INSIDE: FALL CLASSES | ATTRACTIONS | ENRICHMENT | RSVP CAMP FAIRS 2027
OCT/NOV 2026
FREE
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October / November 2026
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cinderella The State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine Sun, Jan 17 @ 3PM The gang’s all here: Prince Charming, the evil stepsisters, the fairy godmother and the glass slipper! Bring the family.
bluey’s big play
the nutcracker
the state ballet theatre of ukraine
dec 13
Sat, Feb 6 @ 11AM, 2PM & 6PM Sun, Feb 7 @ 11AM & 2PM The TV show comes to life with puppets, music and “jump-out-of-your-seat excitement” (Guardian). Bring the whole family.
for the parents
neil degrasse tyson Hope for Civilization Fri, Dec 4 @ 7:30PM Why are humans the way we are? Take a scientific view on big topics like war, politics, religion, race and gender.
cirque dreams holidaze Sat, Dec 26 @ 4 & 8PM The perfect day-afterChristmas outing for the family! This breathtaking holiday spectacular is reimagined for 2026.
family series
@NJPAC • njpac.org 1.888.MY.NJPAC One Center Street, Newark, NJ
Lucy Darling
Little Big Town Oct 22 Lucy Darling Simply Darling Nov 8 Gregory Porter with special guest Madeleine Peyroux Nov 13 Dru Hill & Mýa Dec 11
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EXTRAORDINARY MUSIC COMING IN 2027
Family Concert Discover Rachmaninoff Jan 23 NJPAC in Newark
Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl in Concert Feb 26–28 Red Bank | Newark | New Brunswick
What is a rhapsody, and who was Paganini? Unlock the mystery of the musical puzzle in this roller coaster ride for piano and orchestra.
Presentation licensed by Disney Concerts. © All rights reserved. Rated PG-13
Projections and slides for this concert are produced by Concert Theatre Works.
The February 28 concert is presented in collaboration with State Theatre New Jersey.
Family Concert Discover Tchaikovsky May 15 NJPAC in Newark
Star Wars: A New Hope in Concert May 20–23 Morristown | Red Bank | Newark | New Brunswick
Learn about the structure of Tchaikovsky’s Fourth Symphony and what to listen for, from string plucking to folk songs, and a wide range of emotions expressed by different instruments.
Presentation Licensed by Disney Concerts in association with Warner/Chappell Music. © & ™ Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. The May 23 concert is presented in collaboration with State Theatre New Jersey.
Projections and slides for this concert are produced by Concert Theatre Works.
NEW JERSEY SYMPHONY YOUTH ORCHESTRA
To find out more, visit
njsymphony.org/yo.
Get tickets today! | njsymphony.org | 1.800.ALLEGRO (255.3476) Go to njsymphony.org for latest concert information, programs subject to change.
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October / November 2026
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Discover What's Within: Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey Invites Families to Join This Fall As families prepare for a new school year, Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey (GSHNJ) is inviting young people in grades K–12 to discover new adventures, build lifelong friendships, and grow their confidence by joining Girl Scouts. Serving more than 13,000 youth and 8,700 adult volunteers across Essex, Hudson, Hunterdon, Somerset, Union, southern Warren, and parts of Middlesex counties, GSHNJ offers yearround opportunities that help young people explore their interests, develop leadership skills, and make a difference in their communities. From camping and outdoor adventures to STEM, entrepreneurship, the arts, travel, and community service, Girl Scouts provides experiences that encourage members to try new things,
embrace challenges, and discover what’s possible. Whether earning badges, leading service projects, or exploring future careers, every experience is designed to help young people build skills that last a lifetime in a supportive and welcoming environment. The council is also seeking adult volunteers to serve as troop leaders and mentors. No previous Girl Scout experience is required, just a willingness to inspire the next generation. Volunteers receive training, resources, and ongoing support while making a meaningful impact in the lives of local youth. Families interested in joining, renewing their membership, or volunteering are encouraged to visit www.gshnj.org to learn more about Girl Scout opportunities available in their community and discover all they can do and be with Girl Scouts.
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GOT KIDS? What To Do! OCT/NOV 2026
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Guide
SCHOOLS | PROGRAMS | ENRICHMENT | PROFESSIONAL | SENSORY FUN 2026/2027
INSIDE: FALL CLASSES | ATTRACTIONS | ENRICHMENT | RSVP CAMP FAIRS 2027
From Fall Festivals to Holiday Lights
FREE
SPECIAL NEEDS SPECIAL NEEDS
Guide
Here we go—the holiday season is upon us, and there’s so much to do! From Halloween and Thanksgiving to Hanukkah, Christmas and all the festive fun in between, this issue is packed with seasonal activities, family adventures and great programs for kids throughout New Jersey. In October, you’ll find pumpkin picking, corn mazes, fall festivals, and plenty of not-toospooky adventures. Then it’s full speed ahead into holiday traditions. Inside you’ll find dazzling light displays, holiday train rides, Christmas villages, festive markets, Santa visits and live family entertainment—including holiday performances at NJPAC and more family music from the New Jersey Symphony. There’s even more happenings waiting for you online.
Communication is the KEY to unlocking potential
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DIGITAL DEADLINE: 25th of each month
Looking for something beyond seasonal fun? We’ve got that covered, too. Make a splash year-round at Island Waterpark at Showboat, featured on our cover, or discover classes and activities that keep kids learning, moving and creating. Robot Revolution is building future engineers through robotics, Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey offers everything from outdoor adventures and STEM to leadership and community service, and Turning Pointe Dance Center begins its 33rd season of dance.
NEXT DEADLINE: November 20, 2026 December Issue advertise@njkidsonline.com 973.303.3027 5x Print, 12x Digital Editions Winter: January / February Spring: March / April Summer: May / June Summer Fun: July (Digital only) Back To School: August / September Fall: October / November Holiday: December (Digital only) NJ Kids On The Go! is published by NJ Kids Media Group, Inc. PO Box 542, Roseland, NJ 07068. We assume no responsibility for errors, changes or omissions, nor do we recommend programs, nor do we warrant the accuracy or reliatbility of any of the information contained in this book. Nothing herein contained may be reproduced in any manner without written permission of NJ Kids Media Group, Inc. Copyright 2026
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October / November 2026
Keep this guide handy as you plan your fall and holiday adventures. And while summer may seem far away, our popular NJ Camp Fairs return in January and February. RSVP now to get updates on which camps are coming. Meet camp directors, explore a variety of programs and start planning an amazing summer for your kids. See page 17 for dates and details—and RSVP early! We hope you enjoy every moment of the season. Happy Holidays & Happy Exploring!
The NJ KIDS Team
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October / November 2026
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Summit, NJ | robotrevolution.net | 908.608.8896 | info@robotrevolution.net 10 October / November 2026
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56 Yr of Da s nce
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Inquire a bo SWIM ut LESSONS!
12 October / November 2026
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IS YOUR CHILD HAPPY IN SCHOOL? Small Classes 100% Mastery Self Paced Rolling Enrollment Free Academic Assessments
201-871-8808 Licensed to use Applied Scholastics™ educational services and materials.
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Your First Class is
Come play, learn, and grow at My Gym • Perfect for ages 3 months to 10 years
Babies
3-18 MONTHS
Bonding • Sensory play • Early development
Toddlers
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Movement • Confidence • Socialization
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Gymnastics • Ninja • Agility & Strength • Confidence-building
18 MONTHS-3 YEARS
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MY GYM WESTFIELD (908) 317-0888 1100 South Avenue W mygym.com/westfield @mygymwestfield
14 October / November 2026
“I’ve been bringing my 2.5yr old to classes for almost a year and he looks forward to it every week! The teachers are so fun and energetic, and I’ve really seen a positive change in both his social and athletic skills!”
MY GYM NEW PROVIDENCE (908) 665-2122 1330 Springfield Ave. mygym.com/newprovidence @mygymnewprovidence
MY GYM GLEN ROCK (201) 444-4644 522 Broad Street mygym.com/glenrock @mygymglenrock
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FEATURED BACK COVER: TURNING POINTE DANCE CENTER
Dance has a way of building confidence that lasts a lifetime. TPDC Fall Registration Is OPEN! Owner and Artistic Director Julie Otani is entering Turning Pointe Dance Center’s (TPDC) 33rd season as a leader in dance education, continuing a long tradition of inspiring dancers through expert instruction, creativity, and a genuine passion for the art of dance. With her dedicated staff, Julie creates a warm and encouraging environment where students are supported as they explore their creativity, develop confidence, and discover a lasting love of dance.
Dancers Ages 2 through 18 TPDC welcomes dancers ages 2 through 18, from those taking their very first steps to dancers pursuing advanced training.The youngest dancers begin with Little Movers, specially designed for ages 2–3. As students grow, they can explore a wide variety of dance styles, including combination classes, ballet, jazz, tap, hip-hop, acrobatics, contemporary, modern, musical theater, and pointe. Competition Dance Team For dancers ready to take their training and performance experience to the next level, TPDC is also home to an award-winning Competition Dance Team. Entering Season 33, their competitive dancers continue a tradition of commitment, passion, teamwork, and excellence, representing the studio on stages throughout the region and beyond.
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All-Abilities Dance Program TPDC is also proud to continue its All-Abilities Dance program, designed for the neurodiverse community. This welcoming, adaptive program provides a supportive space where dancers can discover the joy of movement and music together. Classes are led by Dr. Valerie Sobol, OTD, OTR/L. TPDC offers a community where dancer can learn, grow and discover where your passion can take them. Register now for 2026/2027!
www.kidsandsmiles.com • 908.232.1231 555 Westfield Ave • Westfield, NJ
Call 973.376.2111 or go online www.turningpointedancecenter.com Locations: Springfield & Union, NJ
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Summer Camp 2027 don’t miss your best summer ever! advertise with NJ KIDS
get into the camp g uide 2027!
Email: advertise@njkidsonline.com Print Deadline: December 20, 2026 Digital Deadline: by the 30th of each month
16 October / November 2026
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Sat: JAN 23
SUMMIT, NJ @ Central Presyterian Church 70 Maple Street, Summit
Sat: JAN 30 PARAMUS, NJ @ Bergen Town Center Route 4 East & Forest Ave, Paramus
Sun: JAN 31 W. ORANGE/LIVINGSTON @ JCC Metrowest 760 Northfield Ave, W. Orange
Sun: FEB 7
MONTCLAIR, NJ @ Montclair Art Museum 3 S. Mountain Ave, Montclair
Sat: FEB 20
MORRISTOWN, NJ @ Morris Museum 6 Normandy Heights Rd, Morristown
Sun: FEB 21
RIDGEWOOD, NJ @ Ridgewood Comm Ctr 131 N Maple Ave, Ridgewood
Sat: FEB 27
EDISON, NJ @ Menlo Park Mall 55 Parsonage Rd, Edison
RSVP NOW www.njkidsonline.com/camp-fairs
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18 October / November 2026
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December Holiday Issues advertise@njkidsonline.com To advertise: email advertise@njkidsonline.com
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . GOT KIDS? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . .
THINGS TO DO
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Festivals, Attractions, Arts and Music, Food, Culture . . . . . . . . . . There’s something magical about fall in New Jersey. Crisp air, colorful foliage, and the return of community traditions make it one of the best times of year to get out and explore with your family. From lively harvest festivals and charming street fairs to art shows, live music, to lighthouses, and U-Pick farm fun, autumn offers endless opportunities to create lasting memories together. Whether you’re searching for a weekend adventure, a favorite annual tradition, or simply a reason to enjoy the beautiful fall weather, this guide is filled with family-friendly events to help you make the most of the season. So grab a sweater, gather the kids, and celebrate all the fun that Fall 2026 has to offer! Fairy Tale Forest Fall Fest 2026 Fri-Sun, Thru Oct 25th. This storyland park is full of fall foliage. Enjoy fall activities and treats, scavenger hunt, pumpkin patch, listen to ghost stories, meet Rosie witch and Mr. Pumpkin Head, and more! Tickets available at gate. 140 Oak Ridge Rd, Oak Ridge, NJ. fairytaleforest.com Cranberry Fest 2026 Sat & Sun, Oct 3rd & 4th, 11AM-5PM. Stroll along Bordentown’s downtown area during this Cranberry Festival. Featuring handmade arts & crafts from 100+ vendors, family fun zone, live music, food & drinks. Farnsworth Ave, Bordentown City, NJ, btowncranfest.com Dunellen Harvestfest Sun, Oct 11th, 11AM-4PM. FREE Admission to the Dunellen Harvestfest. Live music, crafters, pumpkin decorating, kids activities, food and more! Washington Memorial Park, Dunellen, NJ, dunellen-nj.gov 20 October / November 2026
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Great Pumpkin Festival at Heaven Hill Farm Thru - Nov 8. Largest Fall Festival in Northern New Jersey. Admission includes many activities: hayrides, corn maze, pig races, farm animals, giant straw pyramid, and more! Buy your tickets online. Don’t forget to bring home a pumpkin. 51 State Route 94, Vernon, NJ, heavenhillfarm.com Monster Mini Golf Pumpkin Decorating Contest All October long on Mondays-Fridays with the purchase of ticket, receive a round of golf, arcade card, and the chance to decorate a pumpkin for our pumpkin decorating contest! Guests coming in will get to vote on their favorite pumpkin. The winner with the most votes will be announced on Halloween and win a $50 Monster Mini Golf Gift card. Fairfield, Paramus and Edison locations. Morristown Festival Of Books Kidfest 2026 Sat, Oct 10th, 10AM-5PM. Where readers meet fabulous kids book authors. FREE day long fun filled with kids activities, games, workshops, crafts, and books galore! From Pre-K to Young Adult, check website for KidFest author lineup. Downtown Morristown NJ, morristownbooks.org/kidfest Dodge Poetry Festival - Family Fun Day with NJ PAC Sat, Oct 17th, 11AM-4PM. Celebrate poetry, music, and self-expression at the NJ PAC! Enjoy live readings from an exciting lineup of poets, DJ sets from HOT 97 host DJ Drewski, all ages activities, face painting and a special drag storytelling performance. Try your hand at writing poetry, dance to the music and explore the power of language. Free and open to all ages. Chambers Plaza, Newark. Edison Fall Family Spectacular Fair Sat, Oct 17th, 1PM-9PM. Family friendly street fair with kiddie rides, kids zone, games, crafts, food trucks, drink, shopping, live music & entertainment, and more! 1011 Amboy Ave, Edison. jcpromotions.info
Snyder’s Farm - Fall Festival Oct 2026, Weekends Only, 11AM-6PM. Celebrate Fall with U-pick pumpkins, U-pick flowers, hay rides, corn maze, big slide, hay bale activities, corn hole, photo opportunities, food, and more! Tickets at entry. 586 South Middlebush Rd, Somerset, snyders-farm.com Storybook Land Fall Into Fun Festival Thru Oct 25th. Hay bales, cornstalks, and non-scary fun take over Storybook Land! Climb aboard the Happy Hayride for a tour of park or find your way out of Elmer’s Hay-Mazin’ Maze. Decorate a pumpkin, enjoy family rides and attractions. Wander around the beautifully decorated park, filled with mums, cornstalks, and pumpkins. For even MORE fun, come for Trick-or-Treat Weekend on October 17, 18, 24, and 25th and wear a costume. 6415 E Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township, NJ. Buy tickets online at storybookland.com HALLOWEEN FESTIVITIES Boo at the Zoo Every Sat & Sun, Sept 26th - Nov 1st. Family friendly Halloween daytime event at the Bronx Zoo. Join in the adventure with Halloween Crafts, Pumpkin Garden, Boo Carnival, Costume Parade, Candy Trail, Hay Maze & Challenge Trail, Wildlife Theater, Animal Chats, and plenty of wildlife fun. Buy tickets online. 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY, bronxzoo.com Boo at the Boardwalk - JENKINSON’S POINT PLEASANT Oct 17th, 18th, 24th, 25th, 12PM-4PM. Join in some spooktacular family fun. Trick-ortreating, character appearances, Halloween activities, and more! Point Pleasant Beach, NJ, jenkinsons.com
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Halloween Spectacular at NJ State Museum Sat, Oct 31st, 10AM-2PM. FREE. Children can come dressed in costume for the annual parade on the front lawn. Trick-or-treat for candy at 11AM. Play games, make crafts, and go on a Boo hunt around the museum. 205 West State St, Trenton, NJ, nj.gov/state/ museum Howl-O-Ween at Turtle Back Zoo Sat, Oct 31st, 4PM-8PM. Come dressed in your Halloween costume. Kids will participate in trick-or-treating at the zoo. Candy stations located throughout the grounds. Enjoy stilt walkers, Halloween-themed shows, and more! Book your tickets today, $5 per person. Under 2 years old FREE. 560 Northfield Ave, West Orange, NJ. turtlebackzoo.com The Dark Tower Halloween Puppet Show at Fairy Tale Forest Sat & Sun, Oct 10th & 11th. Visit this fun family friendly theme park. Handmade marionette performers presenting a fast paced, high energy, monster cabaret of Halloween fun! Buy admission tickets at gate. 140 Oak Ridge Rd, Oak Ridge, NJ. fairytaleforest.com ZOOBOO 2026 At Bergen County Zoo Fri-Sun, Oct 16th, 17th, 18th. Zoo Boo is full of frightful fun. The zoo is decorated with Halloween themed scenes, trick-or-treat stations, enjoy shows, music, and day & night train rides. Buy tickets online. 216 Forest Ave, Paramus, NJ, friendsofbergencountyzoo.org The Haunted Hollow Magic Show at Fairy Tale Forest Sat & Sun, Oct 17th & 18th. Stop by this theme park. A Halloween themed magic and illusion show that includes a variety of interactive fun, comedy, and spooky mysteries to amaze the entire family! Buy admission tickets at gate. 140 Oak Ridge Rd, Oak Ridge, NJ. fairytaleforest.com BOO at the Zoo @ Cape May Zoo Sat, Oct 24th, 10AM-2PM. Visitors of all ages are invited to wear a costume to this fun 22 October / November 2026
family event. There will be activities for kids, crafts, candy, music, entertainment, animals presentations, and more! Cape May County Park, capemaycountynj.gov FINTASTIC PUMPKIN GLOW AT ADVENTURE AQUARIUM Thru Nov 2st. Discover glowing pumpkins in the shape of aquatic animals. Explore glowing sea creatures, underwater pumpkin carvers, and other exciting adventures. Reserve tickets online. 1 Riverside Drive, Camden, NJ, adventureaquarium.com The Great Pumpkin Train @ Delaware River Railroad Excursions Sat & Sun, Thru Nov 1st. Take a ride on The Great Pumpkin Train along the Delaware River. Every child can pick a pumpkin at the pumpkin patch. 38 Market St, Phillipsburg, NJ, 877trainride.com Skylands Stadium Jack O’Lantern Experience Thru Nov 1st. Enjoy a 45 minute walk though 6,000+ hand carved jack o’lanterns. Experience a Fall Festival with pumpkin picking, painting, music, corn maze and more! Seasonal food and drink available. Tickets must be purchased in advance. 94 Championship Place, Augusta, NJ, skylandsstadium.com Halloween Light Show at Demarest Farms Thru Nov 1st, evening. A spooktacular Halloween Light Show! Take your vehicle on a guided 30 minute tour and enjoy 32 acres of Halloween light displays. Holiday treats and farm fresh goodies available at the retail farm market. Must make reservations online. 244 Wierimus Rd, Hillsdale, NJ, halloweenlightshows.com Pumpkin Patch Train at Whippany Railroad Museum Oct 4th, 10th, 11th at 1PM, 2PM, 3PM, & 4PM. Go onboard “The Pumpkin Patch Train”! A 10-mile, 45-minute round trip ride and back. Children with valid train tickets can go to the Pumpkin Patch and pick out a free kid-sized
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pumpkin and receive a pumpkin decorating kit. Buy tickets online. 1 Railroad Plaza, Whippany, NJ, whippanyrailwaymuseum.net Night of Frights at Allaire Village Fri & Sat, Oct 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th, 23rd, 24th, 30th. Spooky encounters as you walk the Village grounds. Bump into ghosts, ghouls, and goblins. Fire jugglers, storytelling, Glow in the Dark Bubble Show, and more! Families welcome. Buy tickets in advance. 4263 Atlantic Ave, Wall Township, NJ, allairevillage.org Ghoul Spring Village at Historic Cold Spring Village Fri & Sat, Oct 16th, 17th, 23rd, 24th. Family friendly haunted walk through the village. Advance tickets required. Route 9 in Cape May, NJ, hcsv.org Lights On, Scares Off - Brookdale Haunted Theater Oct 17th & 24th. Kid friendly tour. Walk through a haunted house and see the lighting sets and props. No scares, pop-outs, or fright. Friendly actors located throughout to tell young visitors about the theater. Purchase tickets online. 765 Newman Springs Rd, Lincroft, NJ, brookdalehauntedtheater.com Rolling Railway Trick Or Treat Train @ Didonato Family Fun Center Select dates Thru Oct 25th. Little goblinfriendly Halloween outdoor train ride. Admission includes Halloween corn maze, trick-or-treats spots, toy market, photo op with local pumpkin mascot, and more! 1151 S White Horse Pike Hammonton, NJ, didonatofuncenter.com Histori Smithville’s Witches Day Out Sun, Oct 25th, 12PM-5PM. Fun family outing with your fellow witches. Wear your witch’s costume & stroll around town. Scavenger hunt, contests, parade, special activities and more! 1 North New York Rd, Smithville, NJ, historicsmithville.com
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FESTIVALS, HOLIDAY LIGHTS, TRAINS ... THIS HOLIDAY SEASON 2027 Here’s your pick of fall festivals, christmas villages, lights and train shows and more. Visit njkidsonline.com for more events. So much fun these coming months. HOLIDAY MODEL TRAIN SHOWS Holiday Train Show at The Model Railroad Club Nov - Dec, check website for details. The Holiday Train Show and open house features model trains and runs to a professional narrated script. Kids can stand up on the viewing balcony and see all the trains as they pass by. Bring the whole family! Children under 3 FREE. 295 Jefferson Ave (behind Home Depot), Union, NJ, themodelrailroadclub.org Model Train Show At New York Society Of Model Engineers Sat & Sun, Nov 28 & 29, Dec 5,6,12,13. Wonderful Train and Winter Show at the New York Society of Model Engineers. Children 12 & under FREE. 341 Hoboken Rd, Carlstadt, NJ, modelengineers.org Model Railroad Show At Garden State Model Railway Club Nov 27-29, Dec 5-6, 12-13. Open 12PM-5PM. Model railroad show featuring all types of locomotives. Kids can enjoy the Santa Claus Express train. See if you can spot Santa’s sleigh. Children 10 and under FREE with adult admission. 575 24 October / November 2026
High Mountain Rd, North Haledon, NJ, gardenstatetrainclub.org Holiday Model Train Show At Barron Arts Center Nov 30 - Dec 30. FREE admission. Visit and see a Holiday Model Train Show. Great fun of all! 582 Rahway Ave, Woodbridge, NJ, twp. woodbridge.nj.us Holiday Train Show At New York Botanical Gardens Nov 14, 2026 - Jan 10, 2027. Classic NYC train show for kids of all ages. Watch dozens of model trains traveling through 200 spectacular NYC landmarks and beautifully landscaped backgrounds. A sure delight! Buy tickets in advance. 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY, nybg.org Holiday Train Show Grand Central Terminal Usually starts in Nov. FREE show. Watch miniature trains as they travel through tracks and festive holiday displays. New York Transit Museum at the Grand Central Terminal Galley & Store. grandcentralterminal.com
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Garden Railway at Longwood Gardens Oct 2, 2026 - Jan 10, 2027. Large scale model trains make their way through a miniature multi-level world with attentive seasonal background scenery. Included with price of admission. 1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square,PA. FESTIVAL OF TREES - DISPLAYS Festival of Trees 2026 at Morven Museum Nov 18, 2026 - Jan 10, 2027. Open to the public during museum hours. Enjoy beautifully decorated holiday displays, Christmas trees, mantels, and porches. 55 Stockton St, Princeton, NJ, morven.org Light Show On The Lake in Historic Smithville Late Nov - early Jan. Over 120 Christmas Trees made from 50,000 decorated lights floating magically on Lake Meone. 615 E. Moss Mill Rd, Smithville, NJ. historicsmithville.com Festival of Trees in Somerset County Dec 4th - Dec 27th, 9AM-4:30PM. An indoor exhibit of decorated trees by various community groups and individuals. Also enjoy holiday music. Somerset County Park Commission Environmental Education Center in Bridgewater, NJ. Donation suggested $5 per person. somersetcountyparks.org Festival of Trees in Bucks County Nov 10, 2026 - Jan 3, 2027. The Pearl S. Buck farmhouse is decorated for the holidays. Showcasing beautiful trees and vignettes designed by some of Bucks County’s best artists. Pearl S. Buck House, 520 Dublin Rd, Perkasie, PA, pearlsbuck.org A Longwood Christmas at Longwood Gardens Nov 20, 2026 - Jan 10, 2027. Celebrates the holiday season! Longwood Gardens is decked out with festive trees, plants, flowers, and more! Thousands of lights grace the outdoor gardens. Enjoy festive music and model train displays. Tickets available online. 1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Sq, PA, longwoodgardens.org
HOLIDAY LIGHTS & WINTER WONDERLAND Holiday Lights At The Bronx Zoo Nov 21, 2026 - Jan 3, 2027. Holiday lights at the Bronx Zoo feature animal themed lantern trails, animated lights shows, holiday decor, animated sculptures, holiday train, performers, and more! Enjoy a magical night with the wonder of LED technology. Children’s Zoo Farmyard with donkeys, sheep, and alpacas will be open. Reserve tickets in advance. Note: Sensory Friendly Nights Dec 3rd. 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY, bronxzoo.com Christmas Fantasy With Lights At Storybook Land Nov 14th - Dec 30th. Experience the holiday magic at Storybook Land with over one million lights. Classic childhood tales come to life. Look for Santa and his friends. Rides & attractions are perfect for little kids. Buy tickets online. 6415 E Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township, NJ, storybookland.com Let It Glow A Holiday Lantern Spectacular at Bergen County Zoo Nov 2026 - Jan 2027. Walk through the zoo to see over 40 scenes of animal themed lantern displays. Enjoy a train ride! Arts & crafts on weekends. Tickets online. 216 Forest Ave, Paramus, NJ, friendsofbergencountyzoo.org Fairy Tale Forest Winter Wonderland Nov 27th - Dec 27th. Stop by this theme park and stroll through quaint fairytale cottages all decked out with lights. Meet Santa and friends. Listen to holiday music and enjoy sweet treats. 140 Oak Ridge Rd, Oak Ridge, NJ. fairytaleforest.com Skylands Stadium Christmas Light Show & Village Nov - Dec. Fun one mile Drive-Thru light show experience for the whole family. Skylands Stadium is transformed into a dazzling array of 2 million lights this Christmas. Enjoy an Outdoor Christmas Village and Winter Wonderland. Buy tickets online. 94 Champion Place, Augusta NJ, skylandsstadium.com
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Diggerland Drive-Thru Holiday Light Show Opening Nov 20th. Get in to the holiday spirit. Drive through Diggerland’s construction theme & water park to see lights, holiday displays, and tunnels. Listen to holiday music in your car. Tickets available online. 100 Pinedge Drive, West Berlin, NJ, diggerlandusa.com Holiday Lights Trolly Ride In Cape May Nov 21st - Dec 31st. Cape May is turned into a village of twinkling lights. Take a 30 minute trolley ride through the Historic District to see beautifully decorated inns and homes as guides talk about Victorian Christmas traditions. Buy tickets online. Washington Street Mall, Cape May, NJ, capemaymac.org
Winter Wonder Lights Spectacular Nov 20, 2026 - Jan 3, 2027. Celebrate Winter Wonder Lights via a drive-thru journey at the Middlesex County Fair Grounds. This spectacular show is filled with over 2 million Christmas lights. Listen to your favorite holiday music. Fun for all ages. Tickets available online. 655 Cranbury Rd, East Brunswick, NJ, winterwonderlightshows.com RIDE THE TRAINS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
Orchard of Lights at Demarest Farms Nov 21st - Dec 29th. Drive your vehicle on a guided tour through 32 acres of holiday light displays. Enjoy hot cocoa, market treats, photo-ops with Santa, and listen to Santa’s singing Reindeer. Must buy tickets online. 244 Wierimus Rd, Hillsdale, NJ, orchardoflights. com Six Flags Holiday in the Park Starts in Nov. The park transforms into a winter wonderland with seasonal music and millions of festive dazzling lights. Explore the park filled with holiday characters, Christmas decorations, Santa & Mrs. Claus, North Pole theme, and more! Tickets online. Jackson Township, NJ. sixflags.com/greatadventure Holiday Light Show on the Lake In Historic Smithville Nov - Dec. FREE holiday light show, featuring over 120 Christmas Trees and 50,000 26 October / November 2026
decorated lights floating magically on Lake Meone. Orchestrated show of lights and music played across the lake. 615 E. Moss Mill Rd, Smithville, NJ, historicsmithville.com
The Polar Express Train Ride At Whippany Railway Nov 1st - Dec 30th. Relive the magic of the classic holiday story Polar Express on a onehour train ride. Listen to a story reading, enjoy hot chocolate & short bread. Santa will meet families. Each guest will receive a silver sleigh bell gift. Buy tickets online. 1 Railroad Plaza, Whippany, NJ, whippanythepolarexpressride. com The Polar Express Train Ride at Delaware River Railroad Excursions Nov 27th - Dec 20th. Get whisked away on a magical 1.5 hour train ride. Meet Santa, and listen a timeless story. Hot chocolate and cookies served. Buy tickets online. 34 Market St, Phillipsburg, NJ, 877trainride.com Ride with Santa! in Wayne, NJ Sat, Dec 5, 2026. Check website for details. Sponsored by the Tri-State Railway Historical
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Society. This ride is 1 hour of fun aboard a NJ Transit train. Each child will meet Santa. Train times: 9AM, 11AM, 1PM, 3PM. Buy tickets starting Sept 2026. Board at the Wayne/Route 23 Transit Center, santatrain.org The Santa Express - Cape May Seashore Lines Nov - Dec, select dates. Take a fun 85 minute Santa Express train ride, meet Santa Claus and his helpers. Santa visits with each child, young and old. Buy tickets early. Departing from Richland Village or Tuckahoe in Cape May, NJ, seashorelines.org DiDonato’s Magical Holiday Express Nov 14th - Dec 23rd, select dates. Enjoy a magical train ride through Christmas lights. Meet and Greet Santa and his elves in his Workshop with a free photo-op. Enjoy a walkthrough holiday village. Sensory night on Dec 7th. Purchase tickets online. 1151 S White Horse Pike, Hammonton, NJ, didonatofuncenter.com/magical-express Santa’s North Pole Express Train At New Hope Railroad Nov 15th - Dec 30th, select dates. All Aboard a vintage diesel locomotive! Join Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Santa’s helpers for a 1 hour North Pole Express train ride through historic Bucks County on the way to the North Pole. Tickets available online. 32 West Bridge St, New Hope, PA, newhoperailroad.com Strasburg Rail Road Christmas Trains Nov - Dec, select dates. A tradition for generations. Christmas at Strasburg Rail Road in Lancaster PA features several special holiday train rides. Advanced tickets available online. 301 Gap Road, Ronks, PA, strasburgrailroad • Santa’s Paradise Express offers a magical 45 minute steam train ride. Santa Claus will be aboard to greet families. Small gift for children from the North Pole. • The Night Before Christmas Train ride recreates the excitement and anticipation of Christmas Eve. Milk and a cookie for each guest. • Santa Claus Limited is a 45 minute ride aboard decorated train cars. Children and their families will see Santa. To advertise: email advertise@njkidsonline.com
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28 October / November 2026
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Discover what’s within. What do you get when you join Girl Scouts? Adventures. Exploration. New experiences. Confidence that grows from within. At Girl Scouts, every young person can turn “What if?” into “Look what I did!” Surrounded by supportive leaders and friends, they’ll build confidence, discover new passions, and develop skills that last a lifetime.
Scan to discover all you can do and be with Girl Scouts.
Join a troop. Renew your membership. Volunteer.
www.paoutdooradventure.com
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265 Rte 46 West, Ste 105, Totowa, NJ 973.339.5966 | kidsfuntimenj@gmail.com
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30 October / November 2026
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FAIRFIELD, EDISON, PARAMUS NJ
MonsterMiniGolf.com To advertise: email advertise@njkidsonline.com
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