As the leaves turn vibrant and the air gets that familiar autumnal chill, the allure of fall activities offers us an irresistible array of seasonal fun. While Frenchtown, New Jersey, is a gem in its own right, the surrounding areas provide a treasure trove of fall festivities. This guide will highlight the charm of Frenchtown and introduce you to the best fall activities a short drive away. From fun things to do in October to weekend festivals in NJ, Country Classics has curated a list that promises a blend of tradition, excitement, and scenic beauty.

Frenchtown Zombie Crawl and Witches Dance

Get ready for a spine-chilling experience this fall in Frenchtown! The town is hosting its much-anticipated Zombie Crawl and Witches Dance. Participants and spectators alike can expect an eerie evening filled with the undead and enchanting witches taking over the streets. But that's not all! There's also a scavenger hunt with intriguing rules and clue sheets, adding an element of mystery and fun to the event. Need some help getting ghoulish? The pros from SFA Gallery will make you ghastly for a small fee,

Frenchtown’s River Fest 

Frenchtown loves our annual River Fest, a celebration of life along the river established in 2004. This year, the fun starts on September 3. This eco-conscious and sustainability-focused street fair unfolds along Bridge Street and Sunbeam Park, offering a delightful mix of live music, art, and scrumptious food. With over 50 local vendors, 20+ local musicians, and a variety of food stalls accompanied by a beer tent, there's something for everyone. Highlights include paper boat races with the Frenchtown Vikings and performances ranging from the rhythmic beats of Dipswitch and Radio Royalty to the mesmerizing fire dancing and drum circle in the evening. Special acts like Nick the Bag Piper & Friends and Doug Miller the Magician add a touch of magic to the festivities. 

Downbeach Seafood Festival at Ski Beach, NJ

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Ski Beach in Ventnor, New Jersey, the Downbeach Seafood Festival is a culinary delight that seafood lovers shouldn't miss. On September 9th & 10th, this festival promises a gastronomic journey with offerings from over 25 renowned restaurants. But it's not just about the food! The festival is a complete entertainment package. Attendees can enjoy live performances, ensuring there's never a dull moment. And for the little ones? The festival has a plethora of entertainment options tailored just for kids, making it a perfect family day out. As the festival's tagline suggests, attendees should arrive hungry and ready to dive into some of the tastiest seafood dishes the Jersey Shore has to offer. 

Orchard Family Fun Weekends at Terhune Orchards

Celebrate the essence of fall at Terhune Orchards with their Orchard Family Fun Weekends every Saturday and Sunday from September 16 & 17 through October 28 & 29, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The farm comes alive with a barnyard of animals, an adventure story barn, hay bale and corn mazes, and delightful pony rides. Children can indulge in pumpkin picking and painting, pedal tractors, and a dedicated play area. The hippity-hop corral, duck races, and hands-on fun in the discovery barn promise endless entertainment. Live music sets the ambiance, and the pollinator sunflower trail offers a serene escape. Don't miss the "All About Pumpkins" adventure barn, a life-sized storybook journey through the world of pumpkins.

Feeling peckish? Pam’s Food Pavilion serves up delicious country fare, from pork sandwiches to cider donuts. For wine enthusiasts, the Wine Orchard provides a chance to taste wines made from the orchard's own grapes and fruits, including the seasonal favorite, apple wine. Pick your own apples and pumpkins, and let the little ones decorate their finds at the pumpkin painting station.

Fall Flower Festival at Holland Ridge Farms

Embrace the vibrant colors of fall at the Fall Flower Festival hosted by Holland Ridge Farms. From September 15th to October 15th, immerse yourself in a sea of rainbow blooms, including sunflowers, gladiolus, calla lilies, and dazzling dahlias. The festival promises more than just flowers;  sample worldly cuisine from up to 20 food trucks, capture memories with over 25 custom-made floral photo activations, and enjoy electrifying live music performances on weekends. For the little ones, there's a hay maze, pony rides, a petting zoo, and more. 

XPoNential Music Festival 2023

Get ready for a musical extravaganza at the XPoNential Music Festival presented by Subaru. Hosted by WXPN and the Camden County Board of Commissioners, this festival is set to light up the Camden Waterfront at Wiggins Park from September 22nd to 24th. Dive into a diverse lineup that showcases both established artists and emerging talents, offering festival-goers a chance to discover new favorites. Beyond the music, attendees can expect a vibrant atmosphere and a community of music enthusiasts coming together to celebrate the power of sound.

CUT International Film Festival in Millville, New Jersey

Set to become New Jersey's premier festival for short-form films, the CUT International Film Festival is a celebration of storytelling through motion pictures. Located in the historic city of Millville, with its charming High Street featuring a beautifully restored theater, bars, restaurants, art galleries, and more, the festival provides a nostalgic backdrop for modern creativity. CUT is dedicated to showcasing short films, a format that allows a diverse group of talented creators to craft resonant and authentic stories without the need for huge budgets or massive crews. 

Edison’s Fall Family Spectacular

Join the community celebration at Edison’s Fall Family Spectacular on September 23, 2023, from 1PM-9PM along Amboy Ave. Hosted by the Township of Edison and the Edison Recreation Department, this event promises a day filled with fun for the entire family. Spanning eight blocks, attendees can enjoy kiddie rides, face painting, pro-wrestling shows, a remote control car track, and much more. Shop from a diverse range of crafters and vendors, indulge in delicious food from various food trucks, and unwind at the wine & beer garden. Two stages will feature live music, with local and regional bands performing. The special Kids Zone offers additional activities, ensuring a day of non-stop entertainment. 

Warren County Hot Air Balloon Festival

Soar to new heights at the Warren County Hot Air Balloon Festival in New Jersey! Scheduled for September 23 & 24 at the Warren Community College, with a backup date of September 30 & October 1, 2023, this festival promises an aerial spectacle like no other. Originating as a modest gathering of pilots at the Warren County Farmers' Fair in 2001, it has since evolved into a grand celebration of aviation. Beyond the mesmerizing balloon ascents, attendees can witness drone demos showcasing the college's expansive drone program. The festival's success has even given birth to new traditions, such as the "Area 57" event held earlier in the year. Organized by the Flying Festivals of Warren County non-profit, the event promotes aviation and supports local businesses, charities, and the Warren Community College's Uncrewed Systems program, which delves into drones and robotics. 

Independent Authors Book Expo (IABX)

The Independent Authors Book Expo (IABX) 2023 celebrates literacy and showcases talented authors sharing their books and writing inspirations. This event aims to inspire readers of all ages and foster the next generation of writers. Attendees can learn more about the featured authors, purchase their books, and even get them signed during the expo. 

NJ Botanical Gardens Arts & Crafts Harvestfest

Hosted by the New Jersey Botanical Gardens, this outdoor festival boasts a delightful array of arts & crafts vendors, gourmet food trucks, and live music. Families can enjoy children's games, entertainment, hay rides, and pumpkin activities, and many offerings are free for kids. The event, set against the historic backdrop of the New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands, promises a day of fun and creativity. Admission is free, with a parking fee of $5 per car. 

Norz Hill Farm & Farmers Market in Hillsborough, NJ

Nestled in Hillsborough, the expansive 1200-acre Norz Hill Farm offers a delightful blend of agriculture and family fun. The farm grows various crops, including corn, soybeans, hay, rye, pumpkins, sweet corn, and tomatoes. Beyond its agricultural pursuits, Norz Hill Farm is a haven for family activities. Visitors can indulge in pick-your-own pumpkin sessions, enjoy scenic hay rides, embark on educational farm tours, and challenge themselves in a corn maze. For those seeking a thrill, there's even a haunted trail! The farm is also home to horses, sheep, goats, llamas, and heifers. Throughout the summer and fall, the family's roadside produce market sells fresh, homegrown vegetables. 

Raritan Headwaters Lantern Walk

Step into a magical evening with the Raritan Headwaters Lantern Walk, held on November 6, 2022, from 4:00 pm to 6:30 pm. This event continues the tradition of celebrating a historic European festival that marks the end of the agricultural year and the onset of the harvest season. As festive music fills the air, participants carry their lanterns through the meadows of Fairview Farm Wildlife Preserve, illuminated by the soft glow of the moon. The enchanting walk culminates with light refreshments, allowing attendees to savor the beauty of autumn and the spirit of community. 

Bright Nights at Wagner Farm Arboretum

Experience the joy of the season at Wagner Farm Arboretum's "Bright Nights" event. Located at 197 Mountain Avenue in Warren, NJ, the Wagner Farm Arboretum is a haven of diverse trees, shrubs, flowers, and other plant life set in a picturesque natural backdrop. During "Bright Nights," the arboretum transforms into a luminous wonderland, with its formal gardens, greenhouse, handicapped accessible gardens, butterfly garden, and walking trails all illuminated in a radiant glow. The event offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while enjoying the enchanting lights. Beyond the visual spectacle, the arboretum also features leased garden spaces and various gardening activities, ensuring a holistic experience for all attendees. 

Haunted History Tours: Bernardsville

Dive into the eerie past of Bernardsville with the Haunted History Tours, sponsored by the Bernardsville Recreation Department in collaboration with Downtown Bernardsville. As the sun sets, embark on a journey through a neighborhood where haunted residents eagerly share their tales. From the town's renowned figures to its more mysterious inhabitants, these spirits make special appearances from the world beyond, recounting their stories for those daring enough to listen. These outdoor tours, suitable for all ages, offer a unique blend of history and mystery. Each tour lasts approximately 60 minutes, with groups departing every 15 minutes between 6:30 pm and 9:00 pm. 

Exploring the wonders of Frenchtown and its neighboring regions during the fall is a delightful experience. The myriad of activities, whether in Frenchtown or just a short drive away, showcases the rich tapestry of culture, nature, and community spirit in this part of New Jersey. As you immerse yourself in these recommended activities, remember that the essence of a place is also reflected in its homes and communities. If the charm of this region inspires you to envision a home close to such vibrant festivities, reach out to us. Contact us to learn more about our communities in Frenchtown, Somerset, and Bridgewater, NJ  and secure a haven to comfortably enjoy the beauty of every season.