"Trick-or-treat!" Kids of all ages love reciting those magic words in exchange for bags filled with goodies. Walking through the streets and knocking on strangers’ doors late in the evening, however, may not be the best option for toddlers and preschoolers. Luckily, New Jersey offers plenty of opportunities for safe trick-or-treating in controlled environments. From pumpkin farms to amusement parks to community events, you can experience the fun of trick-or-treating without worry at these structured, family-friendly outings.

Read on for 20 fun ways to celebrate the holiday with little ones, and find even more Halloween happenings in our Event Calendar and Halloween Guide.

When done right, camping is a blast. It brings to reality idyllic stories of roasting marshmallows over a fire and telling imaginative stories while gazing at a night sky. Once the initial equipment is purchased, camping can be a frugal way to vacation – averaging about only $30 a night. Opportunities to camp around the country are endless, but if you’re new to camping or have young children, “experts” recommend beginning the adventure close to home. It just happens that Connecticut offers some fantastic campgrounds. We have five recommendations  for tent camping that your family can try out.  If you don't feel quite ready to pop up a tent, we mention a few locations that provide cabins for rent, while still keeping things basic. In addition, we offer some camping tips that will help make the experience that much more enjoyable.

For more ideas on how to have a great summer, browse our Summer Fun Guide.

Sure, you've probably visited your fair share of pumpkin, apple, and strawberry festivals. But have you been to a Podunk Bluegrass festival? Or a Sailfest? Or perhaps a Potato and Corn fest? Summer may be short here in Connecticut but it sure is jammin' with festivals from June through Labor Day. Whether you're planning to indulge in some strawberry shortcake piled high with whipped cream, check out some really cool cars at an antique car show, or groove to some reggae, there are so many family-friendly festivals happening all summer long. Grab a picnic basket and a blanket, pack your camera, and have some fun at one of these Connecticut festivals. And, be sure to check out our Connecticut Summer Fun Guide to help plan some pretty epic adventures with the whole crew this summer.