Discover 10 must attend family events in New Jersey and the New York Metro area this fall 2025. From fall festivals and pumpkin patches to kid-friendly fairs, here’s where to go for unforgettable family fun.
Fall in New Jersey and New York is the perfect season for families crisp air, colorful leaves, and plenty of exciting events that bring communities together. Whether you’re searching for a weekend festival, a pumpkin picking adventure, or a fun indoor activity, the NJ/NY metro area has something for every family. Here are 10 must-see family-friendly events happening this fall 2025.
Harvest Festival at Demarest Farms (NJ)
When: September 14 October 27, 2025 (weekends)
Where: Hillsdale, NJ
Highlights: Apple picking, hayrides, live music, and delicious cider donuts.
Tip: Arrive early on weekends to avoid long lines.
Great Pumpkin Blaze (NY)
When: September 20 November 16, 2025
Where: Hudson Valley, NY
Highlights: Over 7,000 hand carved glowing pumpkins set up in creative displays.
Tip: Buy tickets in advance they sell out quickly!
Liberty Science Center Family Night (NJ)
When: October 5, 2025
Where: Jersey City, NJ
Highlights: Hands on science exhibits, planetarium shows, and kid friendly experiments.
Tip: Kids under 2 enter free perfect for young families.
Montclair Fall Festival (NJ)
When: October 5, 2025
Where: Jersey City, NJ
Highlights: Hands on science exhibits, planetarium shows, and kid friendly experiments.
Tip: Kids under 2 enter free perfect for young families.
Queens County Fair (NYC)
When: September 20, 22, 2025
Where: Floral Park, NY
Highlights: Petting zoo, pumpkin patch, carnival rides, and farm to table food.
Tip: Perfect for toddlers and young kids small, manageable fairgrounds.
Central Park Pumpkin Flotilla (NYC)
When: October 30, 2025
Where: Central Park, NYC
Highlights: Families carve pumpkins and watch them float across the Harlem Meer at night.
Tip: Bring your own pumpkin and arrive early for carving stations.
Field Station Dinosaurs: Halloween Adventure (NJ)
When: October weekends, 2025
Where: Leonia, NJ
Highlights: Life sized dinosaur exhibits, trick or treating trails, and costume contests.
Tip: Great event for dino loving kids!
Brooklyn Children’s Museum Fall Fest (NYC)
When: October 19, 20, 2025
Where: Brooklyn, NY
Highlights: Music performances, storytelling sessions, and interactive workshops.
Tip: Check their website for free admission days.
Turtle Back Zoo “Zoo Boo” (NJ)
When: October 25–26, 2025
Where: West Orange, NJ
Highlights: Trick or treating stations, spooky animal exhibits, and family activities.
Tip: Costumes encouraged for kids!
Hoboken Harvest Festival (NJ)
When: October 26, 2025
Where: Pier A Park, Hoboken, NJ
Highlights: Pony rides, pumpkin patch, crafts, and live performances by local bands.
Tip: Bring a picnic blanket to enjoy the riverfront views