Donations to Fanwood's Famous Christmas House support charity. Photo courtesy of the family
Best Neighborhood Christmas Light Displays and Holiday Lights in New Jersey
Check out more than 50 illuminated winter scenes and animal characters at Turtle Back Zoo's holiday lights display. Photo courtesy of the zoo
17 Best Things To Do in New Jersey December 2023 with Kids
The spectacular Winter WonderLights drive-thru boasts more than 1.5 million lights animated to favorite holiday tunes,
New Jersey's Best Christmas Light Shows and Holiday Drive-Thrus
GUIDE
Guide to Holiday and Christmas Events for NJ Families
Six Flags Holiday in the Park returns for a 2023 run, promising thrilling holiday cheer. Photo courtesy of Six Flags
25 Must-Do Christmas Events and Holiday Activities in New Jersey for Kids
Find the perfect tree at Anne Ellen Christmas Tree Farm in Manalapan. Photo courtesy of the farm
Christmas Tree Farms in New Jersey
Join a magical trip on the Polar Express powered by the Morristown & Erie Railway. Photo courtesy of the railway
Polar Express Train Rides and Christmas Trains in New Jersey
Bring your camera for a picture with Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at Abma's Farm. Photo courtesy of the farm
Where To Take Pictures with Santa in New Jersey
A visit to downtown Summit puts visitors in the holiday spirit with its shops, restaurants, and hidden elves!
Best New Jersey Christmas Towns that Go All-Out for the Holidays
Allow yourself to get drawn into the mesmerizing art at the Morris Museum next time you're looking for indoor activities for kids in New Jersey. Photo by Kaylynn Chiarello Ebner
40 Things To Do Indoors in New Jersey on Rainy Days
Bounce, climb, and jump at BounceU in Paramus, one of our top indoor play spaces in northern New Jersey.
40 Indoor Play Spaces in Northern New Jersey for Kids
Big-name Broadway shows like &Juliet come at a premium prices, but there are ways to save on Broadway tickets. Photo by Aka NYC.
Discount Broadway Tickets: Six Ways to Save Big on Broadway Shows
Help your kids develop their creative side with art classes
GUIDE
Guide to Classes for New Jersey Kids
Hike the Appalachian Trail—72 miles are n New Jersey! Photo courtesy of Visit NJ
100 Things To Do in New Jersey With Kids Before They Grow Up
Task-tackling service Taskrabbit is able to take on tons of back-to-school projects you may not have even considered outsourcing.
25 Back-to-School Tasks You Didn't Know You Could Pay Someone Else to Do
Boonton's
Easy Waterfall Hikes in Northern New Jersey for Kids
The Funplex's rides will please little thrill-seekers.
The Funplex Amusement Park and Water Park Guide: Family Fun in East Hanover and Mt. Laurel
Cheesequake State Park in Middlesex County offers hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, and much more. Photo by Ali Chandra
Great Day Trips to New Jersey State Parks and Forests
The accessible playground at Watsessing Park is a dream come true for children of all abilities. Photo by Margaret Hargrove
Best Playgrounds in New Jersey: 12 That Are Worth the Drive
GUIDE
New Jersey Amusement Parks and Water Parks Guide
Cruise in the Playmobil Fire Truck during your trip to Toys
Free Indoor Play Spots in New Jersey for Kids
Nickelodeon Universe is one of the can't-miss destinations at American Dream Mall in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo courtesy of the venue
  VIDEO
Visiting American Dream Mall in New Jersey: 16 Fun Things To Do and Tips For Your Visit
New Jersey kids can find free fun climbing the pirate ship at the free Garden State Plaza Westfield mall. Photo by Mommy Poppins
GUIDE
Free Fun Things to Do with NJ Kids
The Rainforest Cafe has two family-friendly restaurants in New Jersey. A meal out here is part adventure, part restaurant.
Themed Restaurants in New Jersey for Family-Friendly Interactive Dining
GUIDE
Guide to Indoor Play Spaces for New Jersey Kids
The Camden Children's Garden offers free admission for children under 2.
Free Admission for Kids at 50+ Top New Jersey Family Attractions
Guests experience the safari at Six Flags Great Adventure from the privacy and safety of their own vehicles. Photo courtesy of Six Flags
The Best New Jersey Zoos and Aquariums to Visit with Kids
Hop aboard a stagecoach for a ride back in time at Wild West City, one of New Jersey's top attractions.
Top Attractions in New Jersey: Best Things To See and Do With Kids
Creating a baking soda volcano is a classic science experiment for kids. Photo by Sara Marentette Nighswander
67 Easy Science Experiments for Kids To Do at Home
Teach 'em to tie during downtime.
65 Life Skills to Teach Kids at Every Age
These boredom-busting activities turn a stuck-at-home day into a lasting memory.
75 Indoor Activities for Kids on a Rainy Day
The Dickens Village returns to Maplewood for the holiday season this weekend. Photo by Rose Gordon Sala
Hanukkah Celebrations and More Top Things To Do in New Jersey This Weekend

105 Free Things To Do in New Jersey this Summer with Kids

Get ready for beach treasure hunts this summer in Lavallette. Photo courtesy of Enjoy Lavallette
Get ready for beach treasure hunts this summer in Lavallette. Photo courtesy of Enjoy Lavallette
6/9/23 - By Laurie Rein

Summer is the season for FREE events all across New Jersey. We’ve rounded up more than 100 family-friendly events to enjoy this summer that don't involve breaking the bank, including fireworks displays galore, festivals that offer something for everyone, and outdoor movie screenings throughout the Garden State.

You can find even more cool seasonal activities and destinations in our Ultimate New Jersey Kids Summer Vacation Guide and our Activity Calendar. Have a fabulous summer full of FREE fun!

Sign up for our FREE newsletters to get posts like this delivered to your inbox.

Many events in this listing occur on multiple dates, so be sure to read through the entire description and click through for addresses, times, and any reservation requirements. In addition to our FREE event picks, we've included a collection of fun anytime activities and destinations at the end.

More Free Activities in New Jersey this Summer

Free Summer Movies in New Jersey

July Fairs and Festivals for NJ Families

Free Summer Concerts in New Jersey

 

OUR LATEST VIDEOS

Kick off every weekend on the Wildwoods Boardwalk with Friday night fireworks. Photo courtesy of Wildwoods, New Jersey
Kick off every weekend on the Wildwoods Boardwalk with Friday night fireworks. Photo courtesy of Wildwoods, New Jersey

Free Things To Do in New Jersey All Summer Long

Gloucester County Movies in the Park

Multiple Locations
Select days through Friday, September 1, 2023
Screenings are held throughout the county on select Monday, Wednesday, and Friday nights through August.  READ MORE

2023 Essex County Free Summer Music Concert Series

Essex County parks
Select dates from Tuesday, June 20-Friday, August 11, 2023
Kick back in the park, and hear a diverse group of musicians and entertainers throughout Essex County. Performers include local and international acts in jazz, rock and roll, big band, reggae and more.   READ MORE

Characters on the Pier

Point Pleasant
Mondays from July 10-August 28, 2023
Stop by the Pier every Monday for character appearances as they stroll throughout the Pier. Don't miss the meet and greets and photo ops. READ MORE

Beach Treasure Hunt

Lavallette
Mondays from July 3-August 28, 2023
Children of all ages are invited to dig for treasures every Monday at President Avenue Beach. Coins are hidden in the sand, and every participant receives a prize.  READ MORE

Free Family Movie Nights in Downtown Wildwood

Wildwood
Tuesdays from June 27-August 22, 2023
Head over to Byrne Plaza on Tuesday nights for a free family movie, with animated titles like Minions: The Rise of GRU. Bring blankets or beach chairs, and take advantage of free parking. READ MORE

Sweet Sounds Downtown Music Festival

Westfield
Tuesdays, July 11-August 29, 2023
Enjoy a night out in town with free music as you stroll, eat, and relax at outdoor venues around town featuring live musicians. Talented groups play and entertain each Tuesday evening through August with Wednesday rain dates. READ MORE

Avalon Beach Movies

Avalon
Tuesdays from June 27-August 29, 2023
Bring a beach chair or blanket to 30th Street Beach for a big-screen movie every Tuesday. Titles include Top Gun: Maverick.  READ MORE

Aquarium Beach Bingo

Point Pleasant
Tuesdays from June 27-August 29, 2023
All are invited to Jenkinson's Aquarium Beach Bingo on Tuesday. Instead of numbers, this bingo uses beach items. Meet in front of the aquarium and win prizes.  READ MORE

Ridgewood Movies in the Park

Ridgewood
Select Wednesdays from June 14-August 9, 2023
The Ridgewood Guild presents a roster of oldies but goodies every other Wednesday at Memorial Park.  READ MORE

Freehold Family Movie Night

Freehold
Wednesdays from June 21-August 23, 2023
Bring a blanket to the lawn outside Hall of Records every Wednesday night for a showing of a new or classic movie. Grab a bite from a downtown eatery while you're there.  READ MORE

Pier Village Summer Movie Series

Long Branch
Wednesdays, July 5-August 30, 2023
Pier Village hosts free flicks every Wednesday night on Festival Plaza. Catch hits like Top Gun Maverick while enjoying the adjacent shops and restaurants. Movies begin at dusk. READ MORE

Sea Isle City Free Movies Under the Stars

Sea Isle City
Wednesdays, July 5-August 30, 2023
The Bad Guys and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever are a couple of the great movies scheduled to play at Excursion Park on Wednesday nights.  READ MORE

Waldwick Summer Concert Series

Waldwick
Select Wednesdays through September 13, 2023
Waldwick presents a free summer concert series at Borough Park. Bring chairs and blankets, and enjoy the show. Food donations are welcome for the Center for Food Action. READ MORE

Summer Courtyard Series

Princeton
Thursdays from July 6-August 10, 2023
Princeton Shopping Center's courtyard is home to a diverse summer outdoor entertainment series on Thursday nights. Get ready to dance with local bands. There are plenty of dinner options from nearby Princeton eateries. READ MORE

Kites and Castles

Lavallette
Thursdays from July 6-August 24, 2023
Bring your kites to the Philadelphia Avenue beach every Thursday night for sandcastle building and kite flying. A first place prize is awarded each week, and prizes are given to all participants.  READ MORE

Thrilling Thursdays in Margate

Margate
Thursdays from July 6-August 31, 2023
Get a head start on the weekend with this busy Thursday roster of activities in Margate. Start your day with a visit to the farmers market, shop at local sidewalk sales, play free cornhole, and visit the beach free of charge. Top it off with a beachfront movie night. READ MORE

Aquarium Beach Walk

Point Pleasant
Thursdays from June 22-August 31, 2023
Explore the shores of Point Pleasant Beach with the staff of Jenkinson's Aquarium and see what treasures may be found.  READ MORE

Thursday's ROCK! Summer Concert Series

Freehold
Thursdays from June 1-August 24, 2023
Get ready to rock every Thursday night at Downtown Freehold's summer concert series, featuring widely-known and local talent acts. READ MORE

Starlit Cinema Somerville

Somerville
Thursdays from July 6-August 10, 2023
Bustling Division Street Plaza provides the backdrop for outdoor movies on a big screen. This year's screenings will include classics like Finding Nemo and Jaws.   READ MORE

Westfield Community Concert Band Summer Concert Series

Westfield
Thursdays from June 22-July 13, 2023
Westfield Community Concert Band presents its annual Summer Concert Series in Westfield's Mindowaskin Park. The band will present selections from Broadway musicals, popular marches, patriotic selections, the classics and contemporary music. READ MORE

Jenkinson's Fireworks at Dark

Point Pleasant
Thursdays from June 22-August 31, 2023
Gather at Jenkinson's Beach every Thursday night for fireworks on the beach. Fireworks start at dark. READ MORE

Princess Storytime

Point Pleasant
Fridays from July 7-September 1, 2023
It's a royal beach outing as princesses share stories, singing and dancing on the beach by the aquarium. READ MORE

Toms River Downtown Night Out

Toms River
Fridays and Saturdays from June 2-October 28, 2023
Spend Friday and Saturday nights exploring downtown Toms River. Restaurants and businesses are open for dining, shopping, and entertainment. A section of Washington Street is closed for outdoor dining. READ MORE

Sunset Sips & Sounds

Princeton
Fridays from June 2-September 8, 2023
Spend a relaxing Friday evening at Terhune Orchards, with live music from local bands and, of course, wine. Light fare is available for purchase. Families are welcome. READ MORE

METC Free Summer Concert Series

Madison
Select Fridays from June 23-August 18, 2023
METC's free Summer Concert Series sponsored by the DDC is back. Enjoy a free night of music this summer on Fridays. Bring your own chair or blanket to sit and listen to some great performances. READ MORE

Wildwoods Boardwalk Friday Night Fireworks

Wildwood
Fridays from June 3-September 1, 2023
Spectacular fireworks light up the sky every Friday night on the Pine Avenue Beach. READ MORE

Maplewood Summer Concert Series

Maplewood
Fridays from July 15-August 11, 2023
Gather at the Springfield Avenue gazebo every Friday night for great live music performances. READ MORE

Princess Sing-A-Longs

Seaside Heights
Fridays from July 7-August 18, 2023
Join these royal Princess Sing-A-Longs on the Pier every Friday. Stop by the meet and greet and photo ops between the 3pm and 4pm shows. READ MORE

2023 Summer Music and More

Princeton
Select Saturdays from June 17-August 19, 2023
Gather at Nassau Park Pavilion for a free summer music series, along with free art activities for both youth and adults. READ MORE

Scotch Plains Farmers' Market

Scotch Plains
Saturdays through November 4, 2023
The annual farmers' market returns every Saturday morning for its 31st season, featuring fresh produce, baked goods, gifts and more.  READ MORE

Downtown Wildwood Farmers Market

Wildwood
Saturdays through September 2, 2023
The Downtown Wildwood Farmers Market features 60+ quality vendors, including farmers selling a full variety of produce, plants, and flowers. Bakers offer all kinds of goodies, too, with many gluten-free varieties. Children's entertainment takes place each week. READ MORE
Enjoy an evening of at outdoor fun by hunting for fireflies at Terhune Orchards. Photo courtesy of the farm
Enjoy an evening of at outdoor fun by hunting for fireflies at Terhune Orchards. Photo courtesy of the farm

Free Events in NJ in June

Downtown Cranford Summer Sounds

Cranford
Thursdays from June 1-June 28, 2023
Grab a bite from a local restaurant and pull up a park bench for these special Thursday evening concerts in downtown Cranford. The streets come alive with a different sound from local artists each week.   READ MORE

Pride in the Park

Red Bank
Saturday, June 10, 2023
Everyone is invited to Riverside Gardens Park for a celebration of diversity and inclusivity. Featured are live music, vendors, giveaways and activities.  READ MORE

Glassboro Community Day

Glassboro
Saturday, June 10, 2023
Join the Glassboro community for a day of fun activities, like crafts, face painting, music, demonstrations, food, kid castles and more. Over 50 vendors are present. READ MORE

JCPenney Kids Zone

various locations
Saturday, June 10, 2023
Stop by New Jersey JCPenney stores on the second Saturday of every month for free and fun crafts. Children receive a lanyard and collector's pin. Six pins earn a Project Master Medallion. READ MORE

Montvale Street Fair

Montvale
Sunday, June 11, 2023
Paragon Drive is home to Montvale's 11th annual street fair, featuring over 150 vendors, crafts, children's activities, food and live entertainment. READ MORE

Crafts in the Park Show

Westwood
Sunday, June 11, 2023
Over 100 exhibitors with arts, crafts and photography from three states showcase a great variety of hand crafted items, such as stained glass, pottery, garden decor, welcome signs, paintings, apparel, metal & resin art, charcuterie boards, jewelry, florals, birdhouses and more. READ MORE

Metuchen Street Fair

Metuchen
Sunday, June 11, 2023
Hit the streets of downtown Metuchen for vendors, crafts, food, kiddie rides, games, bands, a DJ, and more. READ MORE

Sankofa’s Juneteenth Festival of Morris County

Morristown
Thursday, July 15-Saturday, July 17, 2023
Morristown Juneteenth Weekend brings together five non-profit organizations to create a three-day event that commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. This free weekend offers access to local artists, food, music, and other festivities at major cultural venues in Morristown and Morris Township. READ MORE

Skimmer Festival

Sea Isle City
Saturday, June 17, 2023
Come to this festival by the sea, featuring vendors, food, live music, rides and children's activities. READ MORE

Asbury Park Bazaar : North To Shore Festival Pop Up

Asbury Park
Saturday, June 17-Sunday, June 18, 2023
Celebrate Father's Weekend at the North To Shore Festival Pop Up featuring makers, music, and art. The pop up features shopping, food and libations, face painting and vendors. READ MORE

Scotch Plains-Fanwood Juneteenth Celebration

Scotch Plains–FREE
Saturday, June 17
The towns of Scotch Plains and Fanwood sponsor an afternoon of free programs in honor of Juneteenth. Events are located at or near Shady Rest, the nation's first Black-owned county club. READ MORE

Burlington Freedom Day 2023: A Juneteenth Celebration

Burlington
Saturday, June 17-Sunday, June 18, 2023
Celebrate Juneteenth on the beautiful Burlington waterfront. The two-day event includes music, food, vendors, a kid zone, crafts, games, and free lunch. The event concludes on Sunday with Praise on the Promenade: A Gospel Music Celebration. READ MORE

Sustainably Green Music & Arts Festival

Washington
Saturday, June 17, 2023
The Sustainably Green Music & Arts Festival returns to downtown Washington Borough, featuring a full day of music, eco-friendly exhibitioners, artisan vendors, kids’ activities, shopping, dining, and more. READ MORE

Deptford Mall Kid's Mini Theater Show

Deptford
Thursdays, June 22, July 27, August 24, 2023
Beloved story characters take the stage at Deptford Mall for FREE monthly shows. Enjoy singing, dancing, story time, fun giveaways, and a meet-and-greet with the character. Registration is required.  READ MORE

Marvel Superheroes Meet & Greet

Point Pleasant
Thursday, June 22, 2023
Spider-Man and Captain American swing by Jenkinson's Boardwalk to meet with fans. READ MORE

Summer Kick-Off Beach Campfire

Long Beach Island
Saturday, June 24, 2023
Gather at Barnegat Lighthouse State Park for an evening campfire, with live music and marshmallow-roasting. Please bring a blanket or chair and some marshmallows and sticks. READ MORE

Bayshore Bazaar Summer Celebration at The Seafarer

Highlands
Saturday, June 24, 2023
This fun-filled day at The Seafarer features live music, delicious food and libations, local vendors, and more. Plus, browse unique handmade crafts, jewelry, clothing, and other items from talented local artists and artisans. READ MORE

Feria de Sevilla

Woodbridge
Sunday, June 25, 2023
Enjoy a free afternoon of costumes and dance performances on stage by Alborada's professional dancers and musicians. READ MORE

Firefly Festival at Terhune Orchards

Princeton
Sunday, June 25, 2023
Light up the summer with a free evening of nature, music, wagon rides, and outdoor activities. Children can decorate firefly wings and make antennas in the craft area. There is a kids' play area, plus farm animals to visit. READ MORE

Summer Picnic Party

Berkeley Township
Thursday, June 29, 2023
Kick off the summer at the park with live music, bocce, horseshoes, giant Twister and food trucks. Bring a beach chair or blanket. READ MORE

Cedar Grove Fireworks

Cedar Grove
Thursday, June 29, 2023
Head to the turf field at Panther Park with your picnic blanket and spread out to enjoy the fireworks. Prior to the show, entertainment includes a DJ, balloon artist, crafts, obstacle course and refreshments.  READ MORE

Princess Palooza at Jenkinson's

Point Pleasant
Thursday, June 29, 2023
Meet your favorite princesses at Jenkinson's Pavilion Beach Stage prior to the fireworks show. READ MORE

Touch-A-Truck

Beechwood
Friday, June 30, 2023
Kids of all ages are invited to get behind the wheel and explore all kinds of vehicles. Crafts and snacks round out the fun. A sensory-friendly half hour, with no noises or flashing lights, takes place at 10am. READ MORE

Lake Hopatcong Fireworks

Mount Arlington
Friday, June 30, 2023
The Lake Hopatcong Yacht Club sponsors this annual fireworks spectacular, which sends sparklers flying high above the lake from floating docks. READ MORE

Hamilton Township Independence Day Concert & Fireworks

Hamilton
Friday, June 30, 2023
Music, food and fun kick off the celebration at Hamilton Township's Veterans Park. Stick around to see the fireworks fly beginning at 9:30pm. READ MORE

Verona Fireworks

Verona
Friday, June 30, 2023
Get a jump-start on the holiday weekend in Verona, which celebrates with sparklers a few days early. Enjoy DJ music prior to the fireworks display. READ MORE

Lyndhurst Fireworks

Lyndhurst–FREE
Friday, June 30, 2023
Head over to this patriotic party on Riverside Avenue, with food trucks, vendors and a fireworks display at dusk. READ MORE
Jenkinson's Boardwalk lights up with fireworks on the 4th of July. Photo courtesy of Jenkinson's
Jenkinson's Boardwalk lights up with fireworks on the 4th of July. Photo courtesy of Jenkinson's

Free Events in NJ in July

Scotch Plains Annual Independence Day Fireworks Celebration

Scotch Plains
Saturday, July 1, 2023
Celebrate an early Independence Day at the Scotch Hills Golf Course when fireworks set the sky on fire. Pre-show entertainment is planned. Fireworks begin at 9pm. READ MORE

Highland Park Fireworks

Highland Park
Sunday, July 2, 2023
Food trucks, music, and fun are the pre-show to this fireworks display, which begins at 9:20pm.  READ MORE

Perth Amboy Fireworks

Perth Amboy
Monday, July 3, 2023
View one of the state's biggest fireworks displays over the Raritan Bay. The fun begins at 3pm with food and festivities, topped off with fireworks at night. READ MORE

Mount Holly Fireworks

Mount Holly
Monday, July 3, 2023
Celebrate Independence Day with a festive fireworks display at Ironworks Park. Round out the fun with live music, giveaways, rides, and food trucks.  READ MORE

Milltown 4th of July

Milltown
Tuesday, July 4, 2023
Milltown celebrates the 4th of July with a full roster of events, including a fishing derby, parade, duck race, food, music and fireworks.  READ MORE

Jenkinson's Annual 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular

Point Pleasant Beach
Tuesday, July 4, 2023
Jenkinson's action-packed boardwalk celebrates the 4th of July with a dazzling fireworks display. READ MORE

Springfield's July 4th Celebration 2023

Springfield
Tuesday, July 4, 2023
Springfield's July 4th Celebration 2023 features free activities that include a DJ, inflatables, a trackless train, a petting zoo, pony rides, fireworks at dusk, and a live concert by Barbara Harris and The Toys. READ MORE

Camden Waterfront Freedom Festival

Camden
Tuesday, July 4, 2023
Celebrate Independence Day at the Freedom Festival, presented by the Camden County Board of Freeholders and the City of Camden. Families can expect patriotic fun, live music, and an amazing fireworks show over the Delaware River. READ MORE

Little Falls Annual 4th of July Street Fair

Little Falls
Tuesday, July 4, 2023
Main Street in Little Falls hosts this big block party on Independence Day. Stroll the blocks-long celebration with food, vendors, crafts, children's activities, and live entertainment. READ MORE

Independence Day Celebration at Longstreet Farm

Holmdel
Tuesday, July 4, 2023
Celebrate Independence Day with an old-school flair. Longstreet Farms takes the party back to the 1890s. Enjoy old-fashioned patriotism and celebrate with games, music, and more. READ MORE

Union Fireworks

Union
Tuesday, July 4, 2023
This festive evening begins with a concert featuring the Silver Arrow Band, followed by the fireworks spectacular. Bring a chair or blanket.  READ MORE

Oceanfest

Long Branch
Tuesday, July 4, 2023
All are invited to Oceanfest, an all-day, family-friendly festival that brings together the most memorable sights, sounds and sensations of the summer season. Oceanfest combines community and cultural events and tops off with spectacular fireworks. READ MORE

Livingston 4th of July Celebration

Livingston
Tuesday, July 4, 2023
Livingston's 4th of July celebration is an all-day affair, featuring rides, games, food trucks, pony rides, a photo booth, and live entertainment.  READ MORE

Ridgewood 4th of July Celebration

Ridgewood
Tuesday, July 4, 2023
Join the 113th annual Ridgewood 4th of July celebration with the theme "Made in America." The day starts with a flag raising at 9am followed by a parade stepping off at 10am. READ MORE

Ocean City 4th of July Celebration

Ocean City
Tuesday, July 4, 2023
Celebrate Independence Day down the shore in Ocean City with a kite flying competition, live entertainment, and a boardwalk fireworks display. READ MORE

4th of July Parade at Historic Smithville

Galloway
Tuesday, July 4, 2023
Come out and celebrate the nation's birth. Historic Smithville has the largest 4th of July parade in all of New Jersey. The parade starts at 9am, and 10,000 people are expected to line the parade route.  READ MORE

Kids Concert with Yosi

Seaside Heights
Wednesday, July 5-Thursday, July 6, 2023
Come join the “B-E-A-C-H” Party with Yosi. Do The Limbo, swim and spell at the B-E-A-C-H, sail away on a ship, and marvel at all the wonderful sea creatures during this free concert on the Pier stage. READ MORE

The Little Mermen

Point Pleasant
Thursday, July 6 and August 3, 2023
Rock out to your favorite Disney tunes with Little Mermen, a Disney cover band, on the Pavilion Beach Stage.  READ MORE

Wildwood Crest Sand Sculpting Festival

Wildwood Crest
Friday, July 7, 2023
Serious sand lovers can grab a pail, shovel, and other tools and head to the beach at Wildwood Crest for the town's annual sand sculpture festival. This ultimate summer event is worth checking out even if you don't want to compete.  READ MORE

29th Haddonfield Crafts & Fine Art Festival

Haddonfield
Saturday, July 8-Sunday, July 9, 2023
Stroll through Downtown Haddonfield and check out crafts, outdoor cafes, music, and more at the 29th edition of this annual festival. READ MORE

Dig it! Plant it! Eat it!

Morristown
Saturdays from July 8-July 29, 2023
From pollinators to plant dyes, discover something new in nature each Saturday. The program runs rain or shine. READ MORE

Livingston Summer Concert Series

Livingston
Saturdays from July 9-August 6, 2023
Stop by the gazebo in Memorial Park Sunday nights for live music from local bands. READ MORE

Diversity Day on the Morristown Green

Morristown
Sunday, July 9, 2023
The Diversity Coalition of Morris County (DCMC) is proud to announce the 6th annual Diversity Day on the beautiful and historic Morristown Green. Diversity Day celebrates the diverse culture, religious, and ethnic gifts of neighbors who live and work in the Morristown community. READ MORE

Pirates on the Pier Show

Seaside Heights
Monday, July 10-Friday, July 14-2023
Bring the family for an enjoyable and interactive Pirate Show on the Pier, filled with singing, dancing and laughs. READ MORE

Anglesea Blues Festival

Wildwood
Friday, July 14-Sunday, July 16, 2023
All are invited to enjoy blues music and delicious barbecue at the Anglesea Blues Festival in beautiful North Wildwood. The festival features both national and regional blues musicians and is held in conjunction with the New Jersey State Barbecue Championship. READ MORE

NJ State Barbecue Championship

Wildwood
Friday, July 14-Sunday, July 16, 2023
Bring your appetite to this summer celebration of ribs, chicken, brisket, and pork. Between licking your fingers you can get some tips from the pit masters, listen to live music, and see some cooking demonstrations. READ MORE

Old-Fashioned Fun & Games at Historic Walnford

Upper Freehold
Sunday, July 16, 2023
Stop by Historic Walnford, and take part in a variety of historically-themed games to delight and challenge the whole family. READ MORE

Dino-SAURS

Seaside Heights
Monday, July 17-Friday, July 21, 2023
Dinosaurs are coming to Casino Pier. Experience learning about these dinosaurs and meeting them. It is an amazing experience for the whole family. READ MORE

City Green Farm Festival

Clifton
Thursday, July 20, 2023
Come to City Green Farm Eco-Center in Clifton for a free fun evening, with live music, lawn games, free kids activities, and BYO picnic. On the farm, check out the beautiful learning garden, and visit the animals. READ MORE

Christmas in July at Jenkinson's

Point Pleasant
Tuesday, July 25-Thursday, July 27, 2023
Santa Claus is coming to the shore in July! Take photos with Santa and enjoy a stroll, storytime and a holiday show. READ MORE

Night in Venice

Ocean City
Saturday, July 29. 2023
Ocean City's 68th annual boat parade is set to sail, and its theme is "It's a Philly Thing." Stick around after the flotilla to see a spectacular fireworks display. READ MORE

2023 Mercer County 4‑H Fair

Lambertville
Saturday, July 29 and Sunday, July 30, 2023
Spend the day enjoying everything this county fair has to offer, including animal shows, hay rides, pony rides, music, a magic show, homemade ice cream, and more.  READ MORE

Aerialist Show

Seaside Heights
Monday, July 31-Wednesday, August 9, 2023
Come enjoy the amazing aerial acts of Nikki Rush on the Pier. READ MORE

Free Events in NJ in August

Keansburg Movies on the Beach

Keansburg
Tuesdays, August 1-29, 2023
Spend Tuesday evenings at Keansburg beach for free movie screenings. Catch classics like Moana and Jaws. READ MORE

Free Movie Tuesdays at MPAC

Morristown
Tuesdays, August 1 and 15, 2023
Mayo Performing Arts Center presents hit movies on the big screen as part of its free Arts in the Community series, generously supported by ADP. Free tickets are available online.  READ MORE

Chatham Borough National Night Out

Chatham
Tuesday, August 1, 2023
Gather at Memorial Park for live music, free ice cream, food trucks, giveaways and more for the town's National Night Out celebration. Don't miss the dunk tank, frisbee toss and basketball shootout. READ MORE

National Night Out – Wildwood

Wildwood
Tuesday, August 1, 2023
Games, food, prizes and a dunk tank are all part of the fun at this WIldwood Police Department-sponsored event.  READ MORE

Summit's National Night Out

Summit
Tuesday, August 1, 2023
There's something for everyone on this night that fosters a positive relationship between the community and law enforcement agencies. Highlights include food trucks, a bicycle stunt show, live music, inflatables and free hot dogs. READ MORE

Casino Pier's Mightiest Celebration Ever

Seaside Heights
Wednesday, August 2, 2023
It is Casino Pier’s Mightiest Celebration Ever! Meet your favorite legendary Marvel Superheroes at Casino Pier, including Iron Man, Captain America, Captain Marvel, Spiderman and Thor. READ MORE

28th Annual Clam Festival

Highlands
Friday, August 4-Saturday, August 5, 2023
This annual event has fresh seafood, live entertainment, contests, vendors, crafters, and games. Stick around for a fireworks display on Saturday at Snug Harbor Beach. READ MORE

New Brunswick Heart Festival

New Brunswick
Saturday, August 12, 2023
The fourth annual New Brunswick Heart Festival celebrates the vibrant arts and history of New Brunswick and Middlesex Counties, featuring live music, dance, food vendors, interviews with local artists, and a wellness tent. READ MORE

Fire Show Trio

Seaside Heights
Thursdays and Fridays from August 17-August 25, 2023, 2023
Alluring, professional, and jaw-droppingly talented, come experience a free fire show on the pier stage that is guaranteed to wow. READ MORE

Canal Day Music & Craft Festival

Wharton
Saturday, August 19, 2023
Celebrate the Morris Canal at this country fair with live music, regional crafts, and tasty food. Take a trip down the canal on a mule-drawn boat, check out musical artists, take a kayak ride, and see the animal and cowboy shows. The festival winds down with fireworks. READ MORE

Long Branch Jazz and Blues Festival

Long Branch
Saturday, August 26, 2023
This annual event features jazz and blues music, local food, children's activities, crafts, games, and fun. READ MORE

Cranford Street Fair

Cranford
Sunday, August 27, 2023
Delicious food, handcrafted items, live music, and so much more make for a memorable  festival at this walkable celebration in downtown Cranford.  READ MORE

Free Things To Do in New Jersey Labor Day Weekend

St. Bartholomew/UNICO Italian Festival

Scotch Plains
Friday, September 1-Monday, September 4, 2023
This annual Italian fest is a Labor Day weekend tradition with something for everyone. There is nightly live music, rides, games, and delicious food, including favorites like pizza, pasta, zeppoles, clams, and calzones. READ MORE

Riverdale's Annual Labor Day Street Fair

Riverdale
Monday, September 4, 2023
Riverdale’s Annual Labor Day Street Fair closes its main street to traffic for a giant block party. Shop for a selection of assorted items, along with a special arts and crafts section, live entertainment, kiddie rides and games, great festival foods, and so much more.  READ MORE

Places featured in this article:

Essex County Parks
President Avenue Beach
Downtown Westfield
30th Street Beach
Philadephia Avenue Beach
Division Street Plaza
Museum of Early Trades and Crafts
Municipal Parking Lot
Eastman Clock Plaza
Riverside Gardens Park
Shady Rest Country Club House
John C. Bartlett Jr. County Park
Jake Branch County Park Nature Center
Verona Community Center
Downtown Cranford