Looking for fun, free or low-cost family events in and around New Jersey this November 2025? From fall hikes to creative workshops and holiday celebrations, the Garden State is filled with family-friendly activities for all ages. Whether you’re exploring local nature centers, visiting historic downtowns, or joining a seasonal craft fair, there’s something happening every weekend. Get ready to make the most of November with these exciting free or affordable events!

Family Sundays at Tulpehaking Nature Center
Every Sunday from 1–3pm
Gather the family and enjoy a different nature-themed activity each week at the Tulpehaking Nature Center in Hamilton. From nature bingo and animal feedings to creative upcycling crafts and exploration stations, each session offers hands-on fun and outdoor discovery. No registration required—just come ready to explore! Tulpehaking Nature Center, Hamilton, NJ

Exit Zero Jazz Festival
November 7–9th| Time: Varies | Cost: Varies
Get ready for a weekend filled with rhythm, soul, and seaside vibes at the Exit Zero Jazz Festival! This three-day celebration transforms Cape May into a jazz lover’s paradise, featuring world-class performances by international touring artists. Enjoy four to five live shows each day, beginning at noon, and soak up the sounds of smooth jazz across local bars and restaurants throughout the city. Don’t miss the lively New Orleans–style second line parades, adding a festive flair to this unforgettable weekend of music and community. Cape May Convention Hall, 714 Beach Avenue, Cape May, NJ

Touch-a-Truck at Deer Path Park
November 8th | 11:00am–2:00pm
Bring the family for a day of big trucks and even bigger fun at the Touch-a-Truck event in Deer Path Park! This annual favorite has been called “a parade that stands still” — featuring more than 25 vehicles, including dump trucks, fire trucks, ambulances, police cars, military Jeeps, and more, all parked for kids to explore up close. Deer Path Park, Hunterdon County

Battle Chefs Teen Class at Mahwah Library
November 12th
Registration Required | Grades 4–12. Put your culinary creativity to the test at the Battle Chefs Teen Class at the Mahwah Library! Young chefs in grades 4–12 can compete in a fun, hands-on cooking challenge that’s all about teamwork, imagination, and flavor. Registration opens October 15, 2025, at 3:30pm. Mahwah Library cardholders receive priority registration, so be sure to sign up early to reserve your spot! Mahwah Public Library, Mahwah, NJ

Baby Walk
November 14th | 9:30–10:30am
Get outdoors with your little one and enjoy a relaxing stroll along the Columbia Trail in High Bridge, NJ. Learn a bit about nature, meet other parents and caregivers, and enjoy fresh air and good company. Columbia Trail, High Bridge, NJ

Thanks4Giving – Turkey Dash & Splash
November 15th | 9:30am–2:00pm
Get ready to celebrate gratitude and fitness at Thanks4Giving – Turkey Dash & Splash! Start the day with the Turkey Dash 5K, a scenic run along the boardwalk through Asbury Park, Ocean Grove, and Bradley Beach. This festive event is perfect for runners, walkers, and families looking to kick off the holiday season with fun, community, and a healthy dose of Thanksgiving spirit. Boardwalks of Asbury Park, Ocean Grove, and Bradley Beach, NJ

NHS Holiday Market & Food Truck Event
November 15th | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Kick off the holiday season at Nottingham High School’s Holiday Market & Food Truck Event! Enjoy a festive day of shopping with local vendors, handmade crafts, and unique gifts, plus delicious bites from food trucks and photos with Santa. A perfect day of fun, food, and holiday cheer for the whole family! Nottingham High School, Hamilton Township, NJ

Marsh Sky Watch
November 16th | 6:00–8:00 PM
Join the marsh astronomers for a guided tour of the night sky! Discover constellations, planets, and celestial wonders above the marsh in this family-friendly stargazing event. Hamilton Township, NJ

Share The Warmth-Santa Arrival Event
November 22nd | 10:30am–1:00pm
Kick off the holiday season at MarketFair Princeton with a gingerbread-themed celebration to welcome Santa! Donate a coat and enjoy a festive morning featuring Mrs. Claus, The Grinch, and the Ocean City Stompers Brass Band leading the parade. Plus, enjoy face painting, crafts, music, and a bounce house — fun for the whole family! MarketFair Princeton, NJ

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
November 27th | 8:30am–12:00pm
A New York City holiday tradition, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade returns to the streets of Manhattan for another year of festive floats, giant balloons, and spectacular performances. The 2.5-mile route runs from the Upper West Side to Herald Square, lasting about three hours from start to finish. No tickets are needed — just bring your holiday spirit, find a good viewing spot along the route, and enjoy one of the nation. New York City

Holiday Light Show
November 27th – January 6, 2026 | 5:30–8:30pm (Nightly)
Experience the magic of the season at Historic Smithville Village’s Holiday Light Show, where over 100 Christmas trees float on Lake Meone, dancing in perfect harmony with festive music. This dazzling display transforms the village into a winter wonderland, offering a picture-perfect holiday outing for the whole family. Historic Smithville Village, Galloway, NJ

A Wicked Black Friday
November 28th-12:00–2:00pm
Make your Black Friday magical at MarketFair Princeton! Donate a coat and meet The Great Oz and Elphaba, enjoy sand art, hot cocoa, and enter to win festive gift baskets. It’s a wickedly fun way to shop, sip, and celebrate the season! MarketFair Princeton, NJ

Holiday Hayrides at Howell Living History Farm
Saturday, November 29th | 10:00am–4:00pm
Celebrate the season at Howell Living History Farm with a day of festive fun and giving! Bring a non-perishable food item for the donation wagon and earn a free hayride through the beautiful farm. Donations of canned goods, boxed food, and new toys for Toys for Tots will also be collected at the visitor center. Enjoy a meaningful day of community, generosity, and old-fashioned holiday cheer! Howell Living History Farm, Lambertville, NJ

Christmas at the Hangar
Saturday, November 29th | 10:00am–4:00pm
Celebrate the holiday season at the Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum! This festive family event transforms the WWII-era hangar into a winter wonderland featuring live music, artisan vendors, free face painting, hot cocoa, cookies, and a special visit from Santa. Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum, Cape May Airport, NJ

Jingle Dash – Elf on the Run
November 29th| 9:00 AM | Free to Watch / Registration Required to Run
Kick off the holiday season in Downtown Plainfield with the Jingle Dash – Elf on the Run! This festive 5K launches the Holiday Festival and celebrates Small Business Saturday with live music, family fun, and shopping from over 50 local vendors. Run or cheer along as participants race through Plainfield’s brightly decorated streets in a joyful celebration of community and holiday spirit. Downtown Plainfield, NJ

As the temperatures drop and the holidays draw near, November is the perfect time to enjoy all that New Jersey has to offer. From cozy community gatherings to outdoor adventures and festive markets, these local events bring families together to celebrate the season. Bundle up, head out, and make lasting memories across the Garden State this fall!

Read more at NJ Kids