A Guide to Spring Festivals in New Jersey, 2023

Spring Festivals Bloom Across New Jersey: A Guide to the Garden State's Celebrations

*Updated 4/12/2023, with postponement of NJ Wine & Food Festival and addition of NJ Beer & Food Festival at Crystal Springs Resort.

This spring, New Jersey is coming alive with an array of vibrant festivals sure to enthrall residents and visitors alike. From the art of filmmaking to cherry blossom celebrations, and from anime conventions to seafood festivals, the Garden State has something for everyone. Mark your calendars and get ready to explore the best of New Jersey's spring festivities.

Kicking off the season is the Garden State Film Festival, which runs from March 23 to 26, 2023. This annual event celebrates independent films and the art of filmmaking in the birthplace of the American filmmaking industry. The festival features film, video, and animated works showcased at various venues across New Jersey. Tickets can be purchased here.

Next up is the Essex County Cherry Blossom Festival, taking place in Branch Brook Park from April 1 to 16, 2023. With over 5,000 cherry trees in bloom—more than any other park in the U.S.—the festival offers a stunning spectacle alongside events like bike races, a 10K run, Japanese demonstrations, a 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk, live music, and more.

The Shad Festival in Lambertville, happening on April 22 and 23, 2023, offers a unique celebration of the return of shad swimming up the Delaware River. This rain-or-shine event features good food, live music, vendors, and plenty of fun for the whole family.

For anime enthusiasts, the Castle Point Anime Convention takes place at the Meadowlands Expo Center on April 29 and 30, 2023. Founded in 2008, this student-run event offers a family-friendly space for cosplay fans of all ages. Tickets and further details can be found here.

Travel back in time with the Renaissance Faire at Historic Smithville, also happening on April 29 and 30, 2023. Experience the English Renaissance with comedy, sword fighting, dancing, knights, jesters, vendors, and historical wares.

UPDATE: The NJ Wine & Food Festival at Crystal Springs Resort, originally scheduled for May 5 to 7, 2023, has been postponed to next year. 

However, don't miss the NJ Beer & Food Festival taking place on June 17, 2023, at Crystal Springs in Hamburg, NJ. This all-outdoor event will feature over 200 brews, offering a fantastic opportunity for enthusiasts to come together. Mark your calendar for a day of great beer, food, and fun in the beautiful outdoor setting.

The Exit Zero Spring Jazz Festival takes place at Cape May Convention Hall from May 5 to 7, 2023. This three-day event features hundreds of musicians and international touring artists performing on stage in the Convention Hall, as well as live evening performances in bars and restaurants throughout Cape May. Tickets can be purchased here.

Seafood lovers will want to mark their calendars for the New Jersey Seafood Festival in Belmar, taking place from May 19 to 21, 2023. Indulge in scallops, lobster rolls, coconut shrimp, fresh salads, and all your favorite seafood specialties, with local artisans and market vendors also on-site.

The Asbury Park Vegan Food Festival is happening at Bradley Park on May 20 and 21, 2023. This two-day celebration offers attendees the chance to discover delicious vegan and plant-based meals from local chefs, as well as vegan products, plant-based fashion, live music, and more. Tickets can be found here.

Finally, the Wildwoods International Kite Festival will be held on the beach at Rio Grande Avenue from May 26 to 29, 2023. This four-day kite-flying extravaganza promises to be a hit with people of all ages—singles, couples, parents, and kids alike.

These are just a few of the incredible spring festivals taking place in the Garden State. Remember to check social media pages and websites for the latest information on each event before you go. 

With such a diverse and exciting lineup, this spring season in New Jersey is sure to be one to remember. Don't miss your chance to experience the very best that the Garden State has to offer in the coming months.