When September arrives, New Jersey turns into a playground of festivals, flavors, and family fun. The summer crowds fade, the beaches are calmer, and the state bursts with events that celebrate music, food, and culture. Whether it’s a jazz concert under the stars, a butterfly parade by the sea, or apple picking in the crisp air, the Garden State delivers unforgettable memories. And with HomeExchange, travelers can enjoy these moments with the comfort of a real home — space to cook, relax, and feel like locals.

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Rodeo Thrills and Oktoberfest Vibes

  • Cowtown Rodeo (Pilesgrove): Every Saturday night in September, the sound of hooves and cheering crowds fills the air. Bull riding, barrel racing, and lasso stunts bring the Wild West to New Jersey.
  • Oktoberfest Weekends (Wildwood): Pretzels, steins, and lively music turn the boardwalk into a Bavarian-style celebration.
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HomeExchange tip: After an evening of music and food, it’s easier to return to a cozy home instead of a busy hotel — especially for families who need downtime.

Scares, Knights, and Jazz Nights

  • Six Flags Fright Fest (Jackson): Haunted mazes, spooky zones, and nighttime rides for thrill seekers, plus a daytime Boo Fest for younger kids.
  • Sparta Renaissance Festival: Knights in armor, jousting, artisan vendors, and medieval games — a step back in time.
  • Montclair Jazz Festival (Sept. 13): Streets fill with music, food stalls, and art, creating one of New Jersey’s most colorful events.
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Flavor-Packed Festivals

  • Downbeach Seafood Festival (Ventnor, Sept. 13–14): Lobster rolls, oysters, and grilled seafood by the shore.
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HomeExchange tip: Staying in a home with a kitchen makes trips to food festivals even better. Pick up local specialties and recreate the flavors later for a family dinner.

Music by the Sea and Family Fun

  • Sea.Hear.Now Festival (Asbury Park, Sept. 13–14): Bands perform on stages by the beach, where the ocean provides the backdrop.
  • Monarch Festival (Cape May, Sept. 28): Butterfly parades, games, and live demonstrations celebrate the monarch migration.
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Outdoors, Apples, and History

  • Apple Picking: Orchards across the state open their fields for Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Gala apples. A fun way to spend a crisp fall day.
  • Delaware Water Gap Hikes: With 70,000 acres of trails, including the Appalachian Trail, it’s the place to breathe in fresh mountain air.

Quick Glance: September in New Jersey

Event/Activity Where Why Go Best For
Cowtown Rodeo Pilesgrove Rodeo stunts, live action Families, adventure seekers
Oktoberfest Weekends Wildwood German food, boardwalk fun Friends, couples
Fright Fest Jackson Haunted rides & mazes Teens, thrill seekers
Renaissance Festival Sparta Knights, jousting, crafts Families, history fans
Montclair Jazz Festival Montclair Live jazz & art Music lovers
Downbeach Seafood Festival Ventnor Fresh seafood & coastal pride Foodies
Sea.Hear.Now Asbury Park Bands on the beach Music & surf fans
Monarch Festival Cape May Butterflies & family games Families, nature lovers
Apple Picking Statewide Seasonal flavors & fun Families
Delaware Water Gap Northwest NJ Scenic hikes & trails Outdoor lovers

Why September + HomeExchange = The Best New Jersey Escape

With so many things to do in New Jersey in September, hotel costs can add up quickly. Choosing HomeExchange means more space, a kitchen for farm-to-table dinners, and the comfort of staying in real neighborhoods close to the action. It turns a festival-filled getaway into something even better: a trip that feels like home.

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