New Jersey is once again turning into a Halloween playground this fall, offering everything from bone-chilling haunted houses to pumpkin-packed family festivals. With events stretching across every corner of the state, residents and visitors alike can find a celebration that matches their appetite for scares, fun, or seasonal charm.
October 2025 Brings a Packed Calendar of Live Entertainment and Cultural Events Across New Jersey. Halloween in New Jersey is shaping up to be one of the busiest months of the year for live performances, theater, and cultural gatherings. From Broadway-style productions and beloved musicals to concerts, comedy shows, and special screenings, the state will be buzzing with activity for audiences of all ages.
The month kicks off with a theatrical favorite as Bull Durham takes the stage, offering a mix of drama, humor, and baseball nostalgia that will appeal to fans of both theater and America’s pastime. Later in the month, An Old-Fashioned Family Murder will bring a twist of mystery and suspense to local playhouses, giving audiences a chance to experience the intrigue of a classic whodunit.
One of the most anticipated highlights will be The Rocky Horror Picture Show – 50th Anniversary Celebration. Generations of fans have turned this cult classic into a Halloween-season ritual, and theaters across the state will honor its milestone anniversary with special screenings, costumes, and sing-alongs. For those who can’t get enough of the spooky fun, a dedicated Halloween screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show will also take place later in the month, cementing its role as a must-attend October event.
Music fans won’t be left out. Andy Bell of Erasure brings his Ten Crowns Tour to New Jersey, giving audiences a rare chance to see the iconic voice of synth-pop live on stage. Meanwhile, The Billy Joel Songbook featuring Chris Pinnella will celebrate the timeless catalog of one of America’s most beloved singer-songwriters, and The BSTREETBAND will keep the spirit of the Jersey Shore alive with their tribute to Bruce Springsteen at Drew University.
October also offers plenty for fans of larger-than-life performances. Families will be drawn to Disney On Ice – Moana 2 & Classic Disney Favorites, a spectacle that combines the magic of Disney storytelling with dazzling ice choreography. Broadway enthusiasts can look forward to productions of Cats, Assassins, and Mrs. Doubtfire, each promising high-energy performances and a chance to experience beloved shows without leaving the Garden State.
Comedy will take center stage when Anthony Rodia brings his Laugh Till It Hurts Tour to town, offering sharp observations and relatable humor. Fans of high-energy tribute performances will also find plenty to enjoy, from Who’s Bad? The Ultimate Michael Jackson Experience to Great Balls of Fire!!!, which channels the spirit of Jerry Lee Lewis.
For those who enjoy edgier performances, Biohazard will deliver their signature sound, keeping the state’s live music scene as diverse as ever. Theater lovers can also support the local arts community at Help Keep the Arts Alive at the Sieminski Theater!, a special event that underscores the importance of supporting cultural venues and performers.
With so many options spanning theater, music, comedy, and family entertainment, October will be a month to remember for New Jersey audiences. Whether you’re planning to relive the magic of cult classics, sing along to timeless hits, or introduce your family to the wonder of live shows, there’s no shortage of events to choose from.
In Camden County, the beloved Blackwood Pumpkin Festival is set to return on Sunday, October 5, 2025. This community tradition transforms downtown Blackwood into a seasonal fairground filled with vendors, food, entertainment, and family activities. The event has become one of the region’s most anticipated fall gatherings, drawing thousands each year.
For adults seeking something more spirited, Mount Holly’s Witches Ball once again promises to turn the historic downtown into a Halloween wonderland. Known for its elaborate costumes, street vendors, and live entertainment, the Witches Ball is part party, part performance, and a highlight of South Jersey’s Halloween season. Similarly, Jersey City will play host to its annual Halloween Night Market on October 31, bringing more than 30 food and craft vendors, a live DJ, and a costume contest to Harborside, offering a waterfront celebration that keeps the energy high until late.
Across the Shore, the Surf City Hotel on Long Beach Island is throwing its own Halloween bash on October 31 with live music and a spirited costume contest, while in Ocean County, Toms River’s historic Mathis House will welcome families for a Halloween party complete with buffet dining, games, and prime views of the town’s annual parade. For fans of the classics, Haddon Heights is offering the Vintage Fright Fest, a free three-day marathon of old-school horror films running through Halloween weekend at the public library. And in Westfield, the annual AdamsFest pays tribute to hometown legend Charles Addams with haunted house contests, themed art displays, and its signature “Wicked Windows” installations.
Thrill seekers looking for scares won’t be disappointed. Brighton Asylum in Passaic, frequently ranked among the scariest haunted houses in America, continues to expand its lineup of immersive experiences, from elaborate sets to live performers. In Somerville, the “Legends of the Devil State” walking tour on October 18 will explore the folklore and ghost stories that have haunted New Jersey for generations. Randolph’s Haunted Trail at Veterans Community Park returns October 24–25 with haunted walks, hayrides, and activities for children. For those looking for a different kind of Halloween spectacle, the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark will host The Vampire Circus on October 23, an acrobatic show that blends aerial artistry with gothic flair.
Families have plenty of options, too. Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson will combine its world-class rides with Halloween festivities, while Phillipsburg’s Great Pumpkin Train offers families a scenic fall ride with pumpkins for every child. Sussex County’s Green Valley Farms will hold its Fall Harvest Festival and BBQ on October 11, complete with hayrides, music, and food. Union’s Liberty Hall Museum is once again staging its Pumpkin Patch Day on October 25 with crafts, games, and tractor rides. In Jersey City, families can head to the Halloween Family Bash on October 31 at the Newark Avenue Pedestrian Plaza for face painting, a corn maze, and games. Cape May’s Emlen Physick Estate will continue its popular Scarecrow Walk, while Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange will bring back its “Zoo Boo” weekend to give children a safe, festive trick-or-treating experience.
Parades remain a cornerstone of Halloween in New Jersey, with many towns celebrating long-standing traditions. Medford’s Halloween Parade, one of the oldest and largest in the state, marks its 78th year on October 25. Ocean City will host its annual Asbury Avenue parade on October 30, while Bordentown brings back its colorful procession down Farnsworth Avenue on October 26. Caldwell’s Halloween Festival and Parade is set for October 18, and Newton will close out the season with a parade and trunk-or-treat event on Halloween night itself.
Other unique experiences include the Amazing Pumpkin Carve at Woolsey Park in Titusville, where artists create massive illuminated displays, and ghost tours in historic towns like Atlantic City, which give visitors a chance to walk through some of the state’s most haunted locations. In Mount Laurel, the Alice Paul Center will host a family-oriented Halloween celebration on October 11 featuring crafts, fortune-telling games, and a special program on the history of tarot cards.
Halloween Night Comes Alive at 3BR Distillery in Keyport
If you’re searching for a thrilling way to celebrate Halloween in New Jersey, look no further than 3BR Distillery’s Halloween Bash, happening Friday, October 31, 2025, from 6:00 PM to midnight. This spooky celebration promises a full evening of fun, fright, and festivities tailored for adults 21 and over — all set in the heart of downtown Keyport.
Known for its inventive spirits and vibrant atmosphere, 3BR Distillery is going all out this year with a Halloween event that blends nightlife energy with classic seasonal charm. Expect a packed lineup of entertainment including live DJs spinning into the late hours, interactive games, and a high-stakes costume contest where creativity can earn you more than just compliments.
Located at 7 Main Street in Keyport, 3BR Distillery has quickly become a standout in New Jersey’s craft distilling scene. With its edgy cocktails, welcoming vibe, and community-driven events, it’s no surprise they’re throwing one of the most anticipated Halloween parties on the Jersey Shore. Attendees can enjoy expertly crafted drinks featuring 3BR’s unique house spirits while dancing the night away in full costume.
Whether you’re dressing up as something creepy, classic, or clever, don’t miss your chance to show off your costume — prizes are on the line, and the competition is expected to be fierce. Bring your A-game, your dancing shoes, and a group of friends ready to party.
And for craft beverage lovers, there’s an extra perk: New Jersey Craft Beer (NJCB) Members can take advantage of 10% off their bill just by showing their membership at the bar. It’s a great excuse to sip and save while enjoying the best of what 3BR has to offer.
This adults-only event is the perfect mix of nightlife and Halloween spirit. Whether you’re a regular at 3BR or looking to explore something new, it’s a great way to get into the spooky season while supporting a local New Jersey favorite.
To discover more great local breweries and distilleries across the state, check out Explore New Jersey’s guide to beer and breweries.
Make sure to mark your calendars, plan your costume, and get ready for a haunted night of music, drinks, and unforgettable memories at 3BR Distillery this Halloween.
pooktacular Character Brunch Returns to iPlay America This October
Get ready for a Halloween celebration unlike any other at iPlay America, where the Pumpkin King and Queen are taking over The Bistro for a morning of family fun on Sunday, October 19, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. This free event promises a festive atmosphere packed with games, activities, and photo opportunities perfect for children of all ages.
Families can mingle with their favorite Halloween characters, enjoying hugs, high-fives, and spooky photo ops that capture the magic of the season. The event encourages interaction and excitement, giving kids the chance to make memories that last far beyond the morning. Whether your little ones are meeting witches, ghosts, or pumpkin royalty, the Character Brunch blends playful entertainment with seasonal thrills in a safe and welcoming environment.
The celebration includes a variety of kid-friendly perks, such as complimentary photo sessions with the characters, a Halloween-themed coloring book to spark creativity, and a specialty kids’ menu featuring seasonal treats. From fun snacks to festive beverages, children can enjoy a fully immersive experience that combines food, art, and playful engagement.
iPlay America’s Character Brunch is part of a growing lineup of Halloween events throughout New Jersey that cater to families looking for safe, entertaining, and interactive activities this season. The event captures the spirit of fall, blending costumes, decorations, and themed experiences that bring the excitement of Halloween to life.
Whether you’re planning a morning outing with your children or looking for a unique way to kick off your Halloween weekend, the Character Brunch offers an ideal opportunity to celebrate the season together. With photo opportunities, games, and themed treats, the event creates a festive atmosphere where families can connect and enjoy the magic of Halloween in a fun, engaging setting.
For more information on Halloween festivities, haunted attractions, and family-friendly celebrations across the Garden State, visit Explore New Jersey’s Halloween 2025 guide to plan a season full of spooky fun and unforgettable experiences.
The Jack-O’-Lantern Experience Returns to Skylands Stadium with Bigger Displays, Theme Nights, and Family Fun
Autumn in New Jersey is about to get a whole lot brighter—and spookier—as the Jack-O’-Lantern Experience returns to Skylands Stadium for the 2025 season. Kicking off on September 26 and running through November 2, this beloved fall festival promises over 6,000 illuminated jack-o’-lanterns, interactive attractions, live entertainment, and seasonal treats for visitors of all ages.
This year’s edition is shaping up to be the largest yet, with brand-new displays and immersive walk-through experiences designed to delight kids and adults alike. Attendees can explore a 45-minute trail featuring intricate pumpkin carvings and installations, all combined with an interactive corn maze presented by Lentini Farms, adding a hands-on adventure to the visual spectacle.
Exciting Theme Nights for Every Weekend
The festival introduces special theme nights throughout the week, giving families and thrill-seekers something new each visit.
- Thursdays: Movie Night on the Field – Enjoy a family-friendly film experience under the stars with seasonal snacks and cozy blankets.
- Fridays: Trick-or-Treat Night – Local vendors and businesses offer candy, treats, and surprises along the pathway, perfect for kids of all ages.
- Saturdays: Monster Mash Saturdays – Live music, dance, and party vibes make this evening ideal for teens and adults seeking an energetic, festive atmosphere.
- Sundays: Kids Craft Nights – Little ones can channel their creativity with pumpkin painting, Halloween crafts, and hands-on activities.
Food, Drinks, and Free Parking
Guests can savor seasonal foods and beverages provided by The Barnyard, or relax in the event’s beer garden, making it a perfect outing for both families and adults. Skylands Stadium also offers free parking, ensuring convenience for all attendees.
Tickets and VIP Experiences
Tickets are available in two tiers:
- Standard Ticket ($20 per person) – Provides full access to the walk-through experience on a reserved date.
- VIP Ticket ($39 per person) – Includes a walk-through pass valid for any day, a VIP badge, and a complimentary drink token. VIP tickets offer flexibility and added perks for those looking to maximize their experience.
With thousands of glowing pumpkins, interactive activities, and themed evenings, the 2025 Jack-O’-Lantern Experience promises to be the area’s most spooktacular fall tradition. Attendees are encouraged to purchase tickets early, as popular nights often sell out quickly.
Annual Witch-Craft Festival 2025 – Hammonton, NJ
Get ready for a spellbinding weekend as Witch-Craft 2025 returns to Hammonton this October. Mark your calendars for Friday, October 10 and Saturday, October 11, when the town transforms into a lively Halloween-inspired celebration filled with craft brews, eerie entertainment, and plenty of tricks and treats.
This one-of-a-kind event combines the magic of autumn with the thrill of craft beer and local flavors, making it a must-visit for festival lovers across New Jersey. Expect themed experiences, haunted vibes, and a gathering of breweries and vendors bringing seasonal favorites to life.
🎃 Event Dates:
- Friday, October 10, 2025
- Saturday, October 11, 2025
📍 Location: Hammonton, New Jersey
✨ Highlights Include:
- Dozens of craft breweries pouring fall-inspired favorites
- Spooky seasonal décor and entertainment
- Witchy photo ops, games, and Halloween fun
- An atmosphere that celebrates both the craft scene and the spirit of the season
Tickets are required in advance, and discounts are available for NJCB members.
PAL Halloween Parade Returns with Costumes, Music, and Family Fun. Get ready for a spooktacular celebration as the PAL Halloween Parade returns, inviting children, teens, adults, and seniors to show off their creativity in costumes and enjoy an afternoon of festive entertainment. Participants are encouraged to gather at 25 Deforest Avenue at 2:45 PM, with the parade marching promptly at 3 PM along the scenic route from Deforest Avenue to Beechwood Road, continuing to Union Place, then Maple Street, and concluding at the Village Green at 356 Broad Street.
Once the parade reaches the Village Green, the fun continues with music, entertainment, and seasonal treats from 3 PM to 4:15 PM. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in the costume contest, walking across the main stage to showcase their outfits. Winners will be announced at 4:15 PM, with prizes awarded for first, second, and third place in categories including Most 2025 Relevant, Scariest, Cutest, Best Group, Most Original, Mayor’s Choice, and Best Overall.
Music and entertainment will keep the festive spirit alive until 5 PM, making the PAL Halloween Parade a highlight of the season for families, friends, and community members. The event combines neighborhood tradition, creative expression, and a fun-filled afternoon, ensuring that everyone—whether young or young at heart—can celebrate the spirit of Halloween together.
BOOgie Bash: Beyond The Boogie’s Trunk or Treat Returns to Montclair This October
Montclair is set to come alive with music, costumes, and plenty of candy as Beyond The Boogie Dance Company hosts its annual BOOgie Bash Trunk or Treat on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This free, family-friendly celebration will take place at the Bellevue Avenue Parking Lot in Montclair, offering local families a safe and festive way to enjoy Halloween.
Kids and parents alike are encouraged to put on their best costumes and join in the fun. The event blends a traditional trunk-or-treat experience with the signature energy of Beyond The Boogie’s dance community. Cars will be decorated in spooky and creative themes, stocked with candy for trick-or-treaters, while the dance party brings an extra layer of excitement. Families can expect a lively atmosphere filled with music, movement, and a chance for children to show off both their dance moves and their costumes.
The BOOgie Bash is designed with younger families in mind but appeals to a wide range of ages. Preschoolers, kids, tweens, and even teens will find plenty to enjoy during the celebration. The mid-morning timeframe makes it perfect for families who want a Halloween event that feels safe, local, and easy to attend without the late-night crowds of traditional trick-or-treating.
Montclair has long been known as one of Essex County’s cultural hubs, and events like this highlight why the town remains such a desirable place for families. It’s not just about the vibrant downtown and thriving arts scene—it’s about the community-driven activities that bring neighbors together. From local dance studios like Beyond The Boogie to seasonal markets, parades, and neighborhood events, Montclair continues to deliver a small-town feel within Northern New Jersey’s bustling landscape. More about Montclair’s family-friendly atmosphere and housing opportunities can be found here.
Beyond The Boogie Dance Company, located at 604 Valley Road, has built a reputation not only for high-quality dance instruction but also for fostering community connections. Events like the BOOgie Bash show how much the studio values creating memorable experiences for children and families outside of the classroom. It’s not just about learning choreography—it’s about celebrating milestones, holidays, and moments that bring joy and creativity to everyday life.
Parents can also rest easy knowing this event provides a safe alternative to traditional trick-or-treating. With organized activities, plenty of supervision, and a central location in Montclair, the BOOgie Bash has quickly become one of the go-to fall events for Northern New Jersey families.
For families in Bergen, Essex, and across the Northern New Jersey region, the BOOgie Bash is worth the trip. Between the festive décor, costumed crowds, and infectious energy of a community dance party, it’s an event that captures the playful spirit of Halloween while keeping the focus on family fun.
If you’re looking for a way to kick off Halloween weekend in style, mark your calendar for October 25 and bring the kids to Montclair. Whether your little ones want to dance, collect candy, or simply soak in the holiday atmosphere, Beyond The Boogie’s BOOgie Bash is ready to deliver a Halloween experience that’s safe, spirited, and full of community pride.
Jacks & Lights Brings a Pumpkin Wonderland to Argos Farm
Autumn in New Jersey means crisp evenings, colorful foliage, and festive family outings, and one of the season’s most anticipated events is making its return to Forked River. Jacks & Lights at Argos Farm has become a must-visit attraction, transforming the farm into a glowing wonderland filled with artistry, entertainment, and fall tradition.
The event features thousands of hand-carved jack-o’-lanterns arranged along an illuminated walking trail. Visitors of all ages are invited to wander the path as pumpkins of every size and shape come to life in dazzling displays, creating a mix of spooky charm and breathtaking beauty. The glowing scenes stretch across the farm, giving guests plenty of opportunities to snap photos and take in the magical atmosphere.
In addition to the pumpkin trail, Argos Farm offers a full slate of seasonal fun. Families can explore the pumpkin patch and pick their own gourds, get lost in the flashlight maze, and indulge in classic fall treats. The farm’s festive setup makes it more than just a walk-through attraction—it’s a full evening out, perfect for families, couples, and groups of friends looking to celebrate the season.
Jacks & Lights is designed to be enjoyed by guests of all ages, making it one of the most family-friendly fall activities in Ocean County. Children will love the glowing pumpkins and interactive fun, while adults can appreciate the artistry and festive ambiance. It’s the type of seasonal event that blends tradition with creativity, giving everyone something to look forward to year after year.
This year’s schedule gives visitors plenty of chances to attend. Jacks & Lights runs every Thursday through Sunday, beginning Thursday, October 2, 2025, and continuing through Sunday, November 2, 2025. In addition, the event will be open on Monday, October 13, for the holiday weekend. Each evening features various time slots, ensuring that families can plan their visit around their schedule.
Here are the dates to mark on your calendar:
- Thursday, October 2 – Sunday, October 5
- Thursday, October 9 – Sunday, October 12
- Monday, October 13
- Thursday, October 16 – Sunday, October 19
- Thursday, October 23 – Sunday, October 26
- Thursday, October 30 – Sunday, November 2
Tickets start at $21.95, and with the event’s growing popularity, advance booking is strongly encouraged.
Argos Farm, located at 1250 Lacey Road in Forked River, provides the perfect backdrop for the event, offering visitors an authentic New Jersey farm experience with a seasonal twist. From the lantern trail to the farm-style entertainment, the setting combines rustic charm with unforgettable fall fun.
For families looking to add a little extra magic to their October plans, Jacks & Lights is an event not to miss. Whether you’re coming for the artistry of the glowing pumpkins, the thrill of the maze, or simply the joy of a night under the autumn sky, it’s a celebration of everything the season has to offer. To discover more events and attractions happening across the Garden State, visit Explore New Jersey Entertainment.
Fall Harvest Festival at Tice’s Corner Marketplace – Woodcliff Lake, NJ
Celebrate the season at the Fall Harvest Festival happening at Tice’s Corner Marketplace on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. This family-friendly event brings autumn to life with activities for all ages and plenty of festive fun.
Visitors can enjoy bounce houses, face painting, balloon artistry, and a variety of fall-themed games that capture the spirit of the season. Guests are encouraged to arrive in costume, with prizes awarded to the top three costumes of the day.
Best of all, admission is free, making this seasonal celebration the perfect way for families, friends, and neighbors to spend a crisp October day together.
📅 Date & Time: Saturday, October 18, 2025 | 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
📍 Location: Tice’s Corner Marketplace, 441 Chestnut Ridge Rd, Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677
🎟️ Cost: Free
👨👩👧 Recommended For: All ages
If you’re looking for festive events this October, the Fall Harvest Festival at Tice’s Corner Marketplace offers the perfect blend of seasonal fun, community spirit, and family entertainment.
Thompson Park Day
The Monmouth County Park System holds an annual fall festival at
Thompson Park in Lincroft, a section of Middletown.
- Location: Thompson Park, Lincroft, NJ.
- Date: Sunday, October 19, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Activities: The day features a wide array of activities, including:
- Archery
- Climbing wall
- Wagon rides
- Kids’ races and games
- Pumpkin painting
- Ceramics and pottery demonstrations
- A Scarecrow Contest
- Live entertainment
- Food vendors
Cranford’s Scarecrow Stroll
During the annual Scarecrow Stroll, the streets of downtown Cranford are lined with handcrafted scarecrows.
- Location: Downtown Cranford, NJ.
- Dates: The stroll runs from October 10 to October 31, 2025.
- Scarecrow Contest: Community members, families, and local businesses create and display scarecrows, with prizes awarded in different categories.
- Candy Stroll: In addition to the scarecrows, the town hosts a Candy Stroll on October 11 and 12 for children to collect candy at participating businesses.
Westfield’s AddamsFest
This annual October festival honors Charles Addams, the creator of The Addams Family, who was a Westfield native. The theme for 2025 is “Femme Fatale: Morticia & More,” celebrating the iconic female characters.
- Locations: Multiple locations in downtown Westfield, NJ.
- Dates: Events take place throughout October 2025.
- Featured events: Key attractions for the 2025 festival include:
- Morticia & Gomez’s Masquerade Ball: A ticketed event on Friday, October 10.
- “Femme Fatale: Morticia & More” art exhibit: Runs on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, from October 10–26.
- Addams Family House on Mindowaskin Pond: A floating, themed house on the pond throughout the month.
- Wicked Windows of Westfield: Businesses decorate their storefronts with Halloween and Addams Family themes.
- Haunt Your House Contest: A decorating competition with a community voting period from October 12–30.
- Charlie’s Ale Garden: An evening event at the Westfield Armory on Saturday, October 18.
- Addams Family Fun Day: A family-friendly event on Quimby Street on Sunday, October 19.
- Lantern Cemetery Tours: Guided tours at the Presbyterian Church of Westfield on October 11 and 12.
More Festivals and parties
- Annual Blackwood Pumpkin Festival: This festival features vendors, entertainment, and fall fun in downtown Blackwood. It is scheduled for Sunday, October 5, 2025.
- Witches Ball: Held in Mount Holly, this adult-oriented event transforms the town into a Halloween wonderland with vendors, entertainment, and a costume contest.
- Jersey City Halloween Night Market: The Jersey City Halloween Food Fest and Night Market on October 31, 2025, will have over 30 vendors, a live DJ, and a costume contest at Harborside.
- Surf City Hotel Halloween Party: This party on October 31, 2025, features live music and a costume contest.
- Mathis House Halloween Party: This is a family-friendly party in Toms River on October 31, 2025, with music, a buffet, games, and a great view of the town’s parade.
- VINTAGE FRIGHT FEST: This free, three-day classic horror movie festival is set for Halloween weekend at the Haddon Heights Public Library.
- AdamsFest: Westfield celebrates the Addams Family with events throughout October, including a “Haunt Your House Contest” and “Wicked Windows” displays.
Haunted attractions
- Brighton Asylum: Located in Passaic, this Halloween destination includes multiple haunted houses, live entertainment, and escape rooms.
- Legends of the Devil State: A 55-minute walking tour on October 18, 2025, in downtown Somerville exploring famous New Jersey ghost stories.
- Haunted Trail in Randolph: This event in Veterans Community Park runs on October 24–25, 2025, and includes a haunted trail walk, glitter tattoos, and hayrides.
- Halloween House: These indoor, multi-room Halloween attractions in Deptford and Freehold feature more fun and “wow” than typical haunted houses.
- Halloween Ghost Hunt in Newark: A ghost hunt on October 30, 2025, taking participants through the haunted streets of Newark.
- The Vampire Circus: An acrobatic and aerial show with a dark twist, coming to the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark on October 23, 2025.
- 4-H Haunted House and Hayride: This annual event takes place at the Middlesex County 4-H Center in East Brunswick.
Family-friendly fall events
- Six Flags Great Adventure & Safari (Jackson): The park offers Halloween festivities, rides, and a safari experience.
- The Great Pumpkin Train: Based in Phillipsburg, this train ride is a popular activity for families.
- GVF Fall Harvest Festival and BBQ: A weekend festival on October 11, 2025, at Green Valley Farms in Sussex, with pumpkin picking, hayrides, and music.
- Annual Pumpkin Patch Day at Liberty Hall Museum: This event in Union on October 25, 2025, offers pumpkin picking, tractor rides, games, and crafts.
- Halloween Family Bash in Jersey City: Hosted on the Newark Avenue Pedestrian Plaza, this event on October 31, 2025, features a corn maze, games, face painting, and more.
- Annual Scarecrow Walk: Located at the Emlen Physick Estate in Cape May.
- Turtle Back Zoo (West Orange): The zoo typically offers special Halloween events, including its “Zoo Boo” celebration.
Halloween parades
- Medford Halloween Parade: This annual parade, now in its 78th year, is scheduled for October 25, 2025, and features floats, music, and costumes.
- Ocean City Halloween Parade: The annual parade on Asbury Avenue will take place on October 30, 2025.
- Bordentown Halloween Parade: Held on Farnsworth Avenue, this parade is scheduled for October 26, 2025.
- Caldwell Annual Halloween Festival & Parade: This event is scheduled for October 18, 2025.
- Newton Halloween Parade: This parade on October 31, 2025, includes a costume contest, pet walk, and trunk-or-treat.
Other unique events
- Amazing Pumpkin Carve: This unique event at Woolsey Park in Titusville features an illuminated walk of creative pumpkin carvings.
- Ghost Tours: Locations such as Atlantic City offer historical ghost tours that explore haunted sites.
What’s Fright Fest & Kids Boo Fest
Every fall, Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, NJ transforms into a Halloween extravaganza. From ominous scare zones and haunted mazes to family-friendly daytime fun, Fright Fest is the darker, more intense side of the Halloween season, while Kids Boo Fest offers gentler entertainment for younger visitors.
Fright Fest begins its run on Friday, September 12, 2025, and continues through Sunday, November 2, 2025 on select nights. During the day, the park offers Kids Boo Fest (on select dates), and after sunset (around 7:00 PM) the full spooky experience of Fright Fest kicks in.
What You’ll Find
Kids Boo Fest
- Day-time Halloween fun geared toward families and younger children.
- Trick-or-treating paths, friendly character photo ops, kid-appropriate shows, and other fall festivities that lean more toward fun than fear.
- Costume friendly (with some guidelines), decorations, and seasonal treats. Ideal for children who want Halloween energy without the extreme scares.
Fright Fest
- After dark, the park fully embraces the Halloween fright: live scare actors roaming through themed Scare Zones, haunted mazes (premium, pay-extra attractions), eerie lighting, fog, and atmospheric storytelling.
- Evening shows and entertainment with darker themes. The rides are still open, but the ambiance changes once dusk falls.
- Some events, mazes or zones may be intense, so there are warnings about suitability for younger children.
Dates & Timing to Know
- Fright Fest runs from September 12 through November 2, 2025, on select nights.
- Kids Boo Fest is scheduled on many of the same dates but occurs earlier in the day. After a certain time in the evening (often around 7 PM), Kids Boo Fest transitions into the Fright Fest atmosphere.
Tips for Visitors
- Plan by time of day & audience: Families with kids may want to arrive in the morning or early afternoon to enjoy Kids Boo Fest and leave before the scarier elements begin. If you’re up for chills and thrills, stay into the evening.
- Check the calendar: Since Fright Fest is on select nights, verify specific operating dates ahead of time, especially if you plan to attend haunted mazes (they may have separate schedules or require extra tickets).
- Comfort & safety: Wear comfortable shoes, dress in layers (night brings cooler temps), and follow costume guidelines. Be mindful that certain zones might be overwhelming for younger children.
- Tickets and extras: Haunted mazes are often “premium” attractions with an extra fee; many other effects, shows, and scare zones are included with regular admission. Being strategic—doing popular rides before dusk, catching shows before heavy crowds—can improve your experience. 94.5 PST+1
Why It’s Worth Going
Six Flags Great Adventure’s Fright Fest & Kids Boo Fest offer something for almost everyone: families with small kids looking for Halloween fun without scares, thrill-seekers wanting eerie atmospheres and haunted adventures, and everyone in between. It’s a chance to enjoy rides, live entertainment, seasonal decor, and festive food in one place.
From spooky thrills to family traditions, New Jersey’s Halloween season offers something for everyone. Whether it’s parades, haunted houses, or neighborhood festivals, October is one of the busiest and most spirited months on the state’s calendar. For more guides on seasonal celebrations, concerts, and cultural events throughout the Garden State, visit Explore New Jersey Entertainment.
