35+ New Jersey Winter Festivals & Events to Put on Your Calendar!
2025 is heating up (not literally) in terms of events. From yummy food events to free activities, there’s something for everyone. Check out our list of the best New Jersey Winter and Events, and get ready to have a great time as you kick off the new year with awesome experiences and fun moments.
Always check the weather and the event links before you attend in case of cancellations and rescheduling.
For more New Jersey events throughout the year, check out our Event Guide.
For more New Jersey adventures and New Jersey Events, be sure to follow along on Instagram, @newjerseyisntboring, and Insta Stories! Don’t forget to tag your own NJ fun with #NJisntBoring.
Featured Events:
Yacht Rock Weekend at Crystal Springs Resort
January 24 – 26
Escape the winter blues and set sail for the ultimate Yacht Rock Weekend Getaway at the luxurious Grand Cascades Lodge, happening January 24-26, 2025. This exclusive weekend promises a nostalgic journey through the smooth sounds of the 70s and 80s, paired with tropical cocktails, an island-inspired menu, and unforgettable entertainment.
Grand Cascades Lodge, 3 Wild Turkey Way, Hamburg, NJ
Cost: Tickets here
Dessertopia
January 25, 11 am – 7 pm
Dessert is always a good idea, so prepare for deliciousness, indulgence and fun. Enjoy a selection of the very best desserts in New Jersey. Look forward to a speciality dessert drink and adult beverage bar, retail vendors, a live DJ, and DESSERTS ranging from cupcakes, cookies, ice cream, waffles, cakes, pastries, pies, puddings, chocolate, candies, fruit, custards, tarts, gelatins, gummies, churros, macarons, doughnuts, drinks, and more!
Morristown Armory, 430 Western Ave, Morristown, NJ
Cost: $5
Jersey City Whiskey Fest Save 40% with code NJIB
February 1, 6 pm – 9:30 pm
The Jersey City Whiskey & Spirits Festival aims to warm up winter with a spectacular lineup. As the winter chill settles in, the Jersey City Whiskey & Spirits Festival is set to heat things up on Saturday, February 1, 2025, inside the iconic Harborside Atrium. The Jersey City Whiskey Fest is not just an event; it’s an opportunity for guests to gather, share moments with friends, and savor their libation of choice. This festival serves as an all-access pass to a dazzling array of emerging and renowned whiskies and spirits, from local gems to global favorites. Attendees will be treated to samples of over 100 styles throughout the evening, complemented by live entertainment, delectable food, and engaging interactive games.
Harborside Atrium, 210 Hudson St Jersey City, NJ
Cost: $15 – $70. Save 40% with code NJIB
Mac and Cheese Mayhem
February 8, 11 am – 6:30 pm
NJ’s biggest and best Mac & Cheese Festival. Can you think of a better way to spend the day than trying different variations of mac and cheese? Everyone’s favorite comfort food! This is an event that is fun for the entire family with many activities including face painting, knockerball, petting zoo, hatchet throwing & beer, sangria and margarita garden, vendors and more. Pre-purchase tickers are recommended and are available for purchase
The Morristown Armory, 430 Western Ave., Morristown, NJ
Cost: $7 in advance, $10 at the door. 3 and under free.
New Jersey Wine & Chocolate Trail Weekend
February 14 – 16
Enjoy Valentine’s Day Weekend by checking out GSWGA’s Annual Wine and Chocolate Trail Weekend! This year the trail will take place over two weekends with participating wineries throughout the state.
At Participating Wineries
Cost: Varies Per Location
January
Downtown Haddonfield’s Winterfest
January 17 – 19
Indoor sales, live ice carvings, and soup events, oh my! Winterfest returns with another slew of winter activities to cure your cabin fever. Creative ice sculptures will be spread out throughout Downtown Haddonfield, Haddonfield restaurants will be serving their best soups, and live ice carving will take place in Kings Court (Sunday). Be sure to be on the lookout for tickets to Souper Bowl Saturday, a soup-tasting event with interactive voting, with proceeds going to Cathedral Kitchen; supporting their goal of eliminating food insecurity to 2,000 people a day in Camden, NJ.
Downtown Haddonfield, NJ
Cost: Varies per event
The Garden State RV and Camping Show
January 17 – 19
The show will feature over 140,000 square feet of the latest in recreation vehicles, travel trailers, camping supplies, accessories, campgrounds and travel information exhibits. It is the ideal place for camping families and enthusiasts who are looking to purchase their first RV, looking to upgrade their present RV or for the veteran camper to explore new camping adventures.
New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center, Edison, NJ
Cost: $15
Rahway Soup Stroll
January 18 & 25, 1 pm – 4 pm
Warm up this winter with some delicious soups! On Saturdays in January from 1-4pm, individuals can bundle up and visit participating restaurants for a taste of their featured soups. The experience requires no registration, as it is a free event! To participate, one should visit the chosen restaurant, ask for a Soup Stroll Sample, and receive a free 4oz sample of the featured soup. Participants can then stroll outside to savor their soup, take a Souper Selfie at the establishment for a chance to enter the photo contest, and proceed to the next participating restaurant to repeat the enjoyable experience.
Downtown Rahway, Rahway, NJ
Cost: Free
Polar Bear Plunge for the Special Olympics at Wildwood
January 18, 10 am
Get to the beach in Wildwood to plunge into the frigid Atlantic Ocean and know that you are supporting thousands of registered Special Olympics New Jersey athletes. Have fun, get dressed up in costumes, use plunge props, and make banners and signs.
Wildwoods Convention Center – 4501 Boardwalk, Wildwood, NJ
Cost: FREE to spectate. Register online for $125
Hackettstown’s Winterfest
January 18, 10 am – 5 pm
Bundle up for a brisk stroll through the Hackettstown Business District. Take a turn around an iceless skating rink, check out live ice sculpture demonstrations, S’more making and enjoy tunes from a live DJ. Sample the tastes of the great Hackettstown Eateries and Breweries. Check out sales and special offers at the local shops and businesses. Look for the Blue Balloons to identify those who are participating. This is a great opportunity to visit a business you have never visited ~ try a new beer, sample a new food, and shop at a business you have yet to visit!
Downtown Hackettstown, NJ
Cost: Free
Jersey Shore Comic Book Show Wild-Con
January 18
This exciting event brings together Guests, Artists, Vendors, and Cosplayers on the Wildwood, NJ boardwalk. Special guest “Brimstone” and other comic book industry figures will be in attendance, along with diverse vendors offering a range of items, including Comic Books, Anime, Manga, Trading Cards, Funko Pops, Lego, Toys, Pokemon, Retro, Pop-Culture, Crafts, Action Figures, Collectibles, and more.
Wildwood Convention Center located on the Boardwalk in Wildwood, NJ
Cost: Admission is $10, Kids 12 and under are free with paying Adult
Downtown Cranford 2025 Souperhero Stroll
January 18 & 19
You and your family are invited to stroll through Downtown Cranford to view the life-size superhero balloon sculptures by Dream Factory Balloons while sampling delicious soups offered by our local restaurants. To participate in the Souperhero Stroll, please purchase your ticket for the dates and time slot offered. Please note that one ticket is needed for each soup tasting participant. Kids are encouraged to dress up in superhero costumes or wear their favorite capes. This event will take place rain, snow or shine. The event is sponsored by Downtown Cranford with proceeds benefiting CHS Class of 2025 Project Graduation. Additionally, canned soup donations for local food banks are welcome and can be brought to registration on the event day.
Downtown Cranford, NJ
Cost: $10
The Fly Fishing Show
January 24 – 26
Attendees are invited to join the Fly Fishing Show for an unforgettable experience that promises to captivate them. The event offers an opportunity to explore the latest gear, techniques, and engage with experts in the field. Beyond that, it serves as a unique chance to book a fly fishing trip of a lifetime. wasWhether individuals are seasoned anglers or curious beginners, the show caters to a diverse audience, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy.
The New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center, 97 Sunfield Ave, Edison, NJ
Cost: $0 – $45
Fire and Ice Festival
January 25, 10 am – 4 pm
Downtown Mount Holly’s annual event! The highlight of the event is the participation of over ten skilled Ice Carvers, each sculpting 600 lbs of ice, accompanied by a dozen chili chefs serving the finest in Burlington County. Thousands of spectators, including those from the Tri-State area and beyond, gather to partake in the festivities.
Downtown Mount Holly, NJ
Cost: Free
Garden State Comic Fest
January 25 & 26
Immerse yourself in the world of comics with talented artists, diverse vendors showcasing comic books, anime, and collectibles, alongside food trucks and cosplayers. Enjoy a weekend of family-friendly fun that promises to be a celebration of Comics.
The Sussex County Fair Grounds 37 Plains Rd. Augusta NJ
Cost: $10, cash only. Kids under 12 are free
Holy Trinity 17th Annual Winter Feast
January 31 – February 2
The winter feast encompasses an array of offerings, including delectable Greek cuisine, homemade Greek pastries, traditional dance performances by Greek groups, music provided by DJ JTK Entertainment, and the option for both dine-in and take-out services.
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 7004 Ridge Ave, Egg Harbor Township, NJ
Cost: Free
February
Atlantic City Wing Fest
February 1, 12 pm – 4 pm
South Jersey spots known for their amazing wings will compete for best wing bragging rights at Atlantic City Wing Fest. Sample wings from more than 20 South Jersey restaurants, the all-you-can-eat wing festival will allow you to go around to all of the wing places until you decide – by vote – which wing is your favorite.
Golden Nugget Atlantic City, Huron Avenue & Brigantine Boulevard Atlantic City, NJ
Cost: $50 – $60
Winter Fire & Ice Festival
February 1 & 2
Witness the awe-inspiring Ice Sculptures crafted by Larry Watkins and The Bikini Boys. Attendees can cozy up by the warm Fire Pits, enjoy delightful Wine Tastings courtesy of Cream Ridge Winery, and explore unique handmade creations from skilled Makers. Indulge in delectable bites from Food Trucks, peruse the offerings at the Village Shoppes, and engage with captivating Animal Exhibits. This event is pet friendly.
New Egypt Flea Market Village, 933 Monmouth Rd, Cream Ridge, NJ
Cost: $5 per person, kids 10 and under free
Highland’s Annual Beef and Brew
February 2
Proving Ground, 56 Shrewsbury Ave. Highlands, will host the 2025 Beef & Brew St. Patrick’s Day Parade Fundraiser. Tickets are $45.00 and includes buffet dinner & 2 beer tickets. There will be a gift auction and a pipe band to entertain. All proceeds to benefit the 2025 St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The 2025 Grand Marshal, Tim Hill, will be presented with his sash! Tickets available online at https://highlandsnj.wufoo.com/forms/s10c9dq90hwi96a/
56 Shrewsbury Ave., Highlands, NJ
Cost: $45
Lambertville / New Hope Winter Festival Chili Cook Off 2025
February 2
The highly anticipated winter celebration showcases a Chili Cook Off Competition involving over 10 local restaurants vying for the coveted title of Winter Festival’s 2025 CHILI COOK OFF CHAMPIONS! Participants can indulge in an unlimited supply of chili and beer during the Cook Off (*complete with a 2025 Commemorative Pint Glass). Winners stand to receive 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place Trophies, along with bragging rights for both People’s Choice and Judge’s Choice Awards.
Triumph Brewing Company of New Hope, New Hope, PA
Cost: $40 – $60
Asbury Park Valentine’s Bazaar
February 7, 3 pm – 8 pm & 8, 12 pm – 5 pm
Can’t Buy Me Love! Don’t miss the Asbury Park Valentine’s Bazaar on Friday, February 7th & Saturday, February 8th, 2025! Shop incredible local and regional vendors selling goods and gifts hand made with love. Enjoy a Friday night date night and Saturday stroll in the Grand Arcade of Convention Hall to pick up perfect Valentine’s gifts, enjoy live music, delicious food & libations, Valentine’s photo wall, fresh flower bar, kids & pet activities, workshops and more! The events are indoors, free, all ages, and pet friendly.
Grand Arcade of Convention Hall, Asbury Park, NJ
Cost: Free
The Downtown Red Bank Valentine’s Sweet Stroll
February 8, 11 am – 2 pm
Enjoy a day of sweets, specials and Valentine’s shopping from some of your favorite Red Bank businesses. Stroll around downtown to shop for all your sweet items. It’s the perfect day to shop with – or for – your Valentine!
Downtown Red Bank, NJ
Cost: Free to attend
New Jersey Boat Expo
February 13 – 16
The New Jersey Boat Sale & Expo features something for every age and interest with hundreds of boats on sale from the top dealers in the state as well as an expansive boater’s marketplace full of boating accessories and services, boating and fishing seminars, activities for the little boaters and much more. Head to the New Jersey Boat Sale & Expo to see all that is new and exciting in boating!
The New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center, 97 Sunfield Ave, Edison NJ
Cost: $13, $5 for weeknight special
Red, White & Brew Fest
February 15
If it’s one thing this country loves, it’s a come back! That’s why the Red, White & Brew Fest is coming back to the CURE Insurance Arena in Trenton! All happening Saturday, February 15th, 2025 – President’s Day weekend! Celebrate with a patriotic sampling event featuring over 50 styles from featured craft breweries, wineries, and spirits at the second annual Red, White & Brew Fest. You’ll party with good old George Washington himself and quench your thirst for freedom with samples, live music from Nine Deeez Nite, Interactive Games, Contests and more…And everyone will join in on a special birthday toast to our first president!
Cure Arena, Trenton, NJ
Cost: $58, $80 VIP
Jersey Art Book (JAB) Fair
February 21 – 23
Dense Magazine is pleased to announce the third annual Jersey Art Book Fair, with over 150 exhibitors coming to Jersey City. Alongside the fair will be two days of workshops, panels, installations, exhibitions, film showings, demos, readings, meditations, and festivities across Jersey City. In addition to the main venue, attendees can shuttle across Jersey City to visit participating galleries and cultural centers
Railroad Terminal at Liberty State Park, 1 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey City, NJ
Cost: $0-$5
Seaside Heights Polar Bear Plunge
February 22, 9 am
Each year, the Polar Bear Plunge at Seaside challenges thousands of brave jumpers from around the state. It’s a great way for everyone–individuals, teams, organizations and businesses–to get involved supporting Special Olympics New Jersey. All funds raised go towards programming and events for thousands of athletes statewide.
Blaine Ave, Seaside Heights, NJ
Cost: $125. Free to spectate
Nerd Fest
February 23, 10 am – 4 pm
The event will showcase a diverse range of items including Comic Books, Toys, Anime, Funko Pops, Art, NON-Sport Trade Cards, Lego, Star Wars, Marvel, DC, Crafts, Collectibles, and more. Attendees can look forward to engaging with cosplay groups, interactive activities for both youngsters and participants, as well as photo opportunities with photographers offering packages and green screen backgrounds for Cosplayers. A cosplay contest will also take place for both youngsters and adults, providing an opportunity to showcase impressive outfits inspired by favorite superheroes, anime, or comic book characters with a chance to win prizes.
Holiday Inn, 1 Pureland Dr, Swedesboro, NJ
Cost: $5, kids 12 and under are free
Chilly Chili Cook Off
February 23
The event will feature bagpipe bands and Daly’s Irish Dancers. Proceeds will support the 2025 St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The Chili Cook Off includes both a “Professional” Cook Off (commercial) at 4 PM and an “Amateur” Cook Off (residents) at 5 PM. Attendees can taste each chili, cast their votes, and witness the announcement of winners at 5:30 PM. Prizes await the winners in each category, alongside the People’s Choice determined by an independent panel of judges. Priced at $40.00, tickets grant access to chili samplings, two beer tickets, and two voting ballots.
Saltwater Social, 128 Bay Ave., Highlands, NJ
Cost: $40
New Jersey Home and Garden Show
February 28 – March 2
The New Jersey Home & Garden Show features a diverse range of activities and offerings. Attendees can explore the expertise of hundreds of exhibitors and home improvement professionals who are prepared to provide assistance. Additionally, there is a marketplace where visitors can engage in shopping for unique gifts, accessories, art, and home decor. For families with children, the event includes kids’ activities such as balloon animals, make-and-take crafts, and old-fashioned games, ensuring an enjoyable experience for attendees of all ages.
New Jersey Convention Center, 97 Sunfield Avenue, Edison, NJ
Cost: $10 for everyone 16 and older. Children 15 and under free.
March
Big Brew Beer Festival
March 1, 12 pm – 5 pm
The Big Brew Beer Festival is a perfect opportunity for beer aficionados to meet and hang out. With over 150 unique tastings it’s a great place to discover new beers and speak to brewery representatives.
The Morristown Armory, 430 Western Ave, Morristown, NJ
Cost: $15 – $70
Brewsology Beer Fest
March 1, 7 pm – 11 pm
The Brewsology Beer Fest is the boozy hybrid of your middle school museum field trip. Taking over the Liberty Science Center after hours, the event will feature dozens of local craft breweries and cideries and will give attendees access throughout the museum including exhibits, science demonstrations and access to brewery reps.
Liberty Science Center, Jersey City, NJ
Cost: $65 – $85
Mount Holly St. Patrick’s Parade and Irish Festival
March 1, 1 pm
The St. Patrick’s Parade is held annually on the first Saturday in March and kicks off at 1 P.M. It takes place on High Street in Mount Holly. It is a fun filled afternoon with Pipers, Irish Bands, Irish Dancers, local Irish Organizations, Mummers and much more. Immediately following the parade there will be an After Party with Irish Bands playing all day and into the early evening.
High St, Mount Holly, NJ
Cost: Free
Maple Sugar Fest at Reeves Reed Arboretum
March 2
Enjoy a brisk winter afternoon learning the steps involved in turning tree sap into delicious maple syrup. The whole family will enjoy spending the day outdoors, hiking on trails, and partaking in a Maple Sugaring Challenge! Also enjoy some hot chocolate, maple vendors, and more. It’s going to be a sweet day. This event will be held rain or shine; no refunds.
Reeves-Reed Arboretum, 165 Hobart Avenue, Summit, NJ
Cost: Maple Sugaring Fest is FREE for RRA Members and children under 3. The cost for Non-Members is $5 per person, $25 maximum per family.
Holistic Health & Healing Expo – Learn How to Heal Body, Earth and Soul!
March 2, 11 am – 5pm
Hundreds of leading-edge thinkers and practitioners in natural health, spiritual elevation, and sustainable living will be on hand demonstrating their latest products and services. Visitors to the expo can expect inspiring workshops, valuable and up-to-date information covering everything from alternative healing and sustainable living to organic, holistic coaching, homeopathy and integrative medicine. Beautiful handmade items such as lotions, candles and personal care products will also be available. Additionally, there will organic vegan desserts and food vendors, CBD vendors as well as experts in pet nutrition and behavior.
DoubleTree by Hilton Cherry Hill Philadelphia, 2349 Marlton Pike West, Cherry Hill, NJ
Cost: Free
Heart of Oneness Holistic Expo
March 7 – 9
The Heart of Oneness Holistic Expo unfolds as a 2.5-day wellness community event, fostering connections with premier Holistic Experts, Practitioners, and Businesses across the Northeast. Featuring over 200 unique metaphysical practitioners, empowering thought leaders, and organizations dedicated to wellness, the event promises a weekend of Healing, Upliftment, and Transformation. Attendees can immerse themselves in a diverse range of experiences, including Crystals, Reiki, Aura Photography, Meditation, Organic Skin Care, and much more. With offerings such as Psychic Readings, Sound Healing, and Visionary Artwork, there’s something enlightening for everyone.
97 Sunfield Avenue, Edison, NJ
Cost: Free to $15
Belmar Dine & Discover Restaurant Tour
March 9, 11:30 am – 3:30 pm
A food tour of Belmar taking you through the area’s best restaurants, breweries, and desserts.
Belmar, NJ
Cost: Advance Tickets $35, Day of Tickets $40
NJ Makers Day Weekend
March 21 – 23
New Jersey Makers Day is a celebration of maker culture across the Garden State. This all-ages event connects individuals with libraries, schools, businesses, and independent maker spaces that support making, tinkering, crafting, manufacturing, and STEM-based learning. Learn more: njmakersday.org
Locations throughout NJ
Uncork Spring! A Food & Wine Experience
March 22, 1 pm – 5 pm pm
Uncork the season, when 12+ NJ wineries bring more than 150 wines to be sampled & purchased. Enjoy chef pairings to enhance any dining experience, indulge in decadent food offerings, listen to music and shop artisan crafters. Sip, Savor & (S)elebrate Spring!
46 Washington Avenue, Carteret, NJ
Cost: $25 – $50
Easter EGGspress at DiDonato’s Family Fun Center
March 22 – April 19 (Saturdays and Sundays)
Head to DiDonato’s for Easter fun! Meet with the Easter Bunny, hunt for eggs, and more. Inflatable 40’ obstacle course! Enjoy endless play, climbing, imagination-building, and fun on their custom-made, interactive train.
1151 South White Horse Pike Hammonton, NJ
Cost: $15.95 per person; advance tickets are highly encouraged.
Garden State Film Festival
March 27 – 30
The artistic philosophy of the Garden State Film Festival is rooted in the celebration of the independent film genre and the creation of a forum where local and other independent filmmakers can exhibit their work. In addition, our event provides novice and aspiring filmmakers, actors, and others interested in a career in the film business, the opportunity to meet and network with industry professionals in an atmosphere that is conducive to learning and mentoring. Past attendees include Glenn Close, Paul Sorvino, Budd Schulberg, Kurtwood Smith, James Gandolfini, Celeste Holm and Clarence Clemons.
Different Locations in Asbury Park, NJ + The Cranford Theater, Cranford, NJ
Cost: Varies per event
Atlantic City Beer Fest
March 29, 2 Sessions
The Atlantic City Beer and Music Festival presented by Visit Atlantic City is back at the Atlantic City Convention Center on Saturday, March 29th, with two epic sessions of music, craft beer, and wild activities you won’t want to miss. It’s easy to see why this festival is one of the most popular beer events in the country. The event is dedicated to craft beer and the opportunity to highlight the best in craft brewing. Beer enthusiasts will have the chance to compare classics side by side, sample new releases, and ask questions to brewmasters and brewery team members from over 100+ Breweries. Live music from Senses Fail and Me First and the Gimme Gimmies.
Atlantic City Convention Center, 1 Convention Blvd , Atlantic City, NJ
Cost: $85
The Chocolate Expo
March 29 & 30
The Chocolate Expo has by far become the northeast’s largest chocolate-themed event. The Chocolate Expo offers tastings & sales of chocolates, baked goods, specialty foods, gelato, cheeses and much more from local and regional vendors. Depending on location, tastings and sales of wines, beers and other “adult beverages” may also be offered. Each Chocolate Expo event combines chocolate and food with a dash of fun such as unique exhibits, performances, demonstrations and/or celebrity appearances.
97 Sunfield Ave, Edison, NJ
New Jersey Lottery Rock Paper Scissors Throwdown
March 29 & 30
New Jersey Lottery is proud to present the first-ever competition of its kind in New Jersey – The New Jersey Lottery Rock Paper Scissors Throwdown. The tournament is open to adults ages 18+ and take place over two (2) days (you must be able to attend both days in order to advance through the tournament). It will include 384 competitors and a total of 383 matches.
American Dream Mall, Rutherford, NJ
