Local Town Fairs Scheduled In September and October

by Joseph Matassa

As the summer winds down and the crisp air of fall begins to settle in, New Jersey's local town fairs are gearing up to bring communities together with a celebration of culture, food, and fun. From family-friendly entertainment to artisan crafts and delicious eats, September and October are packed with can’t-miss events throughout the Garden State.

Whether you're looking for a weekend outing, family adventure, or a chance to support local vendors, these town fairs are perfect for making memories. Here's a list of some of the best fairs happening this season in New Jersey.

1. Chester Harvest Festival

Date: September 23, 2024
Location: Downtown Chester, NJ
Head to downtown Chester for one of the most anticipated harvest festivals of the season. With a craft beer garden, live bands, a chili cook-off, and dozens of local artisans, it’s the perfect event to welcome the fall. Kids will love the hayrides and face painting, while adults can indulge in gourmet food trucks and seasonal brews.

2. Middletown Fall Festival

Date: September 28, 2024
Location: Croydon Hall, Middletown, NJ
Celebrate the start of fall with live music, a variety of local food vendors, craft booths, and a pumpkin patch for the kids. Enjoy classic fair rides and games for the entire family. Don’t miss out on the seasonal treats, including apple cider doughnuts and fresh pumpkin spice lattes.

3. Manasquan Fall Fair

Date: September 28, 2024
Location: Main Street, Manasquan, NJ
Take in the coastal charm of Manasquan while enjoying live performances, food stalls, and handmade goods from local artists. The Manasquan Fall Fair is a family favorite, featuring a kid’s zone, craft booths, and a farmers market showcasing the best produce of the season.

4. Haddonfield Fall Festival

Date: October 12, 2024
Location: Kings Highway, Haddonfield, NJ
Known for its charming small-town feel, Haddonfield's Fall Festival is perfect for the whole family. With live music, seasonal food vendors, and a juried craft fair, this event brings out the best of the local community. Be sure to stop by the historic sites while you’re in town.

5. Toms River Harvest Festival

Date: October 19, 2024
Location: Downtown Toms River, NJ
Join the Toms River community for a day of fun with carnival games, rides, and live music. Shop local vendors for unique crafts, enjoy freshly made treats, and take part in the annual pie-eating contest. The fall foliage and scenic backdrop make this festival a must-see.

6. Red Bank Guinness Oyster Festival

Date: October 22, 2024
Location: Downtown Red Bank, NJ
Red Bank’s annual Oyster Festival is the highlight of the fall season, bringing seafood lovers together to enjoy fresh oysters, craft beer, and live entertainment. A portion of the proceeds goes to local charities, making this event both fun and philanthropic.

7. Hoboken Harvest Market

Date: October 29, 2024
Location: Hoboken, NJ
Take in the stunning Manhattan skyline as you stroll through Hoboken’s Harvest Market. This outdoor festival features local farmers, bakers, and artisans, offering everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Enjoy the live performances while you savor seasonal treats like caramel apples and kettle corn.