Travel Itinerary
As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, Essex County gears up for an exciting lineup of fall festivals in 2025.
These seasonal celebrations offer everything from pumpkin picking to craft beer tasting, creating perfect opportunities for family fun and community connection.
Mark your calendars now for these can’t-miss autumn events that showcase the best of Essex County’s fall charm!
1. 20th Annual Fall Family Festival
When: Sunday, September 21, 2025, from 11 AM to 3 PM
Where: Essex County Environmental Center, 621 Eagle Rock Avenue, Roseland, NJ.
Ever wondered what two decades of festival perfection looks like? This milestone celebration promises to be the crown jewel of Essex County’s autumn scene.
Local artisans will showcase handcrafted treasures while food vendors serve up seasonal delights that’ll make your taste buds dance.
2. Fall Fest at the Montclair History Center & Montclair Community Farms
When: Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 11 AM to 4 PM.
Where: Montclair History Center & Montclair Community Farms, 110 Orange Road, Montclair, NJ.
Stepping onto the grounds of this historic venue feels like traveling back in time!
The Montclair History Center partners with Montclair Community Farms for a celebration that honors agricultural traditions.
Visitors can participate in apple pressing demonstrations, heritage cooking classes, and guided tours of the historic buildings decorated in period-appropriate autumn décor.
3. Nutley Fall Festival in the Park
When: Sunday, September 28, 2025, from 11 AM to 4 PM.
Where: Memorial Park I (“The Mud Hole”) at the corner of Vreeland Avenue and Passaic Avenue, Nutley, NJ.
Under the canopy of amber-hued trees, Nutley’s beloved park transforms into a festival wonderland that captivates visitors of all ages.
Food trucks line the winding paths offering everything from apple cider donuts to gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches.
The main stage hosts continuous live music featuring local bands, while the craft beer garden showcases brews from Essex County’s finest microbreweries.
4. Bloomfield Center Harvest Festival
When: Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, rain or shine
Where: Washington Street & Glenwood Avenue, Bloomfield (Bloomfield Center)
Local restaurants set up outdoor dining areas where you can sample seasonal specialties while watching street performers entertain crowds.
The farmers’ market section features produce from nearby farms, alongside artisanal breads, jams, and honey products.
As dusk falls, the festival lights up with a magical lantern parade led by local schoolchildren.
5. Annual Montclair Brewery Oktoberfest
When: Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Where: Montclair Brewery, 101 Walnut Street, Montclair, NJ
Raise your steins to the sky at this beloved brewery’s annual celebration!
Montclair Brewery’s expansive outdoor beer garden becomes the epicenter of Essex County’s craft beer scene.
German-inspired food pairings complement their special release Oktoberfest lagers and pumpkin ales.
The festival includes brewing demonstrations, beer history talks, and friendly competitions like stein-holding contests.