by Jersey City, New Jersey — Halloween 2026 is bringing costume parades, community festivals, candy giveaways and family-friendly activities to Jersey City. With Halloween falling on Saturday, October 31, residents and visitors can enjoy a full weekend of seasonal celebrations, from neighborhood Trunk-or-Treat events to a waterfront Halloween run and a downtown family bash.
Families planning their Halloween outings have several options throughout the city, including free activities for children, costume celebrations and entertainment for adults. Many events are scheduled for October 29–31, making the final days of October an ideal time to explore Jersey City’s Halloween festivities.
1. Halloween Family Bash in Downtown Jersey City
One of the major Halloween celebrations in Jersey City is the annual Halloween Family Bash in the Historic Downtown district.
The 2026 event is scheduled for Saturday, October 31, from noon to 8 p.m. at the Newark Avenue Pedestrian Mall and Plaza.
Families can look forward to games, a corn maze, face painting, pumpkins, a bounce house and candy. The celebration offers children an opportunity to wear their favorite costumes while enjoying activities in a lively downtown setting.
Adults can also explore Terror Tavern, a separate Halloween-themed attraction planned for the Newark Avenue area. The event gives families and groups of friends a way to enjoy Halloween without travelling outside Jersey City.
2. Annual Fall Festival at the Bethune Center
The Annual Fall Festival provides another option for families looking for seasonal entertainment on Halloween day.
The 2026 festival is scheduled for October 31, from noon to 6 p.m., at the Bethune Center, located at 140 Martin Luther King Drive.
The community gathering is part of Jersey City’s fall festivities and offers an opportunity for residents to celebrate the season together. Visitors should check the latest event arrangements for details about children’s activities, entertainment and admission.
Families can consider combining this festival with other nearby Halloween activities, depending on their schedules.
3. Halloween Parade at Lincoln Park
Children who enjoy dressing up can look forward to the Halloween Parade scheduled for Saturday, October 31, from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Lincoln Park.
Organized by the South Hudson Civic Association, the parade provides a community setting for Halloween costumes and seasonal fun. It is a good option for families who prefer daytime activities before the evening trick-or-treating celebrations begin.
Parents can prepare costumes in advance and arrive early to allow time for parking and finding the gathering area near the playground next to the Gallo Center.
4. Haunted Jersey City Halloween 5K
For residents who want to combine fitness with Halloween celebrations, the Haunted Jersey City Halloween 5K offers a different way to mark the holiday.
The event is scheduled for October 31, with activities beginning at 9 a.m. and continuing until 11 a.m. The race starts near the Colgate Clock along the Jersey City waterfront.
Participants can enjoy a Halloween-themed run or walk while taking in views of the waterfront. A shorter one-mile fun run is also available for those who prefer a less demanding distance.
The event can appeal to runners, walkers and groups looking for an active start to Halloween Saturday. Participants should confirm registration requirements and arrival instructions before race day.
5. JCPD South District Trunk-or-Treat
Families can also attend the Jersey City Police Department South District Trunk-or-Treat event on Friday, October 30, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
The celebration takes place at the P.S. #41 Martin Center for the Arts, located at 59 Wilkinson Avenue.
Decorated vehicle trunks, candy, costumes and community activities make Trunk-or-Treat events a popular alternative to traditional door-to-door trick-or-treating. Children can collect treats in a designated setting while families enjoy an early Halloween celebration.
The event is a convenient option for residents who want to start the Halloween weekend before Saturday.
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6. JCPD East District Trunk-or-Treat
Another community option is the JCPD East District Trunk-or-Treat, scheduled for Thursday, October 29, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
The event is planned for the third floor of the Newport Center parking garage at 30 Mall Drive West.
Children can dress in Halloween costumes and participate in the seasonal candy giveaway. The event provides an opportunity for families in the eastern part of Jersey City to enjoy Halloween activities before the weekend’s larger celebrations.
Which Halloween event in Jersey City are you planning to attend this year? Share your favorite activities and Halloween traditions in the comments.
