New Jersey This Weekend:
Events, Festivals, and Top Things to Do
June 1, 2026
Planning your weekend in the Garden State? Whether you’re searching for family-friendly festivals, trending food events, or the best indoor performances, we’ve curated the definitive guide to New Jersey events for June 5, 6, 7, 2026.
- New Jersey has a strong mix of free festivals, parades, and cultural events this weekend, especially Greek, Juneteenth, Holi, and heritage celebrations.
- Family-friendly options are easy to find, with carnival rides, live music, kids' zones, games, and food at many outdoor events.
- Food and drink events are a big draw, including food truck festivals, wine tastings, restaurant week, and cocktail crawls.
- If you want live entertainment, there are indoor shows, film festival screenings, Broadway-style theater, and major concert acts.
- Several events combine music, local vendors, and community causes, so you can find fun outings that also support nonprofits.
- Many of the biggest events are outdoors, so weather, parking, and arrival time matter, especially on Saturday.
From the Jersey Shore to the Skylands, our selection prioritizes top-rated public gatherings and seasonal highlights to help you make the most of your Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Outdoor Events in New Jersey This Weekend
Soak Up the Season: New Jersey’s Must-See Seasonal Outdoor Events
Annual Bayshore Greek Fest
Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, June 4, 5, 6, 7, 2026
Kimisis Tis Theotokou Greek Orthodox Church,
20 Hillcrest Road,
Holmdel NJ
This family Greek festival features a calebration and taste of Greek Culture with Greek food, pastry, specialty items, folk dancing, music, rides, games, and prizes. Festival goers will have the chance to partake in and also watch traditional Greek folk dances that are performed by costumed children from the various Kimisis dance groups. Music and entertainment is presented all weekend long.
Cost: Admission is free. Rides, food, and other attractions are available for a fee.
Annual Feast of St. Anthony
Thursday, June 4, through Sunday, June 7, 2026
Roman Catholic Church of the Assumption,
113 Chiego Place,
Roselle Park, NJ
This annual festival will feature delicious food, non-stop entertainment with live music, amusements, games, and fun for the whole family. It is also a faith oriented celebration focusing on devotion to St. Anthony.
After the Noon Mass on Sunday, there will be a procession through the streets with the statue of St. Anthony accompanied with music.
Cost:
Admission is free. Rides, food, and other attractions are available for a fee.
Egg Harbor Holy Trinity Greek Festival
Thursday - Sunday, June 4, 5, 6, 7, 2026
Mill and Ridge Avenues,
Egg Harbor Township, NJ
This beloved community celebration fills the festival grounds with the aromas of authentic Greek cooking, from gyros and souvlaki to fresh pastries like baklava and loukoumades, all prepared by parish volunteers. Guests can enjoy live Greek music, traditional dancing, a bustling marketplace of crafts and imports, and family friendly activities that make it easy to spend an entire afternoon soaking in the festive atmosphere.
Cost: Admission is free. Rides, food, and other attractions are available for a fee.
Annual Flemington Opa! Festival
Friday, Saturday, Sunday, June 5, 6, 7, 2026
St. Anna Greek Orthodox Church,
85 Vorhees Corner Road,
Flemington, NJ
This family friendly Greek festival featurs Greek food, shopping, fun, and entertainment. Guests can dine indoors or outside under the tent, enjoying classic oven baked items and popular grill selections such as souvlaki and gyros. Wine and beer also available. All can enjoy carnival games, shopping, and folk dancing entertainment.
Cost: Admission is free. Rides, food, and other attractions are available for a fee.
L.E.A.D. Fest Carnival
June 5. 6, 7, 2026
Westfield Garden State Plaza,
One Garden State Plaza,
Paramus, NJ
This event features
good food, rides, and entertainment, hosted by Law Enforcement Against Drugs & Violence (L.E.A.D.) a non profit (501C3) organization, supported by dedicated police officers, committed to protecting our youth and communities from the proliferation of drugs, drug related crimes, peer to peer/cyber bullying and violence.
Cost:
Admission is $5; additional price for ride tickets.
NAACP Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration
Saturday, June 5, 2026
500 Plainfield Avenue,
Edison, NJ
This family event features
a day filled with joy, reflection, and unity. The event will include:
A lineup of sensational live performances, hosted by WBLS Radio Personality Dr. Bob Lee, showcasing the rich diversity of African American culture. Music by DJ Sequence, Food, Children's Zone, Health & Wellness area, Basketball Tournament, and more with vendor booths, educational exhibits, and interactive experiences.
Cost: Free
Holi Hai Color Festival
Saturday, June 6, 2026:12pm
Exchange Place, Jersey City, NJ
Celebrate the spirit of India's festival of colors as Exchange Place bursts to life with vibrant powder throws, Bollywood beats, dance performances, and family friendly fun. This waterfront celebration invites all ages to join in the joy, unity, and high energy color play, with food vendors and cultural activities rounding out the afternoon.
Cost: Admission is free, but Registration is mandatory.
Mercer County Cultural Festival
June 6, 2026: 11am until 7pm
Mercer County Park,
1063 Hughes Drive,
Hamilton, NJ
This annual family event features
live performances of music and dance, with traditional art demonstrations showcasing many diverse cultures. Food trucks will be on-site.
Cost: Free
Montclair African-American Heritage Foundation Parade & Festival
Saturday, June 6, 2026
48 High St, Nishuane Park, Montclair, NJ
This celebration features full day, community driven celebration of culture, history, and pride in Montclair. The parade steps off at 10:30 AM from Glenfield Middle School (25 Maple Ave) and leads into an afternoon festival at Nishuane Park with live music, cultural performances, food and merchandise vendors, art, kids' activities, and family zones.
Cost:
Admission is free
New Jersey Renaissance Faire
June 6-7, 13-14, 2026
Burlington County Fairgrounds,
1990 Jacksonville Jobstown Rd.,
Columbus, NJ
The grounds are transformed into a lively medieval village filled with costumed performers, artisan vendors, and interactive entertainment. Expect jousting tournaments, comedy shows, live music, themed food and drink, and plenty of opportunities to mingle with knights, rogues, and royalty.
Cost: $33.36 (Adult Flex), $28.19 (Adult Fixed ), $12.66
(Child FLEX Day Age 5-12)
Rally for the Rivers Eco-Fest
June 6, 2026: 9:30am - 12:30pm
Victyory Park, Rumson, NJ
Rally for the Rivers Eco-Fest is a different kind of outing. It blends live music, eco-art, and hands-on learning about river care, so the day feels both fun and grounded in a real local cause. It's a smart choice for families, eco-minded visitors, and people who enjoy community events with a purpose. The appeal is simple: you leave with more than photos and snacks.
Cost: Free
Rock Hunger IX
Saturday, June 6, 2026: 2 pm
Old Canal Inn,
2 East Passaic Ave,
Nutley, NJ
A high-energy music festival, featuring several well-respected local bands.
Live music performers include Porch Rockers, The Sticky Wickets, Project Blue Book, & The Anna Felice Band.
Cash bar, menu available, tricky tray prizes and 50/50 raffle are available to attendants. Rock Hunger is a franchised event with national recognition. All proceeds benefit NFSB programs including the Food Pantry.
Cost: $25 per person when purchased in advance online.
Steampunk Alchemy Fest
June 6, 2026: 10am - 10pm
Vasa Park,
1 Vasa Drive,
Hackettstown, NJ
A unique summer festival event that celebrates the creativity, innovation, immersion, diversity, and inclusivity. This family friendly outdoor festival features bands, live entertainment, vendors, cosplay, and food. bring your tent, camper, or other creative place to sleep, as there will be special Friday night and Sunday morning programming for those Steampunks, Fae, Witches, and Warlocks willing to rough it!
Cost: GA $15-$30. Overnight camping $15 - $30
Warren County - Hot Air Balloons, Arts Crafts Festival
June 6, 7, 2026
Warren Community College, Washington, NJ
Two days of colorful balloon launches, artisan vendors, live entertainment, food trucks, and family activities. Visitors can enjoy evening mass balloon ascensions, tethered balloon rides, drone demonstrations, a car and truck show, combat robot competitions, kids’ activities, and a bustling craft marketplace—all set against the scenic backdrop of the college campus.
Cost:
$12 Adult | $5 Ages 5-12 (4 and under free) | $6 Parking Family Pack $50 - up to 5 people per car, parking included
West Orange Street Fair
June 6, 2026
Main Street, West Orange, NJ
This fair packs a lot into one afternoon. More than 150 crafters, food trucks, live music, street activity, a classic car show, a beer and wine garden, kids activities, and even a rock-climbing wall give it that busy early-summer feel. Free entry to Thomas Edison National Historical Park adds another layer, with self-guided tours, talks, and demos.
Cost: Free
Elizabeth Portugal Day Parade
Sunday, June 7, 2026: 2:00 pm
Elizabeth, NJ
This annual parade brings together folkloric dance groups, marching bands, community organizations, and beautifully decorated floats that highlight Portugal's regions and traditions. Families gather early along the route to enjoy traditional costumes, lively drumming, and the warm, festive atmosphere that has made this parade a beloved Elizabeth tradition.
Kicking off at Union Square on Elizabeth Avenue and concluding at the Portuguese Instructive Social Club (PISC), 409 Route 1&9 South for another Arraial (Outdoor Feast)
Cost: Free to attend
Spring Shedfest Raritan Headwaters Music Festival
Sunday,
June 7, 2026
Fairview Farm Wildlife Preserve, 2121 Larger Cross Road, Far Hills, NJ
Bring your family and friends and enjoy a fun afternoon listening to great local bands, eating delicious food, and enjoying the outdoors at the beautiful wildlife preserve. Shedfest is a fundraiser for Raritan Headwaters
Cost:
Online $35. At the Door $50. Kids 12 and under FREE
Indoor Events in New Jersey This Weekend
Step inside for some of the best things to do in NJ, including live music and thrilling indoor attractions at New Jersey’s top venues.
Gary Clark Jr.
June 8, 2026
Count Basie Center for the Arts, 99 Monmouth Street, Red Bank, NJ
Clark's domestic tours became instant sell-outs and his international profile found him topping bills at legendary festivals around the world and venues including the Hollywood Bowl, along with multiple appearances in stadiums supporting and sharing the stage with The Rolling Stones.
Most recently, Clark won three more Grammy Awards,Clark achieved global impact following his first Grammy Award® in 2014, winning Best Traditional R&B Performance for the track "Please Come Home" from his Warner Records debut album Blak And Blu, and seemingly never left the road.
Cost: $51 to $148
New Jersey International Film Festival
May 29- June 7, 2026
Voorhees Hall #105,
Rutgers University,
71 Hamilton Street,
New Brunswick, NJ
The New Jersey International Film Festival bring ten days of innovative cinema to the heart of New Brunswick. The festival features a vibrant hub for filmmakers, students, and film lovers alike. Attendees can expect a dynamic mix of premieres, experimental works, documentaries, and global storytelling, all curated to celebrate bold artistic voices.
Deadline: Super Late February 26, 2026
Cost:
General Admission $15 Per Program| Festival All Access Pass $120| In-Person Only Student $10 Per Program.
West Side Story
Now until June 28, 2026
Paper Mill Playhouse,
22 Brookside Drive, Millburn, NJ
West Side Story reimagines Romeo and Juliet in 1950s New York, where young lovers Tony and Maria dare to dream of a future together as rival gangs the Jets and the Sharks clash for control of the streets.
Cost: $100-$190
Family Events in New Jersey This Weekend
Make fresh memories with these easygoing, family-friendly events. Extend the fun by visiting regional coastal destinations, where families can catch community festivities alongside theater shows.
Blippi: Be Like Blippi Tour
June 6, 2026
Mayo Performing Arts Center,
100 South Street, Morristown, NJ
Join Blippi and Meekah live on stage in a high-energy live show packed with music, laughter, and surprises, featuring fan-favorites like "The Excavator Song," "Monster Truck," "Dino Dance," and "Curious Like Me." This brand-new interactive adventure invites families to put on your orange glasses and unlock the spark of curiosity inside us all—showing that everyone can Be Like Blippi!
Cost: $47-$67
Animal Crossing Aquarium Tour
Now until June 21, 2026
1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ
This event brings the charm of the beloved game to life, inviting visitors to explore colorful aquatic displays inspired by fan favorite characters and creatures. This experience transforms American Dream Wayd into a whimsical underwater world, blending real marine life with playful themed décor for a family friendly outing that feels both nostalgic and new.
Food and Drink Events in New Jersey This Weekend
East Hanover PBA Food Truck Festival and Fireworks
Saturday, June 6, 2026; 2-9pm
Lurker Park,
631 Ridgedale Ave,
East Hanover, NJ
This event will feature
20 Food Trucks, Live Music, beer and wine and Fireworks at dusk.
Cost: $5 to enter. After 5pm $10 to enter. kids 5 and under free
Lions, Tigers and Beers
Saturday, Sunday, June 6, 7, 2026 (Saturday: 4PM - 8PM Sunday: 12PM - 4PM)
Popcorn Park,
1 Humane Way,
Forked River, NJ
This age 21+ event features beer with animals. Expect to have some pilsner with the peacocks, a lager with the lions, or a belgian with the bears
Cost: GA $55, VIP $75, Designate driver $20
North Caldwell Food Truck Food Truck & Music Festival
June 6, 2026; 11am to 7pm
Belleville Municipal Stadium, 100 Passaic Ave, Belleville, NJ
This family event features 16 gourmet food trucks, live music, vendors, beer, margarita & sangria garden, kid activities & so much more!
Cost: Free.
Uncork Summer
June 6, 7, 2026: 12:00pm - 5:00pm
Red Mill Museum Village, Clinton, NJ
This event features a festive, outdoor wine celebration held at the historic Red Mill Museum Village. It brings together New Jersey wineries, gourmet food trucks, artisan vendors, and live music for a relaxed, scenic weekend along the South Branch of the Raritan River.
Cost:
$25 advance, $30 day of event
Cape May Restaurant Week (Spring)
Now until Monday, June 7, 2026
Features eight days of fixed price dining at many of Cape May's top restaurants. Diners can enjoy a three course meal—typically an appetizer, entrée, and dessert—for one set cost, making it an inviting way to sample new spots or revisit favorites.
Cost:
An affordable price, set by prticipating restaurants
JC’s Annual Hasbrouck Heights Spring Fling Street Fair & Food Truck Fest
June 7, 2026: 10 am – 5 pm
216 Boulevard, Hasbrouck Heights, NJ
The food truck fest features area merchants, and 100+ quality exhibitors, a special crafter’s section, lots of great food trucks and booths, a kids entertainment area, live music.The free concerts highlight popular cover bands at the main stage on Raymond St. There is a 2nd music area on Hamilton Ave. which showcases all local talent including karate schools, dance schools, and music schools on the local stage.
Cost: Free Admission
Montclair Art Museum Food Truck Fest & Cocktail Crawl
June 7, 2026: 12 pm - 5 pm
Montclair Art Museum,
3 South Mountain Avenue,
Montclair, NJ
The Montclair Art Museum will be opening their grounds for a festive open-air celebration of local food, creative cocktails, and culture. Enjoy a curated selection of 15+ food trucks offering global cuisines, from gourmet tacos and stacked sandwiches to decadent desserts.
Proceeds from the event benefit MAM's Annual Fund
Cost: Advance purchase $5 per person or $20 for families (up to 5 attendees). Day-of purchase $10 per person or $25 per family. Children under 5 attend for free.
Paramus Summer Food Truck Festival
June 7, 2026: 11am
Paramus Park Mall,
Paramus Park, NJ
This fun filled family day features 20+ Gourmet Food Trucks, pony rides, petting zoo, inflatables, knockerball, bungee trampoline, rock wall, face painting, sand art, vendors & a beer, sangria & margarita garden, music & more!.
Bring your appetite, lawn chairs, pups, friends, family, and blankets.
Cost: $5. Kids under 5 Free
Top Fun, Educational & Adventurous Things To Do in New Jersey This Weekend
Ready for NJ events this weekend?
New Jersey is packed with fresh options for couples, families, kids, solo plans, and anyone chasing a little adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions About
the Best Weekend Events, Festivals, and Things to Do in New Jersey
When is the best time to find weekend events in New Jersey?
Spring through fall usually brings the widest mix of outdoor festivals, food events, shore activities, street fairs, and family outings. Summer is the busiest, especially near the coast, while fall often feels easier to manage because the weather stays pleasant and crowds can thin out a bit. Winter still has things to do, but more plans shift indoors, especially for families and food-focused weekends.
What kinds of weekend activities are popular in New Jersey?
New Jersey weekends often center on food, outdoor fun, live entertainment, family attractions, and seasonal festivals. You can usually find a mix of downtown events, park-based activities, waterfront outings, farm visits, and kid-friendly attractions, depending on the region. Because the state is compact, it's also easy to pair two plans in one day, such as a morning hike and an evening food or arts event.
Which part of New Jersey is best for a weekend trip?
That depends on the kind of weekend you want. The shore works well for beach time, boardwalk energy, and warm-weather events, while North Jersey often suits visitors who want quick access from New York City, mountain views, and busy town centers. Central and South Jersey can be great for farm markets, open space, family attractions, and a slower pace, so the best choice comes down to whether you want action, scenery, or room to spread out.
How can visitors plan a smooth weekend around New Jersey events and festivals?
Start by checking the weather, drive times, and parking details before you leave, because weekend traffic can shift fast, especially near beach towns and popular downtowns. If you're hoping to do more than one activity, keep your plans close together by region so you spend less time in the car. It also helps to book tickets early when an event uses timed entry, and pack for changing conditions, since a cool morning can turn into a hot afternoon.
Are New Jersey weekend events good for families with kids?
Many of them are, especially during spring, summer, and fall when towns and parks host family-focused programming. Parents usually have the easiest time with events that offer open space, simple parking, food options, and nearby restrooms, so it's worth checking those basics before heading out. For younger kids, earlier time slots tend to be the least stressful, while older kids often enjoy weekends that mix outdoor activity with food, rides, or hands-on experiences.
What's the best way to avoid crowds at popular New Jersey weekend spots?
Go early, arrive before peak lunch hours, and choose one main destination instead of bouncing between several busy areas. Saturdays usually feel more packed than Sundays in many event-heavy spots, especially in warm weather. If you're flexible, smaller downtowns and inland areas often give you a more relaxed day while still offering plenty to do.
Is New Jersey a good choice for a last-minute weekend trip?
It often is, because the state packs beaches, small towns, parks, food destinations, and family attractions into a short distance. That means you can build a full weekend without long travel days, especially if you're coming from nearby cities or neighboring states. Still, last-minute trips go better when you check parking, reservations, and traffic first, because the most popular areas fill up fast.
