Get ready for a culinary adventure in New Jersey and the chance to sample some new foods, discover new flavors, or explore cultural traditions.
Deeply intertwined with culture, food is a powerful symbol of identity, heritage and community, shaping not only our understanding of ourselves and others, but also connecting us to our roots. Recipes are passed from generation to generation, preserving cultural practices and the stories behind them.
Beyond the food itself, festivals are often lively cultural celebrations with music and other events that appeal to the entire family.
Food festivals are often held in the fall to coincide with the harvest season and the abundance of fresh produce available during that time.
Autumn is a time of celebration for the harvest, with many fruits and vegetables reaching their peak ripeness. This makes it a natural time to showcase these ingredients in culinary events and festivals.
When: Sept. 6 (11 a.m.) Where: Washington School Park Details: The Raritan Borough Fire Department will be hosting their second annual Food Truck & Music Festival with 18 gourmet food trucks, kids activities, vendors and more. Admission: Attendees are asked to bring a canned or boxed food item to support the local food pantry.
Food Trucktemberfest
When: Sept. 6 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Where: Monmouth Park Racetrack Details: Enjoy over a dozen of the area’s best food trucks serving up everything from lobster rolls to ice cream sundaes, plus live music by the Soulstirs. Admission: Free parking and free general admission
South Orange Downtown Beer Fest
When: Sept. 20 (2 p.m.) Where: 12 Sloan Street, South Orange Village Details: Sample craft beers from regional breweries, savor bites from local food vendors, and enjoy games, music and more at South Orange Downtown’s Beer Fest. Admission: The event is 21+ and proceeds benefit programs that support small businesses and enhance community spaces in South Orange Downtown. Tickets are required.
Downtown Freehold Oktoberfest
When: Oct. 5 (12-5 p.m.) Where: 1 East Main Street, Freehold Details: Enjoy a beer garden, vendors, food, music and more at Downtown Freehold’s third Oktoberfest.
New Brunswick Oktoberfest
When: Oct. 12 (12 p.m.) Where: Monument Square Park Details: Celebrate food, music and community with a variety of local and traditional food, craft brews and German beers at New Brunswick’s annual Oktoberfest. Admission: No entry fee. Beverages available for purchase and proper IDs are required.
Halloween Food Truck & Music Festival
When: Oct. 25-26 (11 a.m. to 7 p.m.) Where: Bradley Park, in front of the Convention Hall Details: 20 gourmet food trucks, an adult beverage garden, vendor shopping village and more. Admission: $5 (kids 10 years old and under are free)
Are you planning an event this fall? Feature it so nearby readers see it all across Patch — including in roundups like this!
Dining and Cooking