuring life-size models, hands-on attractions, mosaic-building, shopping and more. READ MORE

Fur Baby Fest 2024 at Burlington County Fairgrounds

Springfield Township–FREE
Saturday, April 20, 2024
Wake the kids, alert the neighbors, and leash up your furry friends, because the inaugural Fur Baby Food and Music Fest is happening. Enjoy 15+ food vendors, live music, face painting, a pet costume contest, a doggy agility course, and more. READ MORE

Stirling's Annual Street Fair

Stirling–FREE
Sunday, April 21, 2024
This event features shopping, food, music, children's activities, and more, held along Main Avenue between Mercer and Somerset streets. READ MORE

Elmwood Park's Spring Festival

Elmwood Park–FREE
Saturday, April 27, 2024
If you like shopping outdoors, Market Street is the place to be. Peruse quality exhibitors, a special arts & crafts section, live entertainment, kiddie rides & games, great festival foods, and more. READ MORE

Rutgers Day

New Brunswick–FREE
Saturday, April 27, 2024
Rutgers University’s show-and-tell event for all ages offers free performances by musicians and dancers, health and wellness tips, science demonstrations, and hands-on learning activities in the sciences, arts, and humanities.  READ MORE

South Jersey Arts Fest in Elmer

Elmer–FREE
Saturday, April 27, 2024
Celebrate the arts and artists of South Jersey with live music, food and drink, craft vendors, and art-making. Appel Farm teaching artists lead art-making workshops for all ages, and local young artists will display their artwork in a pop-up outdoor art gallery. READ MORE

The Original NJ Empanada Festival in Manville

Manville
Saturday, April 27, 2024
Experience Empanada Extravaganza in New Jersey! Satisfy your empanada cravings at this spectacular event, showcasing a diverse range of empanadas, BBQ, All-American, and Asian delights from the premier food trucks in town. READ MORE

CANCELED- Cranford Street Fair

Cranford–FREE
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Delicious food, handcrafted items, live music, and so much more make for a memorable  festival at this walkable celebration in downtown Cranford.  READ MORE

Union County's Wild Earth Fest

Mountainside–FREE
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Families are invited to Trailside Nature & Science Center for an outdoor event that features live animal demonstrations, educational displays, music, food, and more. READ MORE
One of the world's premier kite festivals is held annually over Memorial Day weekend on Wildwood's expansive beach. Photo courtesy of the festival
One of the world's premier kite festivals is held annually over Memorial Day weekend on Wildwood's expansive beach. Photo courtesy of the festival

Spring Festivals in New Jersey in May 2024

Ocean Grove Spring Fling

Ocean Grove–FREE
Saturday, May 4, 2024
Get a jump-start on summer with an early trip to the Jersey Shore. Ocean Grove holds this annual celebration with vendors, artisans, music, and more.  READ MORE

Founders Day in Plainsboro

Plainsboro–FREE
Saturday, May 4, 2024
All are invited to join in the fun at this annual Founders Day event.  Enjoy a variety of activities, inflatables, amusement rides, live entertainment, music, dance, jugglers, arts and cultural programs, exhibits, local history, food and beverages for purchase, and more.   READ MORE

Skylands Stadium Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival

Augusta
Saturday, May 4, 2024
Bring the whole family to this all-day party that takes place right on the field. The spring festival features more than 20 food trucks, upwards of 100 craft beers, music, games, sports on the big screen, shopping, and more. READ MORE

Ocean City Spring Block Party

Ocean City–FREE
Saturday, May 4, 2024
Head to the Jersey Shore for this spring street fair with more than 350 crafters, vendors, fair food, live music, and some fresh, salty air.  READ MORE

Bridgewater Spring Carnival

Bridgewater–FREE
Sunday, May 5, 2024
(New date due to weather) Bring family and friends to this free carnival with no-fee admission to rides, inflatables, carnival games and DJ music. Plus, enjoy a petting zoo, crafts tent, face painting, food trucks and more. READ MORE

Westfield Spring Fling

Westfield–FREE
Sunday, May 5, 2024
More than 300 vendors line the streets of downtown Westfield for this springtime festival, which is chock full of all-ages fun. There are yummy festival eats on offer, and children's entertainment abounds.  READ MORE

Creative Arts Festival in Lincroft

Lincroft–FREE
Saturday, May 11, 2024
The annual Creative Arts Festival features artists selling offerings such as mixed-media pieces, paintings, photography, jewelry, pottery, and more. READ MORE

St. Mary of the Lakes Carnival

Medford
Monday, May 13-Saturday, May 18, 2024
Rides, games, food, and live entertainment are all part of the excitement at this six-day carnival. Bring your appetite for a huge selection of food, and be sure to enter the raffles. A MegaPass is available and covers unlimited rides for the run of the festival. READ MORE

Cape May Spring Festival

Cape May
Thursday, May 16-Sunday, May 19, 2024
The beachside town of Cape May hosts four days of family-friendly activities, from trolley tours to boat rides to indoor activities.  READ MORE

37th Annual New Jersey Seafood Festival in Belmar

Belmar–FREE
Friday, May 17-Sunday, May 19, 2024
Head over to Belmar for one of the largest seafood festivals in the country. Sample yummy dishes from area restaurants, enjoy live music, and visit the children's activity area for special games and entertainment. READ MORE

Fairy and Pirate Festival at Turkey Brook Park

Budd Lake–FREE
Saturday, May 18, 2024
The wee folk and swashbuckling buccaneers are back at Turkey Brook Park, turning it into a magical wonderland of games, rides, entertainment, and activities. Costumes are encouraged. READ MORE

Lake Hopatcong Block Party

Lake Hopatcong–FREE
Saturday, May 18, 2024
Celebrate New Jersey’s largest lake during this day-long festival. Connect with community groups, crafters, and food vendors while enjoying activities, raffles, giveaways, a children’s scavenger hunt, and more. READ MORE

New Jersey Renaissance Faire in Columbus

Southampton
Saturdays and Sundays, from Saturday, May 18-Sunday, June 9, 2024
The Italian Renaissance takes over Burlington County Fairgrounds for four weekends, featuring cast members entertaining visitors as they walk through the castle gates. Look out for a jousting tournament, aerial acrobatics, circus performers, fire dancers, and craft demonstrations. READ MORE

Glen Ridge Arts and Eco Fair

Glen Ridge–FREE
Saturday, May 18, 2024
The Glen Ridge Arts and Eco Fair is a day of family-fun activities promoting both a healthier environment and the arts. The all-day fair and art show features arts, crafts, and wellness vendors. READ MORE

Hackettstown International Day and Maifest

Hackettstown–FREE
Saturday, May 18, 2024
Come support your local artist, crafters, shops, eateries and beer brewers during the 2024 Hackettstown Maifest & International Day celebration. This is a family-friendly event with live entertainment, activities, business specials and vendors by the Marketspace. READ MORE

Ocean Fun Days in Berkeley

Berkeley–FREE
Saturday, May 18-Sunday, May 19, 2024
This two-day festival celebrates the ocean with exhibits, classes, nature tours, crab races and children’s activities focused on our coastal environment. READ MORE

World Food Extravaganza

Hamilton
Saturday, May 18-Sunday, May 19, 2024
Indulge in a culinary adventure at Megabite Events' World Food Extravaganza. Global flavors and music collide at Mercer County Par for a sensational two-day event.  READ MORE

Kenilworth Street Fair with Classic Cars

Kenilworth–FREE
Sunday, May 19, 2024
The Boulevard is transformed into a giant block party and features quality exhibitors, a special crafter’s section, great food, kiddie rides, live performances, and local merchants and civic organizations. READ MORE

Wildwoods International Kite Festival

Wildwood–FREE
Friday, May 24-Monday, May 27, 2024
The annual Wildwoods International Kite Festival, the largest such festival in North America, features kite makers from around the world flying their most incredible and colorful creations. READ MORE

Places featured in this article:

Grayrock Farm Sanctuary
Historic Smithville & the Village Greene
New Jersey Convention & Expo Center
Appel Farm Arts and Music Center
Downtown Cranford
Downtown Westfield
Saint Mary of the Lakes School
Island Beach State Park (plus other location)
Mercer County Park Festival Grounds
Beach Across from Wildwood Convention Center