Falling for Fun: Embracing Autumn with Local Events in South New Jersey

by Rachel Romano

As the leaves change and the air becomes crisp, South New Jersey transforms into a canvas of autumnal beauty, offering an array of exciting events to celebrate the season. From festive harvest fairs to spooky Halloween extravaganzas, there's something for everyone to fall in love with. I’ve curated some local events that will surely make your autumn unforgettable.

FAMILY FRIENDLY FUN

Adventure Aquarium, FREE Pre-K Pass

Until October 29th

Embark on a year-long adventure with Adventure Aquarium's Pre-K Kid’s Adventure Pass! Kids aged 2-5 enjoy FREE, unlimited admission for a year. Register now and activate passes to enjoy their Fintastic Fall Days (Sept 21 - Nov 5). Kids can explore sunken gourds, enjoy sensory tables with pumpkin slime, and paint a pumpkin masterpiece for $5. Don't miss the "What Goes Bump in the Midnight Zone" show, revealing deep-sea secrets. Dive into a sea of fun and discovery! 

Get your pass here: https://www.adventureaquarium.com/aquarium-admission/memberships/pre-k/

More information on Fintastic Fall Days here: https://www.adventureaquarium.com/explore/special-events/fintastic-fall-days/

Autumn Leaf Pumpkin Train 

Until October 29th

Embark on a magical autumn journey with the Woodstown Central Railroad. Revel in the rare-milage train ride through lush woods and scenic farmland, leading you to the beautiful Fenwick Grove. During the 30-minute stop, pick out a pumpkin, enjoy cider and a donut, engage in fall-themed activities, and take in the views along the Fenwick Creek. This unforgettable Fall experience promises approximately 90 minutes of pure joy.

Book your tickets here: https://woodstowncentral.com/excursions/#autumn

Touch a Truck at the Roebling Museum

October 21, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Touch a Truck event is a fantastic family-friendly experience that provides a unique opportunity for individuals of all ages to learn about different types of trucks, their functions, and their importance in our community. Get involved and be a part of this exciting event!

Learn more about the event here: https://www.roeblingmuseum.org/events/touch-a-truck

Rescue 22 Foundation 1st Annual Bags, Brews, and Barks Charity Cornhole Tournament 

October 28, 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM 

Inaugurate the 1st Annual Bags, Brews, and Barks Charity Cornhole Tournament at Total Turf! This exciting event promises music, a vibrant beer garden, delights from 614 Grille, and a variety of food trucks. Attendees will have the chance to meet the impressive service dog teams of the Rescue 22 Foundation while contributing to the fundraising efforts for more veterans in need. All proceeds, a full 100%, will go directly to supporting the Rescue 22 Foundation and the Gloucester County Police K9 Association. It's a fantastic opportunity to have fun while making a meaningful impact! 

Get your tickets here: https://donorbox.org/events/495307

CULINARY CELEBRATIONS

Dinner in the Vineyard With Haddon Culinary

November 8 and December 6

Experience an enchanting evening at Auburn Road with Haddon Culinary, featuring a four-course farm-to-table Dinner in the Vineyard. Set against the backdrop of the vineyard, indulge in al fresco dining as Haddon Culinary Chef owners James Liuzza and Joseph Muldoon guide you through a culinary journey featuring locally sourced foods. Relish the harmonious flavors of each course, expertly paired with Auburn Road wines by Jules herself.

Reserve a slot and discover their other events here: https://www.auburnroadvineyards.com/whats-happening

 

 

CANVAS AND CHORDS

Fall Annual Juried Competition

Until October 27th

In this annual Fall competition, dozens of artists from the region typically submit over 100 works for consideration. Juror Henri Meillier, a professional artist and teacher, will curate the exhibit by selecting 40 entries. At the October 21 artists’ reception, he will announce the winners, awarding first, second, and third places, along with an honorable mention. Gallery hours are 10 am to 2 pm Monday to Friday and noon to 4 pm on Saturday. Don't miss the free artists’ reception and awards presentation on Saturday, October 21, from 5 to 8 pm.

Learn more here: Fall Annual Juried Competition


Appalachian Spring

October 28, 8:00 PM 

In a remarkable collaboration from the College of Performing Arts, a diverse cast of faculty and alumni will present a historic American work through a more inclusive lens. Through the fusion of physical theatre, modern dance, and theatrical design, "Appalachian Spring" seeks to evoke a more inclusive image of the American historical landscape. This re-imagined dance work will delve into the history of the Melungeon, a group of people with multiracial ancestry who may have been among America’s earliest settlers in the Appalachian Mountains.

Book your tickets here: https://ci.ovationtix.com/35360/production/1175111


Melody and Color Concert with Piano Soloist Alexandre Moutouzkine

October 21 @ 3:00 PM,  October 22, 2:00 PM

https://www.bayatlanticsymphony.org/

https://visitsouthjersey.com/event/melody-and-color-concert-with-piano-soloist-alexandre-moutouzkine-kicks-off-bay-atlantic-symphonys-41st-concert-season/

"Melody and Color" marks the inaugural concert of Bay Atlantic Symphony's 2023-2024 season, celebrating its 41st season under the direction of Music Director Maestro Jed Gaylin. The performance commences with Composer Alexander Borodin's symphonic poem, "In the Steppes of Central Asia," an evocative tale of the Silk Road, weaving stories of long journeys and unexpected camaraderie.

Renowned solo pianist Alexandre Moutouzkine returns to Bay Atlantic Symphony, adding his virtuosity to Alexander Scriabin's Piano Concerto, the only concerto penned by the famed composer. Moutouzkine is among the accomplished musicians featured in this season's lineup.

The grand finale of the evening is Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 5, a masterpiece of symphonic music celebrated for its iconic moments and unforgettable melodies.

Book tickets here: https://www.bayatlanticsymphony.org/


HAUNTED HAPPENINGS

Terror in the Junkyard – presented by the Scully Volunteer Fire Company

Fri. & Sat. 7:00-10:00 PM Sun. 7:00-9:00 PM

Presented by the Scully Volunteer Fire Company, "Terror in the Junkyard" is an annual Halloween event not for the faint of heart. Venture deep into the dark woods of Scullville where you'll face a host of horrors on the "Terror in the Junkyard", Haunted Hayride, and take your chances in the "Maze of Terror." For those seeking a more sensory-friendly experience, a special hayride is available from 4:30pm to 6:00pm on Saturday, October 21st.

Register here: Terror in the Junkyard Eventbrite


Hallowine on Haddon: A Pop-up Movie and Spirits Nights

October 20, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

https://visitsouthjersey.com/event/hallowine-on-haddon/

Join in the magic of a night under the stars at the Outdoor Movie Night, featuring the timeless thriller "The Shining." Indulge in the finest New Jersey wines and beers curated by Visit South Jersey, or explore the imaginative Zero-Proof Cocktails by Mercantile 1888. The enchanting evening will be accompanied by live music to set a spooky mood, complemented by cozy fire pits for gathering. Delight in tasty treats like s'mores and popcorn as you soak in the cinematic ambiance. It's an invitation to experience a memorable night of films, drinks, and camaraderie beneath the moonlit sky. 

Learn more here: https://visitsouthjersey.com/event/hallowine-on-haddon-a-pop-up-movie-spirits-night/


Hallowheaton

October 28, 2023, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

FREE

https://www.wheatonarts.org/calendar-eventon/events/hallowheaton/

Discover the magic behind a beloved local family tradition at the annual HalloWheaton event! Don your Halloween costume and embark on a whimsical journey throughout the WheatonArts campus. Encounter costumed characters skillfully portrayed by Mystic Realms actors, capture memorable photos, and engage in free family art activities. Witness the mesmerizing artistry in the Glass Studio as talented artists manipulate molten glass using unconventional tools like pumpkins and gourds. Don't miss the Youth Scarecrow Contest, presented by Rutgers Master Gardeners of Cumberland County, showcased in the WheatonArts Discovery Garden.

Enjoy FREE admission for the day as part of the "WheatonArts Family Days! Presented by PNC Arts Alive!" program. In the event of inclement weather, the delightful trick-or-treating activities will move indoors to the Event Center. For more details, visit wheatonarts.org.

Learn more here: https://www.wheatonarts.org/calendar-eventon/events/hallowheaton/


Cedar Run For Your Life: Haunted Guided Night Hike

October 28, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM

Embark on a spine-chilling adventure just in time for the eerie atmosphere of Halloween! Join Cedar Run for haunted guided night hikes where the bravest souls can explore the woods after dark. Delve into the Legend of the Jersey Devil and encounter other mysterious cryptids—if you dare. Gather around a campfire to roast marshmallows and enjoy a Halloween movie, but beware, survival is not guaranteed!

This thrilling experience is designed for ages 10 and up, and spaces for each Haunted Guided Hike are limited. Tickets are on sale now, but act quickly before they vanish into thin air! Admission is $25 per person. Please note that children aged 10-15 must be accompanied by an adult during the hike, and no children under 10 are permitted. While costumes are encouraged, they are not mandatory for this hair-raising adventure.

Get your tickets at https://www.cedarrun.org/events


As the air gets crisp and the leaves put on their autumn show, New Jersey is the place to be! From cool fall festivals to Halloween fun, the Garden State has it all. Sip some local wine, dive into artsy vibes, or enjoy family-friendly events—New Jersey's got the fall spirit. These happenings not only show off the state's cool history and creativity but also prove why Jersey is an awesome place to live. So, grab a sweater, make some memories, and soak in the special vibe that makes New Jersey one fantastic home.

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Rachel Romano

REALTOR® | License ID: 1111154

+1(609) 238-1329

123 W Jersey Ave, Pitman, NJ, 08071

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