NJIB’s Guide to 20+ New Jersey Events July 31 – August 2, 2026
Say hello to August! New Jersey Isn’t Boring’s Guide to New Jersey Events: July 31 – August 2 is your go-to source for the best events happening across this great state! From fun festivals and food-filled weekends to family-friendly expos, live entertainment, and unique seasonal celebrations – there’s plenty to do this weekend!
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.
Bonus! See NJIB at Bell Works Fresh on Wednesday, July 29th, and the entire weekend at Highlands 31st Annual Clam Fest July 31st – August 2nd.
Additional Bonus! Looking for free events that support local farmers, bakers, and makers? Here is our Guide to 100+ NJ Summer Farmers’ Markets.
Featured Events!
Warren County Farmers’ Fair and Balloon Festival
Now – August 2
The Warren County Farmers Fair featuring the Hot Air Balloon Festival is a cherished family tradition that offers a unique blend of agricultural exhibits and modern entertainment. The event features an array of attractions, including demolition derbies, hay bale rolling in the Agricultural Olympics, and mass hot air balloon launches every evening. Visitors can enjoy tethered balloon rides, carnival rides, and various children’s activities at the Kids Corral. The fair also hosts competitions like the Belvidere FFA Alumni & Supporters Car, Truck & Tractor Show, and numerous home and garden contests. Attendees can experience live entertainment, with performances from local bands, a beer garden, and special events like the Black Cat Hell Riders Stunt Car Show. The fair also honors veterans and seniors with special admission days and activities. With traditional horse shows, 4-H and FFA exhibits, a bustling marketplace, and classic fair food, the Warren County Farmers Fair is a perfect escape to the countryside, celebrating the essence of Americana.
1350 Strykers Rd, Phillipsburg/Harmony, NJ
Cost: Adults: $10, Ages 6-12: $5, Children 5 and Under Free (includes both the Farmers’ Fair and the Balloon Festival)
Highlands 31st Annual Clam Fest
July 31 – August 2
This event features food trucks, a Beer, Wine, Sangria Garden, live entertainment daily along with other festival favorites. On Saturday, August 1st , @ 10pm there will be a Fireworks Display on Snug Harbor Beach
Bay & Waterwitch Avenues, Highlands, NJ
Cost: Free
Manasquan Fireman’s Fair
July 28 – August 1, 6 pm – 10 pm
The Manasquan Fireman’s Fair, which began in 1974, is the year’s largest fundraiser for Manasquan Volunteer Engine Company #2. The five day fair features exciting carnival rides for all ages by Skelly’s Amusements, delicious festival food and treats, beer garden, live music, carnival games & prizes, $25,000 Super 50/50 raffle, and so much more!
Mallard Park, Manasquan, NJ
Cost: Free
Wildwoods Baby Parade
July 29, 6 pm
A Wildwoods tradition since 1909! Registration at Wildwoods Convention Center. Parade steps off at 6 p.m. SHARP at the Wildwoods Convention Center and proceeds 10 blocks north on boardwalk to Cedar Avenue where we will turn left and announce the winners & present awards at the boardwalk extension across from Morey’s Piers Mariners Landing. FREE to participate!
4501 Boardwalk, Wildwood, NJ
Cost: Free
Anglesea Nights
July 30, 5 pm – 10 pm
Anglesea Nights is a dynamic evening festival series transforming the North Wildwood Entertainment District into a vibrant celebration of street food, artistry, and good times on select Thursday nights this summer from 5 pm – 10 pm (July 2, July 16, July 30 & August 13, 2026). The event features a curated selection of the region’s top food trucks and unique merchandise vendors, combined with a rotating roster of roaming street performers, including stilt walkers, puppeteers and jugglers, setting the tone for unforgettable evenings of family fun.
Olde New Jersey Avenue, North Wildwood, NJ
Cost: Free
Glassboro Summer Fest
July 30, 5 pm – 9 pm
Join the annual Summer Fest, happening every Thursday in June and July from 5:00-9:00pm in the Glassboro Town Square. Enjoy live entertainment with a variety of bands and activities, as well as food trucks and local craft beer and wine!
Glassboro Town Square, Glassboro, NJ
Cost: Free
Oaklyn Final Fridays
July 31, 4:30 pm
Celebrating a whole decade of community support, good vibes, food, and music on good ole W. Clinton Ave
W. Clinton Ave, Oaklyn, NJ< Cost: Free/em>
New Jersey State Fair – Sussex County Farm and Horse Show
July 31 – August 8
The New Jersey State Fair – Sussex County Farm and Horse Show offers a vibrant celebration of agricultural heritage and community spirit. Held at the Sussex County Fairgrounds, the event features an array of attractions, including livestock exhibits, horse shows, agricultural displays, and a variety of entertainment options. Visitors can enjoy carnival rides, games, live music, and a diverse selection of food vendors. With activities for all ages, the fair provides an engaging and fun-filled experience for families and fairgoers alike.
Sussex County Fairgrounds, 37 Plains Rd, Augusta, NJ
Cost: Adults (13-59)- $12, Child (6-12) – $4, Seniors (60+) – $8
The New Jersey Sunflower Trail
All August Long, 10 am – 5 pm
The New Jersey Sunflower Trail is now open for visitors. On select weekends, expect food trucks, a beer and wine garden, live music, axe throwing, and crafters. Enjoy hayrides, an Activity Area, and additional food options, including beer from Buttzville Brewing Company. Weekday activities include exploring the sunflower trail, taking photos at over 20 spots, picking fresh raspberries and peaches, and visiting farm animals.
438 NJ-57, Washington, NJ
Cost: Ticket prices start at $14.99 per person on weekdays, $16.99+ on weekends
yART sale
August 1, 9 am – 1 pm
Shop the Arts Council of Princeton’s yART sale for creative bargains and unique finds, all handcrafted by local artisans. This flea-market style event will be held outdoors in the ACP parking lot and around our Paul Robeson Center for the Arts in Downtown Princeton, NJ. Browse 30+ vendors while listening to catch cult-favorite radio station WPRB spinning vinyl by DJs like DJ Stitching Pink. You will find makers working in ceramics, jewelry, printmaking, painting, and more, selling seconds, misprints, discontinued designs, and one-of-a-kind items at studio clean-out prices!
102 Witherspoon St, Princeton, NJ
Cost: Free
Butterfly Festival
August 1, 9:30 am – 3 pm
Many treasured activities and events are in the offing at The Watershed Institute! The visitors will have the chance to explore the Insect Zoo, enjoy the Butterfly and Bug Parade, and participate in guided tours of the Kate Gorrie Butterfly House. A variety of offerings await them, including food trucks, live entertainment, enchanting music, kids’ games & crafts, and an array of vendors. The Nature Shop will be thoughtfully stocked with all the necessities for little butterflies or bugs. The event’s proceeds will play a crucial role in sustaining The Watershed Institute’s efforts in environmental conservation, advocacy, science, and education
Stony Brook-Millstone Watershed Association, 31 Titus Mill Road, Pennington, NJ
Price: $10 per person or $30 per carload (up to six people)
Women’s International Film Festival
August 1
Woman in Media – Newark (WIM-N) proudly announces the 17th Annual Women’s International Film Festival (WIFF), taking place July 30–31 and August 1 and 6, 2026, with virtual screenings on August 7, 2026. The festival will showcase powerful independent films from around the world that illuminate the experiences of women and explore themes of justice, identity, resilience, environmental stewardship, and social change. For seventeen years, the Women’s International Film Festival has provided a platform for emerging and established filmmakers whose work amplifies women’s voices and inspires meaningful dialogue. Through compelling storytelling, the festival brings together filmmakers, advocates, artists, students, and community members to examine issues that shape our world while celebrating the creativity and leadership of women.
Cranford Theater and Various Venues 25 North Ave., Cranford, NJ
Cost: Free
Japanese Food Festival
August 1, 11 am – 8 pm
The Japanese American Association of New Jersey (JAANJ) and JAPANFes New York are co-hosting the Japanese Food Festival at the Overpeck County Park Amphitheater Area. Admission is completely free for all attendees. This year’s event features an upgraded, 100% authentic Japanese food vendor lineup alongside traditional Japanese summer festival (Matsuri) games for children, such as Yo-Yo balloon fishing and Super Ball scooping.Entertainment is split into two parts: a high-energy Day Session and a traditional Night Session. From 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, daytime performances include Taiko drumming, national anthems, Yosakoi dance, Zumba, J-Pop live music, and relaxing DJ sets. Starting at 5:00 PM, the evening lineup transitions to Okinawan music, samurai sword fighting, a Yukata contest, Bon Odori, and Awaodori. Everyone is invited to participate in the 6:00 PM Yukata contest by wearing summer kimonos on stage.
Overpeck County Park – Amphitheater Area (Challenger Road, Ridgefield Park, NJ)
Cost: Free Entry
Olde Freehold Day
August 1, 1 pm – 5 pm
Features a ceremony honoring veterans, live music, classic fair food, games, and a dunk tank along scenic Lake Topanemus.
Lake Topanemus, 251 Pond Rd, Freehold, NJ
Cost: Free
Lunar Faire: Tarot
August 1, 5 pm – 10 pm
The Lunar Faire Night Market: Tarot Theme is an all-ages, mystical night market taking place at the Rutgers Cooperative Extension/4H Fairgrounds in Middle Township, New Jersey. Scheduled for Saturday, August 1, from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, the event features a vibrant tarot-inspired atmosphere filled with unique shopping, artisan vendors, potions, tarot readers, attractions, and diverse food options. Designed as a community-centered evening celebration, it invites guests to explore eccentric local crafts, magical performances, and interactive activities under the night sky.
Rutgers Cooperative Extension/4H Fairgrounds, Middle Township, NJ
Cost: $15 in advance, $25 at the door
Terhune Orchard’s Summer Fest
August 1 & 2, 10 am – 5 pm
The Jersey Fresh weekend event offers a wide range of activities for all ages, featuring hands-on kids’ games, craft activities, interactive bubble performances, and educational live animal shows from Eyes of the Wild. Festivalgoers can enjoy live music from local bands like ALBO and Jon Savage & the Classic Rockers, browse the newly added Craft Vendor Fair, and sample local flavors at Pam Mount’s Everything Summer Food Tent. Adults can also unwind with wine flights and refreshing wine slushes while enjoying the farm atmosphere.
Terhune Orchards, 330 Cold Soil Rd, Princeton, NJ
Cost: General Admission $16.50 In Advance ($19.50 Day Of), more options available
Latino Food Truck Festival at Laurita Winery
August 1 & 2
This family-fun-filled day of relaxation takes place on the grounds of Laurita Winery — a great place to enjoy outstanding wines with friends and family. Pair their delicious wines with the many delicious food offerings available from onsite food trucks. Wine and dine while listening to top live musical artists. Each visitor will be given a unique souvenir Laurita wine glass. Other treats include Latin DJ segments between each live show, with fantastic fireworks (Saturday evening) and access to many unique and popular food trucks.
Laurita Winery, 1985 Archertown Road, New Egypt, NJ
Cost: Tickets online in advance $15. Everyone UNDER 21 is FREE
Wildwood Weekend Boardwalk Craft Show
August 1 & 2
Stroll along the southern end of the Wildwoods Boardwalk and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Boardwalk Crafts Shows, where creativity meets the ocean breeze! These events showcase an array of talented artisans and crafters, offering everything from handcrafted jewelry and home décor to unique artwork and beach-inspired treasures. As you explore the many booths lining the southern end of the “boards”, you’ll find one-of-a-kind gifts, delicious homemade treats, and more. Whether you’re looking for the perfect souvenir or simply soaking in the sights and sounds, the Boardwalk Crafts Shows provide a delightful shopping experience with the beautiful backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean and the iconic Wildwoods sign. Saturday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. & Sunday from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
4501 Boardwalk, Wildwood, NJ
Cost: Free
Maplewood Small Wonder Marketplace
August 2, 10 am – 4 pm
Eat, drink, shop, browse, and support local small businesses and makers! Walk the streets of Maplewood Village to browse and shop local makers as well as our fabulous local merchants. Take a break from the shopping to have a nosh at one of the many delicious eateries in the Village. Handmade artisans will exhibit their work on the busy streets of Maplewood Ave., Highland Pl., and Baker St. Admission is free, family-friendly, and open to the public.
Maplewood Ave, Highland Pl, Baker St, Maplewood, NJ
Cost: Free
Crafts & Vintage Fair at Jubilee Park w/Food Trucks & Live Music Too!
August 2, 10 am – 4 pm
The Vintage Area will have vendors selling items such as antiques, collectibles, vintage, retro, and repurposed items, shabby chic décor, vintage jewelry and clothing, sports cards, collectible glass, vintage dolls, vintage China, and much more. The Arts & Crafts area will have makers selling original paintings, sculptures, printmaking, origami, photography, fiber art, and metal art. Artisan personal care soaps, lotions, scrubs, body butters, and serums. Magnets, pins, keychains, and mirrors from customer photos. Rustic wood flags. Designer jewelry & accessories and permanent jewelry. Handmade candles, high tea trays, pillows, collapsible stools, nightlight projectors, 3D printed products, friendship bracelets, scrunchies, doll shoes and dresses, and more. Come hungry and enjoy a relaxing lunch at our gourmet food trucks while enjoying the live entertainment. This event is a fundraiser for the Clifton Recreation Department.
936 Allwood Road, Clifton, NJ
Cost: Free Admission
Latin Festival: Tacos & Tequila
August 2, 11 am – 5 pm
The Latin Festival: Tacos & Tequila, sponsored by Surfside and The Asbury Park Press, will take place on Sunday, August 2. Attendees can enjoy delicious offerings from over a dozen Latin food trucks—including mozzarepas, taquitos, and empanadas—paired with homemade tequila specials. The event features live music by Xol Azul from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., along with a variety of free family fun day activities such as clowns, face painters, pony rides, and a bounce house.
Monmouth Race Track, Oceanport, NJ
Cost: General admission is just $7. Kids 12 and under are free. Free Parking.
Atlantic Highlands Food Truck and Music Fest
August 2, 12 pm – 9 pm
This lively event will feature 18 gourmet food trucks offering a wide range of delicious options, including Angry Archies, Chick Wings N Things, Empanada Mania, House of Cupcakes, Taste of Napoli, and more. A beer and sangria garden will offer selections from Lone Eagle Brewing, margaritas, daiquiris, and strawberry vodka lemonade. In addition to live music (bands TBA), attendees can enjoy vendors, face painting, and a fun-filled day by the water. Guests are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets and spend the day relaxing in the sun. The event is produced by Just Jersey Fest and Atlantic Highlands Recreation.
Atlantic Highlands Marina Lawn, 10 Simon Way, Atlantic Highlands, NJ
Cost: Free
Burlington County Restaurant Week
August 2 – 8
More than 35 restaurants will be participating all over the region, from Bordentown to Medford.
Burlington County, NJ
Cost: Varies per restaurant
