We’re at that halfway point of summer and hopefully you’ve filled your days with some quality family time, both indoors and out! If you’ve still got a bucket list full of summer must dos, New Jersey has some great events going on this weekend. Treat your little train lover to a railroad ride during A Day Out with Thomas, stuff yourself silly with sweets at the NJ State Ice Cream Festival in Toms River or set sail along the beautiful Palisades during a Rock’n River Sail excursion. And if you’re looking to take in some awesome summer theater with the kiddos, get tickets to see Aladdin at the Broadway Theatre of Pitman or the pirate adventure Treasure Island at the Somerset Playhouse. Also, you can check out the full list of weekend activities on our Event Calendar and don't miss our Summer of Play Guide with 100s of ideas for a fun, playful, and tech-free summer!

After the big family barbecues and firework shows that mark our 4th of July celebrations, you might be tempted to just put your feet up and relax a bit this coming weekend. And while there’s certainly nothing wrong with that, if you’re looking for more family fun (or a way to entertain the restless kiddos) Jersey still has some great events going on. Check out the always popular Blueberry Bash at Terhune Orchards, bring your little ones to explore the Clifford the Big Red Dog exhibit at Liberty Science Center or take a laid back summer hike at Tenafly Nature Center.

Also, you can check out the full list of weekend activities on our Event Calendar, and don't forget, we've declared this summer to be the Summer of Play! So what are you waiting for? Get out there, make playhouses out of cardboard, count birds and flowers on your street, paint masterpieces with sidewalk chalk, and turn your lawn into a gameboard. Looking for some inspiration? We can get you started with a list of 100 Ways to Play.

Now, play is its own reward, but there’s no reason we can’t sweeten the pot.  Share your summer fun ideas, photos, and tips on social media and we just might return the favor with some fun-makin' gear. Let the hashtags begin!

Now that everyone is officially done with school and 80 degree weather is upon us, those lazy and fun days of summer are here! Festivals abound this time of year in Jersey so get out there and celebrate all things Italian down the shore at the Italian-American Festival in North Wildwood or get in touch with your Puerto Rican roots at Camden Children’s Garden Festival de Aibonito. For more outdoor adventure, check out the crowded, loud and fun NJ State Fair in the Meadowlands or dress up the kiddos for Hoboken’s 13th Annual Baby Parade. Check out the full list of weekend activities on our Event Calendar.