Halloween in New Jersey wouldn’t feel complete without the glow of Brite Nites, the annual fall tradition at Wagner Farm Arboretum (WFA) in Warren. Now in its 13th year, the 2025 edition brings a new twist—“Brite Nites Lite”—a streamlined but still dazzling version of the beloved community fundraiser. Visitors can expect a family-friendly evening filled with hand-carved pumpkins, spooky fun, and plenty of seasonal treats, all while supporting the Arboretum’s mission as a nonprofit hub for education and community programs.
A Walk Through Pumpkin Magic
At the heart of the event is a quarter-mile path lined with thousands of hand-carved, LED-lit pumpkins. Each display tells its own story, ranging from playful seasonal scenes to intricate themed creations. Previous years have included imaginative setups like a Rutgers tailgate, pirate lairs, and skeletons operating excavation equipment—and 2025 promises to bring brand-new surprises along the trail. The glowing path makes for an unforgettable stroll that captures the spirit of Halloween without being too overwhelming for younger guests.
New Attractions and Spooky Extras
While the pumpkin displays are always the star, this year’s “Brite Nites Lite” offers a mix of updated activities. Families can enjoy lawn games such as pumpkin bowling, witch hat ring toss, and bucket toss, designed to bring out some friendly competition. For thrill-seekers, a specially marked “spooky section” off the main trail adds an extra jolt of Halloween atmosphere. Parents with little ones can easily bypass this area, making it easy to tailor the evening’s experience.
Food, Fun, and Photo Ops
No festival is complete without food, and Brite Nites brings in a lineup of popular local food trucks. Guests can look forward to pizza, ice cream, and seasonal snacks, along with a stop from the fan-favorite Scream Truck. Between bites, make time for the Halloween-themed photo stations set up throughout the grounds, which are designed to create lasting memories for families, couples, and groups of friends.
Event Details for 2025
- Location: Wagner Farm Arboretum, 197 Mountain Avenue, Warren, NJ
- Dates: Fridays and Saturdays, October 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, and 25, 2025
- Time: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. (gates close at 9:30 p.m.)
- Tickets: Must be purchased online at Wagner Farm Arboretum’s website; no tickets sold at the gate
- Admission: $10 (ages 13–61), $5 (children 5–12 and seniors 62+), free for children under 5
Because this is an outdoor event, schedules may change due to severe weather. Guests are encouraged to check WFA’s official website by mid-afternoon on event days for any cancellations or updates. If a night is canceled, tickets can be transferred to another available date.
A Fundraiser with Community Impact
Beyond the pumpkins and festivities, Brite Nites serves as one of the Arboretum’s most important fundraisers. Ticket sales directly support programs like The Giving Garden, which provides fresh produce to food pantries across New Jersey. Attending the event not only guarantees an evening of seasonal fun but also helps sustain initiatives that make a difference in the local community.
Planning Your Visit
Families are encouraged to dress kids in costumes to add to the festive spirit. Since the walking path is gravel, wagons are often a better option than strollers for young children. Parking is available on-site, but arriving early is recommended to avoid crowds during peak hours.
For those seeking more seasonal outings and entertainment in New Jersey, you can explore additional attractions and events through Explore New Jersey.
Brite Nites at Wagner Farm Arboretum continues to shine as one of New Jersey’s favorite Halloween experiences, blending artistry, community, and seasonal fun in a way that keeps families coming back year after year.
