Founder & Local Events Expert
September in New Jersey means more than just the return of sweater weather – it’s Oktoberfest season! While Munich gets all the glory, the Garden State serves up its own impressive lineup of Bavarian celebrations that’ll have you questioning whether you need that expensive trip to Germany after all.
Medford’s Oktoberfest transforms Freedom Park into an authentic Bavarian celebration that rivals anything you’d find in Munich (okay, maybe that’s a slight exaggeration, but the beer selection is legit).
This two-day festival brings together everything that makes Oktoberfest special: traditional German food, live music across three stages, and enough local and international beer to make you practice your “Prost!”
When: September 19 (5:00-9:00 PM) & September 20 (1:00-9:00 PM)
Cost: Free
Distance: 90 mins from Jersey City (google maps link)
Mountain Creek Resort is making some bold claims about having New Jersey’s top Oktoberfest, and honestly? They might be onto something. This two-day celebration in Vernon combines traditional German festivities with resort-style activities that you won’t find at your typical beer tent.
When: September 20-21, 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM both days
Cost: $25 General Admission, $125 VIP, Kids 6 & under free
Distance: 1 hr & 20 mins from Jersey City (google maps link)
When you’ve been throwing the same party for 24 years, you either get really good at it or people stop showing up. Highlands clearly chose the first option. This waterfront community celebration at Veterans Park brings together authentic German culture with that relaxed Jersey Shore vibe that makes everything feel a little more laid-back.
When: Saturday, September 20, 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Rain date: September 27)
Cost: Free
Distance: 1 hr from Jersey City (google maps link)
The Chester Lions Club Oktoberfest combines traditional German festivities with a classic car show that draws vintage vehicle enthusiasts from across the region.
What makes this event special is its community fundraising focus – all proceeds support local charities including police and fire departments, Morristown Memorial Hospital, and organizations like Soldiers Angels.
When: September 27 (12:00 PM – 9:00 PM) & September 28 (12:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
Cost: Fundraiser Event
Distance: 1 hr from Jersey City (google maps link)
The Chester Lions Club Oktoberfest combines traditional German festivities with a classic car show that draws vintage vehicle enthusiasts from across the region.
What makes this event special is its community fundraising focus – all proceeds support local charities including police and fire departments, Morristown Memorial Hospital, and organizations like Soldiers Angels.
When: September 27 (12:00 PM – 9:00 PM) & September 28 (12:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
Cost: Fundraiser Event
Distance: 1 hr from Jersey City (google maps link)
*Remember to check each festival’s website for the most current information and any weather-related updates before heading out!
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