NJIB’s Guide to 25+ New Jersey Events September 5th – 7th, 2025
Well, well, well…if it isn’t the first weekend in September! New Jersey Isn’t Boring’s Guide to New Jersey Events September 5th – 7th, 2025 is your go-to source for the best events happening across the Garden State! Whether you’re searching for lively festivals, captivating performances, family-friendly fun, or seasonal activities, our guide has you covered. From local craft fairs and art exhibits to outdoor adventures and winter celebrations, there’s something everyone can enjoy. Explore new experiences, create unforgettable memories, and stay connected with the local community with New Jersey Isn’t Boring’s expertly curated event lineup.
As a reminder, NJIB has no control over the weather or whether (see what I did there) an event is canceled. Please make sure an event is still active before attending.
BONUS! See NJIB at Bell Works Fresh in Holmdel on Wednesday, September 3rd, LSC After Dark: Renaissance Faire on Thursday, September 4th, Pet Palooza Food & Music Festival + 2K Pup Strut on Saturday, September 6th, and Asbury Fresh on Sunday, September 7th.
Check out our Event Guide for more events throughout the year. To submit your event, click here.
For more New Jersey Events and Adventures, follow along on Instagram, @newjerseyisntboring, and Insta Stories! Don’t forget to tag your own NJ fun with #NJisntBoring.
Featured Event!
Pet Palooza Food & Music Festival + 2K Pup Strut
September 6, 12 pm – 6 pm. 5K at 11 am
The annual event, which brings together pet lovers from across New Jersey promises a full day of food, music, shopping, and four-legged fun. This year introduces an exciting new addition: the Pup Strut 2K Dog Walk, sponsored by Groomington Eats. Beginning at 11 AM, the relaxed walk starts and ends at the festival entrance and offers dogs and their humans a chance to stroll through town before the festivities kick off. Proceeds from Pet Palooza support the Associated Humane Societies, helping pets in need throughout the state. Whether you’re coming for the food, the music, or the chance to meet your new best friend, the 5th Annual Pet Palooza is set to be a tail-wagging good time.
Lincoln Park, Manville, NJ
Cost: General admission is $7 at the gate, with children 10 and under admitted free. For those looking to save time and money, FASTPASS pre-sale tickets are $4.85 and allow guests to skip the line.
LSC After Dark: Renaissance Faire
September 4, 6 pm – 10 pm
Hear ye, hear ye! Prithee, lend thine ear! Upon the fourth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand and five and twenty, there shall be held a most wondrous gathering— #LSCAfterDark: Renaissance Faire—where mirth and merriment shall reign supreme! Whether you be knight, wench, fairy, or noble this night will be filled with magic, feast, frolic, and SCIENCE! Say aye, don thy fairest garb, and let us away upon this noble quest.
222 Jersey City Blvd, Jersey City, NJ
Cost: $22 in advance, $25 at the door
Hoboken Italian Festival
September 4 – 7
The Hoboken Italian Festival is a four day festival of music food and fun from Thursday through Sunday. No day is greater however than Saturday, aka “Feast” day. The day the 800lb statue of the Madonna Dei Martiri or Madonna of the Martyrs is carried through the streets of Hoboken.
Sinatra Drive Promenade in Hoboken, NJ
Cost: Free
St. Demetrios Greek Festival
September 4 – 7
The Annual Greek Festival at St. Demetrios in Union, the largest and longest-running Greek festival in Union County, offers a weekend celebration of Greek culture with mouthwatering food, vibrant music, and exciting entertainment. Attendees can indulge in authentic Greek dishes, including souvlaki and gyro, enjoy delicious pastries, and partake in a variety of drinks, including beer, liquor, wine, and ouzo. The event also features live music, folk dancing, unique vendors, rides, and games.
721 Rahway Ave, Union Township, NJ
Cost: Admission is $2, and free parking is available
The Meadowlands Tattoo Arts Festival
September 5 – 7
The Meadowlands Tattoo Arts Festival returns to the Meadowlands Exposition Center in Secaucus, NJ, bringing together world-class tattoo artists, piercers, and performers for a three-day celebration of body art and entertainment. Guests can enjoy live tattooing, piercing services, sideshow acts, burlesque, contortionists, daredevil stunts, and daily tattoo contests, along with a wide variety of visual art and vendors. Each day features a full lineup of performances, including Captain & Maybelle, James Maltman, Camille Zamboni, and Alakazam the Daredevil from Down Under, culminating in awards for the best tattoos of the day and overall show. Tickets are $25 per day or $50 for a three-day pass, with free admission for children under 12, making it a vibrant and family-friendly event for tattoo enthusiasts and art lovers alike.
Meadowlands Exposition Center 355 Plaza Drive Secaucus, NJ
Cost: $25 for a 1-day pass, $50 for a 3-day pass. Children under 12 are free
Wood Street Fair
September 6, 9 am – 4 pm
Wood Street Fair is a much anticipated annual event which takes place in the midst of the Historic City of Burlington, New Jersey. Brought to you by the Colonial Burlington Foundation, this popular event draws over 25,000 visitors and is comprised of more then 175 of the areas finest artisans and crafters. Tour for free one of New Jersey’s oldest houses, the Revell House (ca. 1685), fabled site of Burlington’s hospitality to Benjamin Franklin. Feast on yummy treats such as Gingerbread, Pumpkin, Blueberry or Cranberry Breads & Gingerbread Men. Tour the Carriage House (ca. 1876) between 11:00am-4:00pm.
Wood Street, Burlington, NJ
Cost: Free
NJ Taco Festival
September 6, 10 am – 8 pm. This is a rain or shine event!
The NJ Taco Festival is a celebration you won’t want to miss! With over 40 taco trucks participating, attendees can embark on a mouthwatering journey, eating delicious tacos that cater to every palate. From traditional carne asada to innovative fusion creations, this festival has it all. Entertainment includes Live bands, Lucha Libre Wrestling, Chihuahua Pageant for Charity Eating contests & More. Don’t forget to indulge in an extensive Margaritas, Beer Bars & VIP tickets.
The Sussex County Fairgrounds, 37 Plains Road Augusta, NJ
Cost: Tickets here
Sailfest
September 6, 10 am – 10 pm
NJ’s Largest Sailing Festival! Over 125 vendors plus food trucks, live music, Sailing events, kid activities and more. This is a region-wide festival for families and everyone who loves boating, sailing, sailors, or anything nautical. 9-11 Reflection Ceremony: Sailfest NJ casts off at 12pm with a special Reflection Ceremony to honor veterans, first responders, and others lost during 9-11.
8 River Ave, Island Heights, NJ
Cost: Free
Food Trucktemberfest at Monmouth Park
September 6, 11 am – 5 pm
There is just one more chance to experience the best food trucks on the Jersey Shore! Attendees can enjoy free parking and admission, with live racing starting at 12:50 p.m. No advance tickets are needed. Over a dozen of the area’s top food trucks will be serving a variety of dishes, from lobster rolls to ice cream sundaes, beginning around 11 a.m. Live music will be featured from 12 to 4 p.m. Participating Food Trucks: Amanda’s Bananas, Angry Archie’s, Chillin Out Ice Cream, Kee O Kee Pierogies, Latin Bites, Local Harvest Pizza, The Mexiboys, Tony’s Italian Sausage, Twelve Truck, Vampire Penguin, Quarry Food Truck, Kulinary Kings, Scream Truck, Mystic Lobster, Lola’s and Wild Bills.
Monmouth Racetrack, Oceanport, NJ
Cost: Free
Ocean County Irish Festival
September 6, 11 am – 7 pm
The Annual Ocean County Irish Festival, hosted by The Order of the Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh, Ocean County Chapter, offers a fantastic day with free admission, parking, and shuttle service. Enjoy a beer garden, diverse food vendors, live Irish music, and performances by the Ocean County Emerald Society Pipes & Drum Band and Irish step dancers. The event is family and pet-friendly, featuring craft vendors, a Pot O’ Gold Playland for kids, and a super 50/50 raffle. VIP Gazebo tickets are available for those who donate $1,000 or more to local charities or promote their business. Attendees should bring their own seating to enjoy the festivities.
Manahawkin Lake Park, Manahawkin NJ
Cost: Free
Raritan Borough Food Truck and Music Festival
September 6, 11 am – 7 pm
It’s a fun filled family day & it supports a great cause! 18 Gourmet Food Trucks, Live Music, beer, margarita & sangria garden, vendors, kids activities featuring pony rides, petting zoo, face painting, sand art, inflatables, bungee trampoline, rock wall, mini golf, knockerball, 50/50 and more. Bring your friends, family, appetites, chairs & blankets. A Benefit for Relief Hose Company No 2
Washington School Park, 600 1st Ave, Raritan, NJ
Cost: $5 Admission, Kids under 5 Free
Elmwood Park’s Community Day Festival
September 6, 11 am – 5 pm
The Borough of Elmwood Park hosts its Market Street Festival, rain or shine. The street becomes a giant block party with vendors, arts and crafts, live music, food trucks, and a kids’ zone featuring free rides and activities. It’s a full day of shopping, entertainment, and community fun.
500 Mola Boulevard, Elmwood Park, NJ
Cost: Free
Boonton Brewfest
September 6, 12 pm – 5 pm, Rain or Shine
Now in its annual tradition, Boonton Brewfest brings together 30+ local craft breweries from across New Jersey, offering a wide range of brews, wine, and adult beverages and new this year, mocktails, in a festive, community-focused atmosphere. Music lovers will enjoy a lively soundtrack featuring From The Ground (Point Pleasant Beach) and Hill Street House (Boonton), along with games like cornhole, bocce ball and yard pong. Food trucks, local vendors offering food from various cuisines, an artisan market, a wine sampling tent, and branded merchandise round out the offerings. New this year, The Festival will also include wine tastings, mocktails, hard seltzers and ciders. This event is 21+
Canal Side Park (Upper Plane Street), Boonton, NJ
Cost: $70 GA, VIP $85, $20 DD
Wine on the Beach
September 6, 12 pm – 5 pm
A one-day celebration of international wines, local artisan crafters, and live music in a picturesque beach setting. Guests can sample selections from renowned wineries such as Duckhorn Vineyards, Foley Family Wines, Kobrand Wines, Caymus Vineyards, and many more, while browsing unique creations from vendors like Gracie Moo Candles, Jersey Girl Chocolate, and The Hangover Pretzel Company. The event also features a free beachside concert by 70’s Rock Parade at 3 p.m., making it the perfect way to relax, sip, shop, and soak in the coastal atmosphere.
Blaine Avenue Beach, Seaside Heights, NJ
Cost: $27.50 – $49.50
Caldwell Porchfest
September 6, 12 pm – 7 pm
The Caldwell Porch Fest is a lively community event celebrating local music and neighborhood spirit. Taking place on various porches throughout Caldwell, NJ, this family-friendly festival features performances by local musicians spanning various genres, from folk and rock to jazz and classical. Attendees can stroll through the charming streets, enjoying live music while exploring local food vendors and craft booths. The event fosters a vibrant, communal atmosphere where neighbors and visitors come together to celebrate creativity and community in a relaxed, outdoor setting. Brought to you by Project Main Street. Made possible by Rotary Club of the Caldwells and The Graphics Connection, Inc.
Caldwell, NJ
Cost: Free
Bond Street Block Party ’25
September 6, 1 pm – 10 pm
Get ready for a full day of music mayhem: the Bond Street Block Party returns for its milestone 10th anniversary. This is THE end-of-summer celebration—one massive day of live bands, street food, local vendors, and the kind of vibrant chaos that can only found at Bond Street. Enjoy a stacked, no-filler lineup featuring Ron Gallo, Sunshine Spazz, Neon Rayon, Ov Love, DRKHRT, Beauty, Desert Sharks, Rachel Ana Dobken, The Azures, and Tango Machina—plus vinyl DJ sets from Hot Wax spinning between sets. From fuzzed-out garage rock and indie psychedelia to post-punk, grunge, and Jersey-fueled alternative, this year’s party has something for every music lover. Fuel up by a stellar mix of local restaurants and drink vendors while wandering a closed-off street packed with energy, artist showcases, and the unbeatable spirit of Asbury Park. Presented by Melting Trends Entertainment, with generous support from sponsors The Willow at Long Branch, Off the Rails, Warshauer, Jeff Crespi Rocks, Asbury Park Football Club, Rebel Supply, Ebb & Flow, and more. All are welcome. Come early, stay loud, and experience Asbury Park’s most anticipated community block party.
208 Bond Street, Asbury Park, NJ
Cost: Free
WMGK Brew Blast
September 6, 1 pm – 5 pm
The MGK Brew Blast invites guests to join the 102.9 WMGK air staff for an afternoon of craft beer sampling, live music, and scenic riverfront views aboard the Battleship New Jersey. Featuring over 50 brews from favorites like Slacktide Brewing Co., New Trail Brewing Co., Yards Brewing Co., Weihenstephan Brewery, Bitburger Brewery, Cape May, MudHen, Flying Fish, New Belgium, and Double Nickel, the event also showcases live classic rock from MGK’s House Band, Bambu Weasel, on the ship’s tented deck. Tickets include a free tour of the Battleship New Jersey, available for use at a later date, with food offered for purchase throughout the event.
Battleship New Jersey, 100 Clinton St, Camden, NJ
Cost: $55, $20 DD
Wildwood Food and Music Festival
September 6, 2 pm – 8 pm
The Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce presents the Wildwoods Food and Music Street Festival featuring a full day of fantastic food options, music, shopping and more. The festival will take place in Downtown Wildwood starting at Byrne Plaza along Pacific Avenue between Oak and Schellenger Avenues in Wildwood. Enjoy live music, delicious food, craft vendors and much more. This event is FREE to attend. For more information call 609.729.4000 or visit Wildwoods.com
Downtown Wildwood, Wildwood, NJ
Cost: Free
Rose Squared Fall Chester Craft Show
September 6 & 7, 10 am – 5 pm
Rose Squared and the Historic Chester Business Association presents 225 crafters and makers in the heart of Historic Chester, NJ. This event showcases unique and inspired handcrafted works in apothecary, artisanal foods, ceramics, jewelry, wood, digital art, decorative and wearable fiber, furniture, glass, painting, 2D/3D mixed media and photography. Looking for a great way to spend the day? Chester is home to over 80 boutique shops offering customers one-of-a-kind gifts, home decor, mouthwatering confections, stunning jewelry to trendy clothing and accessories.
134 Main Street, Chester, NJ
Cost: $6
Montclair Flea: Haute Dog Market + Adoption Event
September 6 & 7, 11 am – 6 pm
A vibrant market featuring your favorite local makers, vintage curators, and tasty treats — with a special spotlight on adoptable pets from nearby shelters. Whether you’re shopping for handcrafted goods, seeking your new best furry friend, or just want to see some seriously fashionable pups strut their stuff in a Dog Fashion Show, this event has something for every animal lover. Guests are encouraged to dress their crowd friendly dogs in their best outfits and costumes for a fun fashion show.
1 Lackawanna Plaza, Montclair, NJ
Cost: Free
Bolero Block Party Craft Beer and Music Fest
September 6 & 7, 4 pm
The Bolero Block Party Craft Beer and Music Fest is a lively celebration bringing together craft beer enthusiasts and music lovers for a day of fun. Hosted by Bolero Snort Brewery, the festival features a wide variety of local brews, delicious food options, and live music performances that keep the energy high all day long. Guests can enjoy tastings from some of the best breweries in the region while soaking in the festive atmosphere filled with entertainment, community spirit, and good vibes. Headliners are the Get Up Kids on Sept 6 and Andy Frasco & the UN on September 7.
BOLERO SNORT BREWERY, 316 20th St, Carlstadt, NJ
Cost: $50
Terhune Orchard’s Fall Family Fun Festival Weekends
September 6 & 7, 10 am – 5 pm
Throughout the fall, guests can enjoy pick-your-own apples at the Van Kirk Road orchard and pumpkins perfect for jack-o’-lanterns or decorations, along with pumpkin painting for kids. The farm offers more than 30 attractions, including pony rides, pedal tractors, children’s games, corn stalk and hay bale mazes, barnyard animals, barnyard sports, a sunflower trail, and scavenger hunts. Free wagon rides run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and live music from local performers fills the air daily from 12 to 4 p.m. Delicious homemade food, from chili and pork sandwiches to apple cider donuts and pies, is available at Pam’s Food Pavilion, while the Barn Door Café serves cider slushes and hand-scooped ice cream. Adults can relax in the historic apple orchard with wine tastings or a glass of Terhune’s red, white, or fruit-based wines, all made from the farm’s own grapes and fruit. Discounted admission is available in advance, with free entry for children under three, and special reserved spaces and private tents are also offered. Terhune Orchards invites visitors to celebrate the season with its 50th Apple Day Festival on September 13 and 14, marking 50 years of farm festivals filled with family fun and traditions.
330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton, NJ
Cost: $19.95 in advance, $24.95 day of
Sparta Renaissance Festival
September 6 & 7, 10 am – 6 pm
The Sparta NJ Renaissance Faire is a vibrant event that transports visitors to the Renaissance era with its lively atmosphere and diverse offerings. Attendees can explore an array of artisan vendors, enjoy period-inspired food and beverages, and be entertained by live music, theatrical performances, and jousting tournaments. The fair features costumed performers, interactive exhibits, and activities for all ages, including games and crafts. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a day of family-friendly fun, the Sparta NJ Renaissance Faire provides a unique and immersive experience set in a beautifully recreated medieval village.
Camp Sacajawea, 844 White Lake Road, Sparta NJ
Cost: Adult $20, Child (6-12) $10, Child (under 6) – FREE
Beach Plum Festival
September 7, 9 am – 4 pm
This annual event features over 100 Arts & Craft Vendors, Children’s Games, Non Profits and of course Beach Plum Jelly! Don’t miss this fun family festival at Island Beach State Park.
Island Beach State Park, Seaside Heights, NJ
Cost: Free
Irish American Association of Northwest Jersey Annual Feis
September 7, 9 am
This traditional Irish festival celebrates Irish culture with a day filled with vibrant music, dance, and community spirit. Attendees can enjoy performances by Irish dancers and musicians, browse vendors offering Irish-themed goods, and savor a variety of food and beverages. The event features a range of family-friendly activities and showcases the rich heritage and traditions of Ireland. The Feis offers a lively and engaging experience for all ages, set against the backdrop of the fairgrounds.
Sussex County Fairgrounds. Augusta, NJ
Cost: Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 6 to 12. Children under 6 can enter for free
Wallisch Homestead Vintage & Antique Fair
September 7, 10 am – 5 pm
JC Promotions returns with a Vintage & Antique Fair at the historic Wallisch Homestead in West Milford, NJ. Featuring about 60 exhibitors with antiques, collectibles, estate jewelry, memorabilia, furniture, and more, the event also offers food trucks, live music, and on-site appraisals by a certified appraiser from 11 am – 3 pm ($10 per item). The scenic 99-acre setting makes it the perfect spot for a day of treasure hunting and community fun.
65 Lincoln Ave., West Milford, NJ
Cost: Admission is free – $5 Parking per car
Red Bank Street Fair & Craft Show
September 7, 11 am – 5 pm
Come down to the Red Bank Street Fair & Craft Show and enjoy a day of family fun with original and interesting Arts & Crafts, Artists, Crafters, Vendors, Food, Games, Family Fun, live music, DJ, performances and more!
Monmouth and Broad Street, Red Bank NJ
Cost: Free
Out in the Park Festival at Cooper River
September 7, 12 pm – 6 pm
The Out in the Park Festival at Cooper River is an inclusive, family-friendly event celebrating LGBTQ+ pride and diversity. Held at Cooper River Park, this festival features a vibrant lineup of live music, entertainment, and performances, along with various food trucks and vendors offering a range of goods and services. Attendees can enjoy a lively atmosphere with activities designed to promote community engagement and support for LGBTQ+ rights. The festival often includes craft booths, games, and informational resources, making it a festive and supportive environment for all visitors.
Cooper River Park, Cherry Hill, NJ
Cost: Free
