10 Best Thanksgiving Activities and Events in New Jersey!

Glasstown Brewing Company, Millville, NJ

Get local and dig into all that New Jersey has to offer by starting out your Thanksgiving break with a beer at Glasstown Brewing Company. This local brewing company has a tasting room open five days per week and offers a great selection of beers on tap. Taste their Maurice River Bourbon Brown Ale, which features a hint of bourbon flavor and is only available in the winter, or sip the Big Breakfast, which is a heavy porter tasting of coffee and maple.

Mr. Tod’s Pie Factory, Englewood, NJ

If you don’t want to bake your own pies for Thanksgiving, Mr. Tod’s Pie Factory offers the best homemade pies in the state. This Thanksgiving, Mr. Tod’s is offering sweet potato pie following a Southern-inspired recipe. Pecan pies, coconut pies, key lime pies, and pumpkin pies are also available in mini sizes or 10-inch pies. Shipping is available, so if you aren’t able to travel to Englewood to pick up your pies, you can receive them at home in time for Thanksgiving.

Ashley Farms, Flanders, NJ

Ashley Farms is a 60-year-old business that specializes in Thanksgiving as it sells pies and turkeys: two of the main Thanksgiving ingredients! The turkeys at Ashley Farms are 14 to 45 pounds, so be sure to calculate your turkey size accordingly based on the number of people coming to Thanksgiving dinner. Turkeys at Ashley Farms are raised from day-old chicks and never given growth hormones, antibiotics, preservatives, or fillers.

Columbus Farmers’ Market, Columbus, NJ

The Columbus Farmers' Market is the area's oldest and largest flea and produce markets. Farmers' market row and the Amish market are perfect spots to pick up any specialty needs for your Thanksgiving feast, as the vendors sell produce, eggs, fresh-cut flowers, and other gourmet goods. For after Thanksgiving fun, catch a bargain in the indoor or outdoor flea markets.

Madison Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting, Madison, NJ

November 24, 2023 at 5:30pm

Held on Nov. 24, this annual Christmas parade starts the holiday season with festivity and joy. Held along Main Street, this parade and tree lighting is a family-friendly event that is a perfect way to follow up a day shopping on Black Friday.

Whale’s Tale, Cape May, NJ

Supporting local businesses on Black Friday shows local businesses their commitment to their communities. That’s why Whale’s Tale is a perfect spot to visit to begin your holiday shopping. This beautiful store sells cool, nature-inspired toys, gorgeous jewelry, specialty Cape May items, and other great gifts.

Westfield Turkey Trot, Westfield, NJ

November 25, 2023 at 10:15am

This Thanksgiving, join the Westfield community in celebrating the 40th annual Westfield Turkey Trot. With friendly competition, camaraderie, and family fun, this cherished event is sure to be a memorable occasion. Get ready to strut your stuff and join the Thanksgiving festivities.

Covered Bridge Artisans Holiday Studio Tour, Stockton, NJ

November 24 to 25, 2023 at 10:00am

This exciting annual event takes place over the course of several days around Thanksgiving. Guests have the opportunity to visit six open artists’ studios and 10 artists in the Sergeantsville Cultural Arts Center. This free, self-guided tour is a great way to support art in your community. 

Hoboken Turkey Trot, Hoboken, NJ

November 18, 2023 at 10:00am

Join in with the citizens of Hoboken on their annual turkey trot 5K and one-mile fun run. The run takes place along the beautiful waterfront. Neither race will be officially timed.

Jersey City Turkey Day 5K, Jersey City, NJ

November 23, 2023 at 10:00am

Bring your running shoes and appetite to the Jersey City Turkey Day 5K. On Thursday, November 23rd, join hundreds for a 5K run/walk starting at 10 am. Go the distance and burn off those extra Thanksgiving calories.