St. Patrick’s Day 2026 in New Jersey: The Ultimate Guide to Parades, Festivals, and Irish Celebrations Across the Garden State & The Ultimate Guide to Easter Egg Hunts and Spring Festivals Across New Jersey in 2026
Every March, New Jersey transforms into a vibrant sea of green as communities across the state come together to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with parades, music, cultural festivals, and family-friendly traditions. From historic city processions to charming small-town celebrations along Main Streets and waterfront boardwalks, the Garden State hosts one of the most diverse and energetic St. Patrick’s Day seasons anywhere in the country.
With several major celebrations already underway earlier this month in places like Belmar and Atlantic City, the rest of March still promises an extraordinary lineup of events across North Jersey, Central Jersey, and the Jersey Shore. The coming weeks will feature dozens of parades and Irish-themed gatherings that bring together marching bands, cultural organizations, dancers, civic groups, and thousands of spectators celebrating Irish heritage and community pride.
Readers looking for more seasonal events, festivals, and family-friendly things to do throughout the Garden State can always explore the Explore New Jersey Activities & Fun hub, where new events and experiences are continuously being highlighted across New Jersey.
Newark’s Historic Parade Celebrates 91 Years
One of the most significant events on the statewide St. Patrick’s Day calendar takes place in Newark, where the city’s parade will mark its 91st year of celebration.
Set for March 13 at 1:00 PM, the Newark St. Patrick’s Day Parade stands as the oldest parade of its kind in New Jersey. Over the decades it has grown into one of the state’s most anticipated cultural traditions, drawing large crowds and participants from across the region.
This year’s event also introduces a new parade route near the Prudential Center, adding a fresh element to the longstanding tradition while keeping the heart of the celebration rooted in downtown Newark.
The parade typically features a mix of marching bands, pipe and drum units, Irish cultural organizations, local schools, community groups, and civic leaders. For many families in North Jersey, attending the Newark parade has become a generational tradition that marks the beginning of the St. Patrick’s Day weekend.
Morristown Leads a Packed Saturday of Celebrations
Saturday, March 14 may be the most event-filled day of the entire St. Patrick’s Day season in New Jersey, with multiple parades happening simultaneously throughout the state.
One of the day’s headline events takes place in Morristown, where the Morris County St. Patrick’s Day Parade will step off at 12:00 PM from South Street.
Morristown’s historic downtown provides a perfect backdrop for the celebration. Restaurants, pubs, and storefronts along the route often decorate their windows and welcome large crowds as the parade winds through town. The event draws families, students, and visitors from surrounding counties who come to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
With Morris County’s strong Irish-American heritage, the Morristown parade continues to grow each year as one of the region’s most beloved seasonal traditions.
The Jersey Shore Celebrates in North Wildwood and Sea Isle City
Along the Jersey Shore, St. Patrick’s Day festivities blend Irish heritage with coastal charm.
In North Wildwood, the parade on March 14 at 12:00 PM begins with a 10:00 AM Mass at St. Ann Church, reflecting the deep cultural and spiritual roots associated with the holiday. After the service, participants gather for a lively procession through the city’s streets.
Further up the coast, Sea Isle City will host its parade at 3:30 PM the same afternoon, bringing a uniquely playful twist to the celebrations. The event is famous for its “best-dressed” contest, where participants compete with creative green outfits, festive costumes, and elaborate Irish-themed attire.
Sea Isle’s celebration often extends beyond the parade itself, with restaurants and entertainment venues across the island joining the festivities throughout the day.
Central Jersey’s Community Parades Keep the Tradition Strong
Central Jersey communities are also hosting several highly anticipated parades during the St. Patrick’s Day season.
In Hamilton, the parade begins March 14 at 1:00 PM, stepping off from the Nottingham Firehouse. The event has grown into one of the region’s favorite community gatherings, featuring local organizations, youth groups, and cultural performers.
Meanwhile, the township of Union will also host a 1:00 PM parade on March 14, with marchers traveling along Morris Avenue toward Union Center. Spectators typically line the streets to watch floats, bands, and Irish dancers pass through the town’s vibrant downtown area.
These community-focused celebrations demonstrate how St. Patrick’s Day parades serve as more than just festive events—they are opportunities for neighbors, families, and civic groups to come together and celebrate shared heritage.
New Parades and Emerging Traditions
Among the most exciting developments this year is the first-ever St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Cranford, scheduled for March 15 at 1:00 PM.
The inaugural event will begin at the Cranford Community Center and marks the start of what organizers hope will become a new annual tradition for the Union County town.
New parades often carry a special energy as residents come together to build something new for their community. With strong participation expected from local schools, organizations, and businesses, Cranford’s first parade may quickly become a fixture on the state’s St. Patrick’s Day calendar.
Somerville Hosts One of America’s Top Parades
Also on March 15, Somerville will host one of the state’s most celebrated St. Patrick’s Day events.
The parade begins at 1:30 PM along Main Street, drawing thousands of spectators each year. Somerville’s celebration has gained national attention in recent years and has even been recognized as one of the top St. Patrick’s Day parades in the United States.
Main Street transforms into a festival atmosphere as marching bands, bagpipers, cultural organizations, and colorful floats make their way through the historic downtown district.
The combination of a vibrant parade and Somerville’s popular restaurants and shops makes the event a favorite destination for visitors across the state.
Bergenfield and South Amboy Continue Longstanding Traditions
Two more major parades take place on March 15 at 2:00 PM.
In Bergenfield, the Bergen County St. Patrick’s Day Parade will march along Washington Avenue, drawing large crowds from across northern New Jersey.
At the same time, South Amboy hosts its own family-friendly celebration, beginning on Pine Avenue and continuing toward Broadway. The event has become a beloved tradition in Middlesex County, bringing together local residents for a festive afternoon of Irish pride and community spirit.
Clinton and Ringwood Celebrate Small-Town Charm
The town of Clinton will hold its parade March 15 at 3:00 PM, hosted by the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick. The celebration moves through the picturesque downtown area, creating a charming small-town atmosphere that attracts visitors from across Hunterdon County.
The following weekend, Ringwood continues the festivities on March 21 at 1:00 PM, with a parade beginning at Ringwood Plaza and traveling along Skyline Drive.
Ringwood’s event reflects the strong sense of community that defines many of New Jersey’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
Highlands Adds a Patriotic Twist
One of the most unique events this year takes place in Highlands, where the parade on March 21 at 2:00 PM will feature more than 100 participating units.
This year’s event will also incorporate a special patriotic tribute honoring America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, blending Irish celebration with a nod to the nation’s broader history.
The Highlands parade has grown into one of the largest celebrations along the Jersey Shore and consistently draws large crowds eager to enjoy the waterfront setting and festive atmosphere.
Bayonne Closes Out the Parade Season
The final major St. Patrick’s Day parade of the season arrives in Bayonne on March 22 at 1:00 PM.
The event, now in its 43rd year, will step off at 5th Street and Broadway. Bayonne’s parade has become one of the most important Irish heritage celebrations in Hudson County, drawing participants from civic organizations, schools, and cultural groups throughout the region.
For many New Jersey residents, the Bayonne parade marks the closing chapter of the state’s extended St. Patrick’s Day celebration.
Irish Festivals and Cultural Events Expand the Celebration
Beyond the parades themselves, several festivals and live entertainment events are adding to the month-long celebration of Irish culture.
On March 14, the Toms River Irish Festival will bring live Irish music, food vendors, and local crafts to downtown Toms River from noon to 6:00 PM. Events like this allow visitors to enjoy traditional Irish cuisine, shop for handmade goods, and experience live performances that celebrate the rich heritage behind the holiday.
Meanwhile, music lovers can enjoy Andy Cooney’s Irish Cabaret, running March 16 through March 20 at Hunterdon Hills Playhouse. The show features classic Irish ballads, storytelling, and lively performances inspired by traditional Irish pub culture.
These cultural experiences offer another way for residents and visitors to participate in the celebration beyond the parade routes.
A Season of Irish Heritage Across New Jersey
St. Patrick’s Day celebrations across New Jersey reflect something deeper than a single holiday.
They represent the cultural traditions that have shaped communities across the state for generations. Irish immigrants and Irish-American families played a significant role in building cities, neighborhoods, and civic institutions throughout the Garden State.
Parades honoring St. Patrick have long served as opportunities for communities to celebrate heritage while welcoming neighbors from every background to participate in the festivities.
Today, those celebrations continue to evolve, blending traditional pipe bands and Irish dancers with modern community festivals, live entertainment, and family activities.
The Green Spirit of March in the Garden State
From the historic streets of Newark to the waterfront communities along the Jersey Shore, New Jersey’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations remain among the most vibrant cultural traditions in the region.
The weeks ahead promise packed sidewalks, lively music, colorful parades, and thousands of smiling faces dressed in green as residents gather to celebrate Irish heritage and community pride.
For anyone looking to experience the energy of the Garden State this March, there may be no better time to explore New Jersey than during St. Patrick’s Day parade season.
New Jersey hosts dozens of St. Patrick’s Day parades throughout March. Since several events occurred in early March (including Belmar and Atlantic City), here are the remaining major parades and festivals scheduled for the 2026 season:
Upcoming March 2026 Parades
| Date | Time | Location | Notable Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| March 13 | 1:00 PM | Newark | NJ’s oldest parade (91st year); follows a new route near Prudential Center. |
| March 14 | 12:00 PM | Morristown | Morris County’s main event; steps off from South Street. |
| March 14 | 12:00 PM | North Wildwood | Includes a 10:00 AM Mass at St. Ann Church before the procession. |
| March 14 | 1:00 PM | Hamilton | Steps off from Nottingham Firehouse; a Central Jersey favorite. |
| March 14 | 1:00 PM | Union | Marchers proceed along Morris Avenue toward Union Center. |
| March 14 | 3:30 PM | Sea Isle City | Features a “best-dressed” contest along the island. |
| March 15 | 1:00 PM | Cranford | The town’s first St. Patrick’s Parade, starting at the Community Center. |
| March 15 | 1:30 PM | Somerville | Named one of the best in the U.S. by Forbes; travels down Main Street. |
| March 15 | 2:00 PM | Bergenfield | The Bergen County St. Patrick’s Day Parade steps off on Washington Avenue. |
| March 15 | 2:00 PM | South Amboy | A family-friendly tradition moving from Pine Avenue to Broadway. |
| March 15 | 3:00 PM | Clinton | Hosted by the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick through the heart of town. |
| March 21 | 1:00 PM | Ringwood | Starts at Ringwood Plaza and proceeds down Skyline Drive. |
| March 21 | 2:00 PM | Highlands | Over 100 units; this year includes a patriotic nod to America’s 250th anniversary. |
| March 22 | 1:00 PM | Bayonne | Steps off at 5th Street and Broadway for its 43rd year. |
Irish Festivals & Special Events
- March 14: Toms River Irish Festival — Features local Irish bands, vendors, and food in downtown Toms River from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
- March 16-20: Andy Cooney’s Irish Cabaret — Nightly performances of classic ballads and jigs at Hunterdon Hills Playhouse.
Note on Cancellations: The Keyport St. Patrick’s Day Parade is not happening in 2025/2026, as organizers are planning a larger return for future seasons.
- NJIB’s Guide to 25+ New Jersey St. Patrick’s Day Parades 2026Feb 25, 2026 — NJIB’s Guide to 25+ New Jersey St. Patrick’s Day Parades 2026 * Belmar Lake Como St. Patrick’s Day Parade. March 1, 12:30 pm. The
- New Jersey St. Patrick’s Day Parades & Events – VisitNJ.orgMar 1, 2026 — Before or after the festivities, fuel up at a nearby Irish restaurant or pub to try traditional dishes and cheers-worthy drinks.
- Newark Saint Patrick’s Day Parade – Celebrating 91 years of …Parade Route Change Announcement – 91st Newark St. Patrick’s Day Parade (March 13, 2026) We are excited to share an important upda…Newark St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The Ultimate Guide to Easter Egg Hunts and Spring Festivals Across New Jersey in 2026
Spring in New Jersey arrives with a burst of color, warmer days, and one of the most cherished family traditions of the year: Easter egg hunts. With Easter Sunday falling on April 5 in 2026, communities throughout the Garden State are preparing a full calendar of celebrations designed to bring families outdoors and into parks, beaches, farms, museums, and even historic trains for festive springtime adventures.
From classic community egg hunts in picturesque town parks to creative beach scrambles along the Jersey Shore and immersive farm festivals filled with hayrides and animals, New Jersey’s Easter season offers one of the most diverse collections of family activities in the region. These events represent more than a seasonal tradition—they reflect the spirit of community that defines towns across the state.
Families looking to explore more seasonal experiences and community celebrations throughout the Garden State can follow the latest happenings through the Explore New Jersey Activities & Fun section, where events and attractions are highlighted year-round.
Spring Traditions Return to Town Parks Across the State
For many New Jersey families, Easter egg hunts in local parks represent the beginning of spring itself. Town recreation departments and community organizations host these events every year, creating festive environments where children race across fields in search of brightly colored eggs.
In Westfield, the annual egg hunt returns to the scenic grounds of Mindowaskin Park on March 22 from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. The event has become one of Union County’s most beloved spring traditions, attracting families from surrounding communities. Children will have the chance to meet the Easter Bunny during a special appearance at 1:00 PM, while the egg hunt itself encourages participants to explore the park’s green spaces in a lively search for hidden surprises. Advance registration is required due to the event’s popularity.
Nearby communities are also preparing their own celebrations.
Elizabeth will host multiple Easter egg hunts on March 28 across different city locations, giving families several opportunities to participate. The city will also hold an Easter Eggstravaganza on April 4 at Midtown, transforming the area into a festival atmosphere complete with games, prizes, and entertainment for children of all ages.
In Summit, the annual hunt will take place at the Village Green on March 28, where festivities begin at 1:00 PM before the egg hunt officially starts at 1:45 PM. The event is specifically designed for younger participants between the ages of two and eight, creating a safe and welcoming environment for children experiencing their first egg hunt.
Morristown Recreation will also welcome families on March 28 with a spring egg hunt at Lidgerwood Park, while Aberdeen Township hosts its celebration earlier in the week on March 26 from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM at Veterans Memorial Park.
Further south, Berkeley Township will hold its popular Spring in the Park celebration on March 28 from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Veterans Park in Bayville. The event expands beyond a traditional egg hunt to include inflatable attractions, games, and age-specific hunt areas designed to ensure every child has a memorable experience.
Jersey Shore Egg Hunts Bring Easter to the Sand
While most egg hunts take place in grassy parks, several New Jersey Shore communities offer a coastal twist on the tradition by bringing Easter celebrations directly to the beach.
One of the most unique events takes place at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk in Point Pleasant Beach, where the annual egg hunt on March 29 at 1:00 PM invites children to dig through the sand in search of hidden eggs. The oceanfront setting creates a playful atmosphere that blends classic Easter fun with the excitement of a beach day.
Another popular coastal event occurs the same day in Seaside Heights, where thousands of eggs will be hidden along the beach for children in different age groups to discover. The event transforms the shoreline into a colorful spring celebration that draws families from across Ocean County.
Further south along the Jersey Shore, the Greater Wildwood Jaycees Easter Egg Hunt will take place on April 4 at 12:00 PM on the Lincoln Avenue Beach. The free event welcomes children ages twelve and under and has become a longstanding tradition for families visiting the Wildwoods during the spring season.
Earlier that morning, the Step Back Foundation Easter Egg Hunt will be held at Allen Park in North Wildwood at 9:00 AM, offering another opportunity for families to participate in the holiday festivities.
Farms and Attractions Create Full Easter Festivals
While traditional egg hunts remain the centerpiece of the season, several New Jersey farms and attractions are expanding the experience into full spring festivals filled with activities for all ages.
One of the most immersive experiences is the Heaven Hill Farm EGGstravaganza in Vernon, running weekends from March 28 through April 12. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including scavenger hunts, hayrides, farm animals, and seasonal attractions that celebrate the arrival of spring.
The event has grown into one of North Jersey’s largest Easter-themed gatherings, drawing families eager to combine traditional egg hunts with the charm of a working farm environment.
In South Jersey, the Cape May County Zoo Easter ExtravaganZoo will take place April 3 through April 5 from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, offering families a creative blend of wildlife encounters and Easter fun. Children can participate in a “Bunny Hide and Seek” game throughout the zoo grounds and test their agility on the playful “HOPstacle” course.
Meanwhile, the historic Liberty Hall Museum in Union will host its annual Easter egg hunt on April 4 at 12:00 PM, inviting children to explore the museum’s scenic grounds while searching for hidden treats.
Even local breweries are joining the celebration. Readington Brewery in Neshanic Station will hold a festive egg hunt on March 29 at 2:00 PM, giving families a chance to enjoy a relaxed afternoon outing while children participate in the hunt.
Easter Bunny Train Rides Add Adventure to the Season
For families seeking something truly memorable, several of New Jersey’s historic railroads are offering Easter Bunny train rides that combine scenic travel with holiday fun.
The Delaware River Railroad Excursions in Phillipsburg will run special Easter trains on March 28, March 29, April 4, and April 5. Passengers will ride through scenic countryside before stopping at the Lime Kilns area, where children can participate in a traditional egg hunt.
Another beloved attraction is the Whippany Railway Museum’s EGGspress train, operating on March 28, March 29, and April 4. The forty-five minute ride includes appearances by the Easter Bunny and festive activities that transform the historic train into a moving holiday celebration.
Families in Central Jersey can also board the Black River & Western Railroad, which offers Easter Bunny excursions between March 21 and April 4 along its scenic route connecting Flemington and Ringoes.
Train rides like these offer something beyond a typical egg hunt, creating an experience that combines history, adventure, and holiday excitement.
Easter in New Jersey: A Celebration of Community and Spring
What makes New Jersey’s Easter season so special is the incredible variety of events taking place across the state. From quiet community parks to lively boardwalk beaches, family farms, zoos, museums, and railroads, the holiday brings together countless traditions that reflect the diversity of the Garden State itself.
These events offer children a chance to experience the simple joy of searching for hidden eggs while giving parents an opportunity to enjoy time outdoors as winter fades into spring.
For many families, these annual egg hunts become cherished traditions that children remember long after the baskets have been emptied and the chocolate has disappeared.
With Easter Sunday approaching on April 5, the coming weeks promise a full calendar of festive gatherings and unforgettable experiences across New Jersey. Whether attending a hometown park hunt, visiting the shore for a beach scramble, riding a historic train, or exploring a farm festival, there is no shortage of ways to celebrate the season.
Spring has officially arrived in the Garden State—and with it comes one of the most joyful family traditions of the year.
2026 Easter season (with Easter Sunday falling on April 5), New Jersey has a full schedule of egg hunts and festivals ranging from traditional park scrambles to unique beach and train-based events.
Traditional Town & Community Hunts
These events are typically free but may require residency or pre-registration.
- Westfield Annual Egg Hunt: March 22 (12:00 PM – 2:00 PM) at Mindowaskin Park. Includes a special appearance by the Easter Bunny at 1:00 PM. Registration is required.
- Elizabeth Easter Egg Hunts: March 28 at various city locations. A separate Easter Eggstravaganza is also held on April 4 at Midtown featuring games and prizes.
- Summit Easter Egg Hunt: March 28 (Festivities at 1:00 PM, Hunt at 1:45 PM) at the Village Green. Open to kids ages 2–8.
- Morristown Recreation Hunt: March 28 at Lidgerwood Park.
- Berkeley Township “Spring in the Park”: March 28 (12:00 PM – 4:00 PM) at Veterans Park in Bayville. Features age-bracketed hunts and inflatables.
- Aberdeen Township Hunt: March 26 (5:30 PM – 7:30 PM) at Veterans Memorial Park.
Unique Beach & Shore Hunts
- Jenkinson’s Boardwalk Egg Hunt: March 29 (1:00 PM) in Point Pleasant Beach. Kids dig for eggs buried in the sand.
- Seaside Heights Egg Hunt: March 29 (1:00 PM) on the beach. Thousands of eggs are hidden for various age groups.
- Greater Wildwood Jaycees Hunt: April 4 (12:00 PM) on the Lincoln Avenue Beach. Free event for kids 12 and under.
- Step Back Foundation Hunt: April 4 (9:00 AM) at Allen Park in North Wildwood.
Farms, Zoos & Attractions
- Heaven Hill Farm EGGstravaganza: Weekends, March 28 – April 12 in Vernon. Includes a scavenger hunt, hayrides, and farm animals.
- Cape May County Zoo Easter ExtravaganZoo: April 3 – April 5 (10:00 AM – 3:00 PM). Features a Bunny Hide and Seek game and a “HOPstacle” course.
- Liberty Hall Museum Annual Hunt: April 4 (12:00 PM) in Union. Kids search the historic grounds for treats.
- Readington Brewery Hunt: March 29 (2:00 PM) in Neshanic Station.
Easter Bunny Train Rides
These popular excursions often include an egg hunt at a stop along the tracks:
- Delaware River Railroad Excursions: March 28, 29 & April 4, 5 (Phillipsburg). Includes a stop at the Lime Kilns for an egg hunt.
- Whippany Railway Museum EGGspress: March 28, 29 & April 4 (Whippany). A 45-minute ride with the Easter Bunny.
- Black River & Western Railroad: March 21 – April 4 (Flemington/Ringoes).
