Autumn in northern New Jersey brings a full schedule of seasonal events worth exploring. The region offers something new each weekend, from farms with pumpkin patches to art walks and book festivals.
If you’re searching for fall festivals Mahwah NJ residents can enjoy nearby, this guide covers standout options across Bergen County and neighboring towns. Each section explains what makes the event unique and why it deserves a spot on your fall calendar.
Secor Farms Hayrides – Mahwah, NJ
Secor Farms is a fall staple for Mahwah residents and visitors. The farm hosts hayrides that run from mid-September through the end of October. The ride passes ponds, willow trees, and seasonal displays before reaching the pumpkin patch. Visitors can explore two corn mazes, pick their own pumpkins, and relax under a rustic pergola.
Groups of 20 or more can book special hayrides, including a pumpkin and an apple for each participant. Lunches are served in the farm’s glass greenhouse, creating a complete outing. With its blend of scenic landscapes and classic autumn activities, Secor Farms highlights why fall festivals Mahwah NJ residents look forward to each year are so memorable.
Great Pumpkin Festival – Vernon, NJ
The Great Pumpkin Festival at Heaven Hill Farm runs through November 2 and is one of the most significant seasonal events in the area. Admission includes access to more than 35 activities, ranging from hayrides and a themed “Alice in Wonderland” corn maze to pig races and a canine stunt show. Visitors can test their aim with a giant slingshot, climb a straw pyramid, or check out the Boo Barn for a themed walk-through experience.
Food vendors and photo opportunities line the grounds, giving guests many options beyond the activities. The festival is especially popular for its blend of live entertainment and interactive stations that keep guests engaged throughout the day. This event is a top choice for those who want a large-scale experience close to Mahwah.
Wallington Fall Festival – Wallington, NJ
The Wallington Fall Festival takes place on October 3 and serves as a local celebration of the season. The event includes live music, vendor stalls, and seasonal food options. It’s held in a community setting, making it a straightforward option for residents who want an afternoon or evening outdoors without a long drive.
The smaller scale of this festival allows for more direct interaction with local businesses and vendors. Guests can sample food items, shop for handmade goods, and enjoy live performances in a relaxed environment. It’s an easy stop for anyone mapping out fall festivals Mahwah NJ residents can reach quickly.
Newark Arts Festival – Newark, NJ
Scheduled for October 8–12, the Newark Arts Festival highlights contemporary art across the city. Installations, performances, and exhibitions are held in multiple venues, from galleries to public spaces. The festival brings together established and emerging artists, allowing attendees to view new work across media.
In addition to visual art, visitors can expect music, performance art, and interactive events. The festival is renowned for drawing regional attention and showcasing Newark as a cultural hub. This is a strong choice emphasizing creative expression for those looking beyond traditional fall farm events.
Morristown Festival of Books – Morristown, NJ
On October 10–11, Morristown becomes the center of the literary world with its annual Festival of Books. Over 300 authors, including award winners and bestselling writers, are scheduled to appear. Events take place across town in venues ranging from historic buildings to public spaces.
Panels, readings, and signings are part of the schedule, with programs for general audiences and niche genres. The presence of Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award winners elevates the festival’s reputation, while the variety of events ensures something for every reader.
Montclair Film Festival – Montclair, NJ
Running October 17–26, the Montclair Film Festival is one of the state's most prominent events of its kind. Independent films, documentaries, comedies, and family programs make up the schedule. Industry panels and Q&A sessions provide behind-the-scenes insight for film fans.
Montclair’s venues, including theaters and cultural spaces, host screenings that bring in local audiences and film professionals. The festival is entering its 14th year, making it a well-established stop on the fall calendar. Attending offers a different take on seasonal events by highlighting creative work in cinema.
Maplewood Art Walk + Music Fest – Maplewood, NJ
The Maplewood Art Walk + Music Fest takes place on October 19. Over 50 artists showcase ceramics, photography, jewelry, and paintings along the town’s streets. Multiple music stages provide live performances throughout the day, creating an energetic backdrop to the visual displays.
Local restaurants and food vendors add another dimension to the festival. Guests can sample regional dishes while browsing artwork and enjoying performances. This event highlights the role of art and culture in seasonal festivals, making it a standout for those interested in creative expression as much as seasonal celebration.
Fall-O-Ween Festival – Verona, NJ
On October 25, Verona hosts its Fall-O-Ween Festival, which focuses on Halloween themes and seasonal fun. Costumes, themed activities, and seasonal vendors fill the schedule. The town center transforms into a lively hub where guests can explore different activities tailored to the holiday.
The festival draws residents and visitors who want a straightforward way to mark the season. It emphasizes themed entertainment, making it different from traditional pumpkin-picking events. Its location and timing make it a convenient addition to the calendar of fall festivals near Mahwah.
Hoboken Ragamuffin Parade – Hoboken, NJ
The Hoboken Ragamuffin Parade on October 31 is a long-standing Halloween tradition. The parade marches down Washington Street and features costumes, floats, and entertainment. Costume contests add an interactive element for attendees who want to join the fun.
The parade offers an urban take on fall festivities, combining city energy with holiday traditions. It’s a clear example of how different towns across northern New Jersey mark the season in their own style, providing another option beyond pumpkin patches and corn mazes.
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