Autumn in New Jersey comes alive with crisp evenings, glowing leaves, and community traditions that bring neighbors together. One of the most anticipated fall events in Central Jersey is returning this October as the Morven Museum & Garden in Princeton hosts its annual Campfire Tales on Thursday, October 23, 2025, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Guests will gather around the fire pit in Morven’s picturesque Colonial Revival Garden, where flickering flames set the stage for an evening of storytelling under the autumn sky. The Princeton Storytelling Circle will share a collection of spooky tales inspired by the Halloween season as well as harvest-time stories meant to celebrate the traditions of fall.
The setting itself adds to the atmosphere. Morven, once the home of a signer of the Declaration of Independence and later five New Jersey governors, provides a historic backdrop that makes the event feel both timeless and uniquely local. With the scent of wood smoke in the air and the crackle of the fire, the campfire experience blends folklore with the charm of a landmark estate.
Attendees can enjoy hot cider and roast marshmallows for s’mores, making the night as much about cozy community gathering as it is about the stories. Morven will provide some seating and extra blankets, though visitors are encouraged to bring their own chairs and dress warmly. For families, this is an especially inviting way to introduce children to the joys of live storytelling while enjoying seasonal treats. The event is recommended for ages six and up, though younger children are welcome with family.
Tickets are $15, with children 10 and under admitted free. Because the program is limited to only 30 attendees, advance registration is strongly recommended. In the case of rain, the festivities will move indoors, where the museum will transform the evening into a candlelit storytelling experience that retains the warmth and intimacy of the outdoor version.
Events like Campfire Tales highlight the ways New Jersey’s cultural institutions bring history, folklore, and seasonal fun together for the community. From cider mills and pumpkin festivals to family-friendly storytelling gatherings like this one, the Garden State offers no shortage of activities that help residents and visitors embrace the fall season. For more ideas on seasonal outings and family adventures, visit Explore New Jersey’s Activities & Fun section.
The Morven Museum & Garden, located at 55 Stockton Street in Princeton, remains one of Central Jersey’s most treasured historic sites, offering year-round exhibitions, programs, and events that connect past and present. But on October 23, it won’t be history lessons drawing the crowds—it will be the magic of a campfire, the thrill of a ghost story, and the simple pleasures of autumn in New Jersey.
