March is the perfect time to shake off winter and start exploring new adventures. As the days get longer and the weather begins to warm, the Garden State comes alive with family-friendly events and hands-on experiences for all ages. Whether you’re looking for weekend outings, educational activities, or simple ways to enjoy the early signs of spring, there’s no shortage of things to do in and around New Jersey this March. We found some free things to do this month (or really cheap)!

Paramus Library Dr. Seuss's Birthday Celebration
Celebrate reading and Dr. Seuss’s Birthday! A special story time with Mayor Chris DiPiazza, plus crafts, raffles, and tasty treats. It’s the purr-fect way to celebrate books!
Details: Monday, March 2nd, 3:00–5:00pm, Pre-K – Grade 8, No registration required

Playtime Tot Spot and More at Totowa Public Library
Come join the library for their newly expanded program! In addition to free play, children can now listen to a story and create a craft!
Details: Tuesday, March 3rd, 11am, Ages 6 months – 3 years No registration necessary.

Dungeons & Dragons Club at Library of the Chathams
Dungeons & Dragons is a fantasy tabletop role-playing game where players create their own characters and embark on imaginary adventures. A Dungeon Master (DM) serves as the game’s storyteller. The D&D Club is a great place to socialize in person—no computers or electronics needed! If you already know how to play D&D and are looking for others to join, come to their D&D Club!
Details: For Grades 3–12. The club meets every Tuesday. No registration required.

The Chocolate Expo
Indulge in a delicious, family-friendly event featuring 60–120+ vendor booths (varies by location). Guests can indulge in chocolates and baked goods, specialty foods, cheeses and dairy products, craft beverages (including wine, spirits, cider, mead and more — selections vary by state and venue), and ready-to-eat gourmet foods. In addition to tastings and shopping, the event may include live demonstrations, interactive presentations, celebrity appearances (select events), and a fun “Kidz Zone” with face painting and balloon twisting.
Details: March 7–8. 10 AM – 6 PM. Held at the New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center.

Crossroads of the Revolution: The War of Independence in New Jersey
All adults, high school, and middle school students are welcome. Free – Public is encouraged to attend. Refreshments prior to the start of the program are provided by Delaney at the Green. Details: The program will take place on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, with refreshments starting at 6:30 PM and the presentation at 7:00 PM. The event will be held in the Akhoury Room at Florham Park Library. Registration is required by March 9, 2026 and can be completed at florhamparklib.org/events or by calling (973) 377-2694. A confirmation email will be sent to registrants.

Sunflower Lantern Festival Gala
The young dancers from Sunflower Arts Center will light up the Lantern Festival with graceful performances that blend elegant elements of traditional Chinese dance. With light steps and expressive movement, they bring festive joy and heartfelt blessings of reunion to the stage. Experience the splendor of the Lantern Festival and celebrate the beauty of Chinese culture!
Details: Join us on March 8 from 1:00–6:00 PM at The Dream Stage – Court A, Level 1 for a beautiful celebration of culture and dance.

Bergen County St. Partick's Day Parade
Head to Washington Avenue in Bergenfield for the annual Bergen County St. Patrick’s Day Parade, honoring the culture and spirit of Ireland and Irish American history with pipe bands, traditional Irish dancers, lively entertainment, and a sea of green, of course.
Details: The parade takes place on March 15, 2026 at 2:00 PM along Washington Avenue in Bergenfield.

NJ Makers Day 
Celebrate STEM Month with an exciting STEM extravaganza at the METC Education Annex! Details: Takes place March 21, 11am-3pm. This hands-on FREE event is best suited for children ages 5–11. All children must be accompanied by a guardian at all times.

Plus check out the Maker Day events at the local libraries. 

Wonder Wing Storytime  – Monmouth Museum
Storytime takes place Tuesday through Friday in March in the Wonder Wing! The Museum Team will read a story and lead a fun, hands-on craft. The Wonder Wing is specially designed for children ages 6 and under.
Details: Programs are held Tuesday through Friday in March from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM at Monmouth Museum.

Family Movie: Zootopia 2 – Tappan Free Library
Bring the whole family and enjoy a fun evening together on the big screen for a family movie night featuring Zootopia 2!
Details: The movie will be shown on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 from 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM in the Community Room (TAP) at Tappan Free Library.

Check out the exhibits at the Museums. Here's our Guide to Free Museum Days. Get a little bit of history, and explore art, culture, and theater with your family. Several kid-friendly museums are always gratis (or pay-what-you-wish), and tons more offer special free museum days. 

New Jersey boasts scenic landscapes and lush woodlands, highlighted by its blossom gardens and arboretums serving as centers for botanical research and conservation. Here are 13 Gardens and Parks for your family to explore! Perfect as the weather gets warmer. 

As you plan your month, take advantage of everything March has to offer. Get ready to reconnect, recharge, and spend meaningful time together. Be sure to check back often for updated event listings and fresh ideas — spring is just getting started, and the best is yet to come

Read more at NJ Kids