September may be New Jersey’s most underrated month.

The summer crowds begin to thin, fall festivals return and the weather is often just right for an outdoor adventure. It’s the sweet spot when you can sip tart lemonade at the Shore and order something pumpkin-spiced on the way home.

Whether you’re holding onto summer or already dreaming of apple orchards and Oktoberfest, there are plenty of fun things to do in New Jersey in September 2026. From major music festivals in Monmouth County to seafood celebrations, scenic hikes, historic sites and family-friendly outings, here are some of the month’s biggest events and best day-trip ideas.

When: Sept. 13
Where: Wildwood

For one day only, Raging Waters Water Park is going to the dogs—literally.

During Puppa Palooza, four-legged visitors can make a splash and doggy-paddle through attractions normally reserved for humans. It’s an unusual end-of-summer outing for dog owners and their furry best friends.

Check the official website for admission requirements, rules and participating attractions before bringing your pup.

When: Sept. 19
Where: Wildwood

Morey’s Piers is kicking off Oktoberfest with a two-mile fun run along the beach and boardwalk—with planned beer breaks along the course.

Participants who cross the finish line receive a commemorative stein filled with beer and a soft pretzel. Visit the official Boardwalk Bier Run website for registration details and participant requirements.

When: Sept. 19–20
Where: Ski Beach, Ventnor

Seafood lovers can sample coastal flavors at the Downbeach Seafood Festival.

Regional restaurants, seafood purveyors and culinary artisans will serve fresh seafood while presenting cooking demonstrations and other food-focused activities. Craft beer and additional festival attractions will also be available.

Advance tickets are recommended.

When: Sept. 19–20
Where: Asbury Park

One of New Jersey’s biggest music festivals returns to the Asbury Park waterfront with more than 25 performers appearing on three stages—two on the sand and one in Bradley Park.

The 2026 lineup includes Mumford & Sons, The Strokes, Chaka Khan, The Offspring, Goo Goo Dolls, The All-American Rejects, Moby and Fontaines D.C.

Sea.Hear.Now combines live music with surfing, art and the unmistakable energy of Asbury Park. The festival’s official website currently lists regular one-day and two-day general admission tickets as sold out, although a waitlist and verified resale options may be available. Check the Sea.Hear.Now website for the latest ticket information and complete schedule.

September is known as “local summer” along the Jersey Shore—and for good reason.

After Labor Day, the crowds become smaller, parking is often easier and the ocean remains warm enough for many beachgoers. It’s an excellent time to stroll the boardwalk, watch an early-fall sunset, take a dolphin-watching cruise or enjoy lunch near the water.

Cape May, Ocean City, Asbury Park, Long Branch and other New Jersey beach towns continue to offer plenty to see and do after the traditional summer season ends. Just remember that beach patrol and lifeguard schedules may be limited, so check locally before swimming.

When: Saturdays through Sept. 26
Where: Pilesgrove

Experience live bull riding, barrel racing, bronc riding, lassoing and more at Cowtown Rodeo.

The action begins at 7:30 p.m. every Saturday during the rodeo season. Tickets may be purchased online or at the rodeo ticket booth beginning at 6 p.m.

When: Sept. 5–6, 12–13 and 19–20
Where: Sparta

Travel back in time during the Sparta Renaissance Festival.

The 2026 theme is “A New Generation of Knights.” Visitors can watch jousting tournaments, sword fighting, storytellers and live musical performances. Other activities include archery, axe throwing and “magic fishing.”

The festival is held rain or shine. Tickets may be purchased online or at the gate.

When: Sept. 12
Where: Flying W Airport, Medford

The Bacon, Bourbon and Brews Festival brings together bold food, spirits and craft beer for one flavorful September outing.

Along with bourbon and bacon-inspired dishes, visitors can enjoy live music, food trucks, vendors and family-friendly activities. Check the event website for tickets, hours and age restrictions for alcohol-related areas.

When: Sept. 12–13
Where: Hunterdon County 4-H Fairgrounds, Ringoes

Things get wild and woolly during the 31st annual Garden State Sheep & Fiber Festival.

The weekend includes rare-breed sheep shows, shearing demonstrations, fleece sales, herding-dog demonstrations, spinning, weaving, food vendors and activities for the entire family.

Pets should remain at home for this event.

When: Select nights, Sept. 18–Nov. 1
Where: Jackson

Haunted mazes, roaming ghouls, scare zones, live entertainment and nighttime rides return when Fright Fest takes over Six Flags Great Adventure.

Fright Fest is not recommended for children younger than 13. Families looking for a gentler Halloween experience can visit Kids Boo Fest, offered during daylight hours on select dates beginning Sept. 12.

Dates, attractions and admission requirements vary, so check the park’s website before visiting.

When: Sept. 19–20
Where: Vernon

Break out the lederhosen for Mountain Creek’s 42nd Annual Oktoberfest.

This popular North Jersey celebration traditionally features German food, beer, live entertainment and festival activities surrounded by mountain scenery. Check the official event page for hours, tickets and transportation information.

When: Sept. 26
Where: Washington, Warren County

The free Festival in the Borough is billed as Warren County’s largest outdoor music festival.

Visitors can listen to live bands, browse vendor booths and sample festival food during this community-wide celebration.

When: Sept. 26
Where: Glassboro

The Glassboro Craft Beer Festival returns with more than 50 breweries and wineries, live music, food trucks and local craft vendors.

Shot of Southern is scheduled to headline the entertainment. Tickets are available through the festival’s official ticket site.

September marks the start of prime apple-picking season in New Jersey.

At Terhune Orchards Vineyard & Winery in Princeton, September varieties may include Honeycrisp, Early Fuji, Gala, Jonathan, Empire and Crimson Crisp.

The farm also produces white, red and fruit wines. Crop availability can change because of weather and demand, so confirm picking conditions before leaving home.

You can also explore additional New Jersey farms and orchards offering apples, pumpkins, hayrides and other seasonal attractions.

September’s cooler temperatures make it an inviting time to hit the trail.

The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area encompasses nearly 70,000 acres along approximately 40 miles of the Delaware River. The recreation area also includes 28 miles of the Appalachian Trail.

Experienced hikers can explore the Appalachian Trail through New Jersey, while casual walkers can choose shorter routes and scenic overlooks.

New Jersey’s many state and national parks offer options for a wide range of ages and abilities. Check trail conditions and difficulty levels before heading out.

America’s 250th anniversary makes 2026 an especially meaningful year to visit New Jersey’s Revolutionary War sites.

Washington Crossing State Park in Titusville preserves the area where General George Washington and the Continental Army began their famous Delaware River crossing on Dec. 25, 1776.

History lovers can turn the visit into a longer getaway using one of New Jersey’s American Revolution trip itineraries.

September may be packed, but October brings another full calendar of fall activities.

Upcoming events include:

September gives New Jersey residents the best of both seasons. You can spend the morning beside the ocean, visit a festival in the afternoon and come home with fresh-picked apples for dessert.

Event schedules, ticket availability and weather policies can change. Always check the organizer’s official website before traveling.