Top 8 Things To Do in New Jersey in 2025

Now that 2025 is officially here, many people in New Jersey have begun making big plans for the New Year. 

Fortunately for New Jersey residents, there are plenty of places to visit and several activities to participate in all year. From musical concerts to film festivals and public fairs, New Jersey has no shortage of things to do. For those living in the Garden State or planning a trip, these are the top places and events to explore in 2025.

8. The Chocolate Expo

America’s top celebration of chocolate will be coming to the Garden State in 2025. From March 29-30, the Chocolate Expo will set up shop in Edison, allowing guests to taste and purchase baked goods, unique foods, cheeses and other dairy products, premium drinks, and chocolate. At this point, there are few details regarding the activities at New Jersey’s Expo. However, previous events have featured plenty of entertainment for kids and adults, including face painting, hands-on presentations, and balloon art shows.

7. Bugs Bunny At the Symphony

Relive the hilarity of Bugs Bunny’s unforgettable opera antics and more with a night of musical mischief brought to life by Looney Tunes. From February 14-16, Warner Bros. Discovery and the New Jersey Symphony shall present their 30th-anniversary concert, featuring big-screen appearances from cartoon icons like Bugs Bunny, Elmer Fudd, Wile E. Coyote, and Road Runner.

6. New Jersey Horror Con and Film Festival

The horror genre has a large and loyal fanbase, and the Garden State will provide a fun haven for this community. New Jersey’s annual celebration of all things horror will take place in Edison on March 1-2 and Atlantic City on May 17-18. The convention will also feature guest appearances from multiple horror movie actors, including cast reunions for The Blair Witch Project and Halloweentown. The convention will also host screenings of the top horror movies submitted to their film festival, allowing fans to break into the cinema industry and share their films.

5. The Newark Museum of Art

People in Jersey don’t have to go all the way to New York to see world-famous art. The Newark Museum of Art continues to present a variety of works from renowned artists like Bony Ramirez and Saya Woolfalk. Likewise, the museum features historical pieces dating back to the 18th century, with new exhibitions on the horizon. The NMOA will also host public tours, creative workshops, live DJs, yoga classes, and planetarium shows throughout the year.

4. Montclair Film Festival

Montclair will host its annual, world-renowned film festival later in the year on October 17-26. This festival has welcomed several notable Hollywood figures in the past, allowing new generations of filmmakers from around the globe to present their films and jumpstart their careers. Though the event only happens one week a year, Montclair Film offers plenty of fun activities to fill the void, including improv comedy shows, movie screenings, and educational courses.

3. Campgaw Mountain

The Campgaw Mountain Ski Resort in Mahwah has been a popular spot for many people in Jersey during the wintertime. Throughout the season, guests can treat themselves to a thrilling day of skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. The resort also offers private or group lessons for those hoping to learn how to ride down the slopes. Season passes are still available; the resort will stay open through March, depending on the weather.

2. New Jersey State Fair

During the first week of August, New Jersey showcases its agriculture with an annual, non-profit fair at the Sussex County Fairgrounds in Augusta. This fun, family-friendly event features a variety of shows and activities ranging from carnival rides to art and farming museums to bull riding shows to even a demolition derby. The fair also hosts competitions like a battle of the bands, a talent show, a beauty pageant, and the famous Sussex County Horse Show.

1. State Fair Meadowlands

The Meadowlands Sports Complex hosts a carnival/amusement park every year from June to July, offering plenty of rides, games, and snacks for people to enjoy. In the past, the Meadowlands has held a variety of free attractions like pig races, BMX cycle stunts, petting zoos, magic shows, and concerts. Details for the next fair are still scarce, but it already seems to be the best way to kick off the summer with a bang.