New Jersey is the place to be for anyone looking to embrace the fall season in all its glory. From pumpkin picking to thrilling hayrides, scenic corn mazes, and vibrant festivals, the Garden State offers a diverse array of activities perfect for family fun. Whether you’re looking for a traditional pumpkin patch experience or seeking out larger-than-life festivals with entertainment and food vendors, New Jersey has something for everyone. Here’s a roundup of the best pumpkin farms and fall events across the state this season.
Northern New Jersey
Abma’s Farm (Wyckoff)
Abma’s Farm is a family-friendly destination known for its welcoming atmosphere and a variety of activities. Offering hayrides through their pumpkin patch, guests can enjoy fresh apple cider and donuts from their market. The petting zoo is a favorite for kids, but advance tickets are required for this, as well as for the hayrides, making it a must-do for early planners.
Heaven Hill Farm (Vernon)
Vernon’s Heaven Hill Farm is one of New Jersey’s top agritourism locations. Their famous Great Pumpkin Festival runs every weekend throughout the fall and features everything from pumpkin picking to pig races, carnival rides, and even farm animals. It’s an ideal place for families to spend the day enjoying all things fall.
Demarest Farms (Hillsdale)
Located in Bergen County, Demarest Farms is a go-to fall spot for pumpkin enthusiasts. With its reservation-based system for pumpkin picking, families can also enjoy hayrides, playgrounds, and the captivating Halloween Light Show after the sun goes down. This is a place that offers both daytime fun and spooky nighttime activities, perfect for those looking for a unique autumn experience.
Conklin Farm U-Pick (Montville)
If you prefer a smaller, more intimate farm experience, Conklin Farm in Montville is the place to go. They offer a quaint pumpkin patch, a toddler-friendly corn maze, and hayrides. On weekends, their “haunted hayride” adds a spooky twist to the family fun, making it an ideal destination for both young children and those who enjoy a lighthearted scare.
Ort Farms (Long Valley)
Ort Farms is a family-owned farm offering a packed lineup of activities throughout the fall. With pumpkin picking, hayrides, and apple cannons, it’s the perfect place for an action-packed day. Don’t miss the monster truck rides, which are a hit with both kids and adults. This farm is a fall festival haven with something for everyone.
Snyder’s Farm (Somerset)
Snyder’s Farm offers one of the most extensive fall experiences in New Jersey. With a sprawling pumpkin patch, sunflower picking, corn maze, and even a pumpkin cannon, this farm goes all out for fall festivities. The large slide and food trucks add to the appeal, making it a great destination for families to enjoy an afternoon of fun.
Central New Jersey
Happy Day Farm (Manalapan)
Happy Day Farm is the ultimate family fall destination. Featuring over 35 attractions, including a corn maze, pony rides, and farm animals, there’s no shortage of activities. The farm’s pumpkin patch is a popular draw, and it’s best to purchase tickets in advance to ensure access to all the fun. Be sure to explore the fun zone and enjoy the farm’s signature offerings.
Oasis Family Farm (Robbinsville)
For a mix of pumpkin picking and farm fun, Oasis Family Farm in Robbinsville is an excellent option. On weekends, enjoy picking your own pumpkins and exploring the children’s Fun Zone, which includes a hay pyramid, farm animals, and wagon rides. The farm also offers seasonal activities perfect for little ones and families looking for a relaxing day out.
Terhune Orchards (Princeton)
At Terhune Orchards, you’ll find a classic fall experience with pick-your-own pumpkins, hay bale mazes, and a variety of family activities. The farm is also home to a picturesque vineyard and offers a peaceful retreat to enjoy the autumn atmosphere. With timed-entry tickets required, it’s a good idea to plan ahead to ensure your visit is smooth and stress-free.
Southern New Jersey
Duffield’s Farm Market (Sewell)
Duffield’s Farm Market is a local favorite with hayrides, a petting zoo, and a delicious market filled with homemade treats. The farm is perfect for families looking for a more laid-back experience, offering a beautiful setting to pick pumpkins and enjoy the seasonal sights. Be sure to stop by the market for some fresh baked goods and seasonal produce to bring home.
Johnson’s Corner Farm (Medford)
Johnson’s Corner Farm in Medford offers a large pumpkin patch, hayrides, and even a corn maze that’s perfect for families to navigate together. In addition to pumpkin picking, the farm hosts live music, gem mining, and offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy their famous pies and fresh cider. It’s a great place for a full day of fall fun.
Johnson’s Locust Hall Farm (Jobstown)
Located in Jobstown, Johnson’s Locust Hall Farm requires reservations for its Fall Harvest Park, which includes activities like pumpkin and apple picking, a corn maze, and hayrides. It’s an excellent spot for families looking for a bit of everything, including a peaceful atmosphere that’s perfect for making fall memories.
Springdale Farm Market (Cherry Hill)
This family-friendly farm in Cherry Hill offers a seasonal corn maze, hayrides, and a pumpkin patch that’s perfect for a weekend outing. With freshly baked goods available at their market, you’ll leave with not only pumpkins but delicious treats to enjoy back at home.
Notable Fall Events and Displays
The Amazing Pumpkin Carve (Titusville)
Head to Woolsey Park in Titusville for the Amazing Pumpkin Carve, where you’ll find dozens of intricately carved giant pumpkins, live music, and even pumpkin painting activities. It’s a must-see event for families who love the artistic side of Halloween.
Jack O’ Lantern Experience at Skylands Stadium (Augusta)
The Jack O’ Lantern Experience at Skylands Stadium features a stunning walk-through display of over 5,000 hand-carved and illuminated pumpkins. It’s a mesmerizing experience that families won’t forget, with photo opportunities and plenty of fall fun to be had.
Blackwood Pumpkin Festival
Hosted by the Mainstage Center for the Arts, the Blackwood Pumpkin Festival brings a mix of vendors, entertainment, and community spirit to Downtown Blackwood. It’s the perfect event for families to shop, eat, and enjoy live performances, all while celebrating the fall season.
More Fall Fun in New Jersey
In addition to the numerous farms and pumpkin patches, New Jersey boasts a variety of fall-themed festivals and events that cater to all ages. Whether you’re interested in food festivals, Oktoberfest celebrations, or craft fairs, there’s always something happening to celebrate the season. For those who enjoy food and music, don’t miss events like the Saucetoberfest in Stockton or the Hanover Twp. PBA Food, Wine & Brew Festival in Whippany. Families can enjoy festivals like the Margate Fall Funfest and the 2025 NJ Railroad Festival, which offer plenty of food, entertainment, and kid-friendly activities.
For those looking for unique experiences, Holland Ridge Farms in Cream Ridge offers a stunning sunflower festival, while Needle Creek Farm Brewery in Pennington pairs seasonal activities with craft beer for a perfect mix of fall fun.
Before heading out, make sure to check the event websites for the latest details, including hours, ticket information, and any special activities. With so many options to choose from, there’s no better time to explore New Jersey’s rich fall season. For even more events and attractions, be sure to check out Explore New Jersey.
New Jersey truly comes alive in the fall, offering an unforgettable experience for families. Whether you’re picking pumpkins, exploring mazes, or enjoying festive foods, this state offers everything you need to make the most of the season.
New Jersey offers a wide selection of pumpkin farms and fall festivals for families to enjoy, with many starting in late September and running through October. From traditional pick-your-own pumpkin patches to elaborate festivals with hayrides, corn mazes, and food vendors, there are options all across the state. n’t typically start until the second half of September and run through October.
Here are some farms and festivals that begin in the latter half of September:
- Twin Pond Farm (Freehold): Their harvest season is set to begin on Saturday, September 20, 2025, offering pumpkin and sunflower picking, a corn maze, and other activities.
- Allaire Community Farm (Wall): Their Fall Harvest Festival runs from late September through November.
- Hedge Field Fall Fest (Bridgeton): The 2025 festival is scheduled to open on September 27.
- Stella Farms (Berlin): Their Annual Fall Festival starts on September 27.
- Russo’s Harvest Festival (Tabernacle): Their festival is planned for September 27, with apple and pumpkin picking.
- Whitesbog Preservation Trust (Browns Mills): This organization is hosting a Fall Festival and Pinelands Discovery Day on September 20 and 21.
While you might find some earlier, smaller-scale offerings, for a true pumpkin festival with a full range of activities, it is best to plan your visit for late September or any weekend in October.
Here are some highlights for late September 2025:
- Saucetoberfest (Stockton): This two-day festival at Cross Country Nurseries on September 27–28 features spicy food challenges, craft vendors, and plenty of hot sauce.
- Hanover Twp. PBA Food, Wine & Brew Festival (Whippany): This festival on September 27 at Bee Meadow Park includes live music, food trucks, and craft vendors.
- Oktoberfest celebrations: Many breweries and restaurants kick off their Oktoberfest celebrations in late September, including:
- Pequannock Oktoberfest (Pompton Plains): Features unlimited beer, food trucks, carnival rides, and live music on September 27.
- The Barrow House Oktoberfest (Clifton): Offers German-inspired food and beer specials from September 20 through early October.
- Medford Oktoberfest (Medford): This festival on September 19 includes live music, food trucks, beer, and vendors.
- Taste of Atlantic Highlands (Atlantic Highlands): On September 21, local eateries offer a taste of their finest dishes with harbor views.
- Hillsborough Restaurant Week (Hillsborough Township): From September 23–28, participating local restaurants offer deals and specials for both dine-in and takeout.
Family and community events
- Margate Fall Funfest (Margate City): This free, two-day festival on September 27–28 brings over 20,000 visitors for food, shopping, music, and kid’s activities along the bayfront.
- 2025 NJ Railroad Festival (Phillipsburg): This festival on September 27 celebrates the area’s transportation history with a museum, miniature train rides, food, and crafts.
- Mount Olive Parade and Family Celebration (Budd Lake): This event on September 27 at Turkey Brook Park includes a parade, food trucks, live music, and kid’s activities.
- Mid-Autumn Festival (Basking Ridge): Hosted by Bernards Chinese American Association on September 27, this event celebrates tradition and history at The Ross Farm.
- Funtober at The Funplex (Mount Laurel): This event at the amusement park runs on weekends from late September through October with live music, food, and games.
Craft fairs and arts events
- Cherry Hill Fall Craft and Vendor Event (Cherry Hill Mall): This event from September 19–21 features a variety of artisans, crafters, and vendors.
- Glen Rock Street Fair & Craft Show (Glen Rock): This event on September 21 includes crafters, food, and activities for kids.
- Crafts & Collectibles By the Sea (Cape May): High-quality craft and collectible vendors set up at the Emlen Physick Estate on September 20.
- Fall Market at The Yard Market (Manahawkin): Local artists, makers, and growers are featured at this market on September 27.
Agricultural and harvest events
- Holland Ridge Farms Sunflower Festival (Cream Ridge): This popular event features sunflower picking and photo opportunities starting in late September.
- Family Fall Weekends at Needle Creek Farm Brewery (Pennington): Starting September 26, this event offers seasonal activities, family fun, and craft beer.
It is recommended to check the specific event websites for confirmation of dates, times, and any necessary ticket reservations before planning your visit.
