Among its many virtues, Northern New Jersey is a region comprised of close communities. Towns like Mahwah, Ramsey, and Upper Saddle River frequently host local events, while larger festivals occur throughout Bergen County. These celebrations showcase the region’s civic pride while offering residents and visitors ways to gather socially. Festivals like Ramsey Day and USR Day provide a glimpse into the unique character of these towns — plus a fun way to spend the day.
This guide will explore upcoming festivals in four specific towns in Northern New Jersey, organized by their date in the summer of 2025.
Summer Sundays at the Hopper-Goetschius House – Upper Saddle River, NJ (July and August)
The Upper Saddle River Historical Society hosts a series of "Summer Sundays" at the Hopper-Goetschius House Museum. This event, which takes place on Sunday afternoons in July and August, provides a unique look into the local history of Upper Saddle River and the broader Northwest Bergen County region.
During these events, the museum and its outbuildings are open for tours and demonstrations, focusing on historical crafts and daily life. You can see demonstrations of weaving and yarn dyeing and learn about the difference between spinning flax and spinning wool. The event provides an immersive historical experience and a look into the region's heritage.
Ramsey Day — Ramsey, NJ (September 6)
Ramsey Day is a highly anticipated annual event in Ramsey, N.J., that provides a day of community celebration. The festival, which takes place in September, transforms Prospect Street into a bustling street fair with various activities and attractions. It is a long-standing tradition that brings residents together for fun and engagement.
The festival features an arts and crafts area, live musical performances, and a diverse group of vendors selling a wide array of items, including jewelry, handbags, and home decor. The event also includes a beer garden, and gourmet food trucks provide various cuisines. Ramsey Day is a comprehensive community festival, and its location on a central street makes it a great place to explore local businesses and meet other residents in a lively atmosphere.
USR Day — Upper Saddle River, NJ (September 13)
USR Day is an annual community event in Upper Saddle River, N.J., that provides a day of entertainment and activities for the town. The event is held at Lions Park and is sponsored by the Borough of Upper Saddle River. This festival serves as a fundraiser for USR Cares, a local organization that supports residents in a crisis.
The day's activities include music, inflatables, games, and an obstacle course provided by the PBA. Guests can patronize food vendors, browse retail exhibitors, and relax in a beer and wine tent. A special tent for seniors aged 70 and up offers a catered lunch and activities. Wristbands are available for unlimited access to the inflatables and rides.
Great Pumpkin Festival — Vernon, NJ (fall 2025)
The Great Pumpkin Festival is a seasonal event held at Heaven Hill Farm in Vernon, New Jersey. It runs from mid-September through early November and provides an extensive celebration of the autumn season. The festival offers a variety of activities centered around the themes of fall and agriculture.
The festival features a scenic hayride to a pumpkin patch where you can pick your own pumpkin. There is also a corn maze with a whimsical "Alice in Wonderland" theme. Other activities include interacting with farm animals, watching pig races, and attending a Canine Dog Show. On weekends, the festival has carnival rides, food vendors, face painting, and sand art.
Home for the Holidays Parade — Ramsey, NJ (December 2)
The Home for the Holidays Parade is a cherished annual event in Ramsey, N.J. The parade is a festive community gathering that celebrates the start of the holiday season. It is a long-standing tradition that draws many local participants and spectators.
This event is more than a parade. The Ramsey Chamber of Commerce partners with the Ramsey Volunteer Fire Department to host a holiday fair on Island Road before, during, and after the parade. The fair features a variety of food trucks, music, and other entertainment. There is also a holiday boutique with local vendors. The parade itself, which takes place on Main Street, is a highlight of the evening and a great way to get into the holiday spirit.
Hermitage Museum Vintage and Antique Fair — Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ (spring 2026)
The Hermitage Museum Vintage and Antique Fair is an event on the grounds of the historic Hermitage Museum in Ho-Ho-Kus, New Jersey. The fair is a partnership between JC Promotions and the Hermitage Museum, which is a National Historic Landmark.
The fair features approximately 60 exhibitors selling a wide variety of items, including collectibles, vintage items, jewelry, and furniture. Food trucks are also present, and the fair features live music. An appraisal service is available to appraise your items for a small fee. The museum is open for walk-through tours. Admission to the fair is a small fee, with the proceeds benefiting the Hermitage Museum.
Montvale Mile-Long Street Fair — Montvale, NJ (summer 2026)
The neighboring town of Montvale hosts a street-wide festival on Paragon Drive, which features a variety of vendors, live music, and activities. The festival, which typically takes place in late summer, offers many attractions that appeal to many different interests.
The festival includes an arts and crafts area, where you can find unique handmade goods. A beer garden run by a local pub provides a spot to enjoy a drink. With over 150 vendors, the festival offers many items, including jewelry, home decor, and clothing. The event also has gourmet food trucks.
FIFA World Cup — East Rutherford, NJ (summer 2026)
MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, is a host venue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a major international event. The stadium will host eight World Cup matches, including the final match on Sunday, July 19, 2026.
This is a significant moment for the region, as it will be at the center of the global sports world.
The stadium is undergoing preparations to accommodate the event. New Jersey is expected to have a significant influx of international visitors and spectators, and the region is prepared with many hotel rooms and public transit options to MetLife Stadium. A 39-day FIFA Fan Festival is also planned in Liberty State Park in Jersey City, offering live match broadcasts, music, culture, food, and entertainment.
The stadium is undergoing preparations to accommodate the event. New Jersey is expected to have a significant influx of international visitors and spectators, and the region is prepared with many hotel rooms and public transit options to MetLife Stadium. A 39-day FIFA Fan Festival is also planned in Liberty State Park in Jersey City, offering live match broadcasts, music, culture, food, and entertainment.
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