Last Bell FamilyThe annual fairs, fire-department carnivals, fall festivals, tree lightings and holiday traditions. Curated by a Bergen mom.
A free county tradition and the closest thing Bergen has to a true county fair — carnival rides, a petting zoo with freshly hatched chicks, hands-on 4-H projects, a craft fair, and live music.
Good for: All ages · Admission is free — see the chicks and petting zoo early in the day.
Directions ↗Downtown Ridgewood closes the avenue for one of North Jersey's biggest craft fairs (200+ artisans), with inflatables, face painting, and games to keep kids busy. A free, easy-stroll fall Sunday.
Good for: All ages · Parking goes fast — arrive before noon or take the train to Ridgewood station.
Directions ↗A nostalgic, old-school spring carnival by the train station for one week each May — rides, games, fried food, and prizes, doubling as a fundraiser for the volunteer fire department.
Good for: All ages · Hit the discounted unlimited-ride bracelet nights (often Tue & Wed) for the best value.
Directions ↗A wholesome hometown Fourth — a morning parade then a family fair in Memorial Park with free train rides, a petting zoo, games, and amusements. The kind of day families come back to every year.
Good for: All ages · Watch the parade, then head straight to the park for free kids' rides before lines build.
Directions ↗Ridgewood goes all-in — a morning flag raising and 10am parade down the avenue, then evening food trucks and fireworks at Veterans Field. A full-day, all-ages celebration close to home.
Good for: All ages · Bring blankets and claim a fireworks spot at Veterans Field well before dusk.
Directions ↗A charming fall festival on a Revolutionary War-era site — living history, Bavarian music and food, in a beautiful riverside setting. A cultural, low-key alternative to a big beer-hall Oktoberfest.
Good for: All ages · Pair it with a tour of the Steuben House; wear comfy shoes for the grassy grounds.
Directions ↗A magical December evening — live music, fire pits, s'mores, and a beloved tree lighting, plus a special early hour with Santa and train rides. The start of the holiday season for many Bergen families.
Good for: All ages, magical under-10 · Arrive for the 5–6pm kids' hour to see Santa before the crowds, then stay for the lighting.
Directions ↗A full winter playground at Van Saun Park each holiday season — open-air ice skating, bumper cars, a carousel, and a heated tent with food and live music, right beside the Bergen County Zoo.
Good for: All ages · Buy skating sessions online ahead; combine with the zoo's 'Let It GLOW' next door.
Directions ↗The Bergen County Zoo glows after dark with 30+ giant hand-painted lanterns shaped like animals and holiday scenes, with cozy fire pits and s'mores — a wonder-filled evening stroll for all ages.
Good for: All ages · Go on a clear cold evening for the best glow — bundle up.
Directions ↗Bergen's big spring kickoff — bagpipes, marching bands, and Irish pride down downtown Bergenfield. A festive, free, all-ages street celebration that draws crowds from across the county.
Good for: All ages · Bundle up — mid-March is chilly — and arrive early for a curbside spot.
Directions ↗The best kid & family events across Bergen’s 70 towns — plus new parks & spots — in one free Friday email.
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