Mid-winter blues got you stuck in a creative rut with your little ones? Before you start wishing you could fast-forward to spring, check out our awesome list of 50 free things to do in February around New Jersey. (We promise it doesn’t include another visit to the train table at Barnes & Noble.) Read on for unique, warm and toasty indoor activities to heart-pumping, brain-stimulating ones. And best of all, did we mention – they’re all FREE?
Don’t forget to tag #NJMOM and @njmom for the chance to have your kids featured in one of our articles.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published as “30 Free Events in February around New Jersey” on February 1. We have added more great, free activities and events here – just look for the asterisk after the event name!
50 Free Events in February around New Jersey
1. Mommy and Me Dance Class
Friday, February 2, 2018 | 11:00AM
You and your child (must be older than 18 months old) can get moving together! Allied Performing Arts Center is offering a free Mommy and Me Dance Class for you and your little one to experience together. Sign up for the classes online.
Allied Performing Arts Center
6 Edgeboro Rd., East Brunswick, NJ 08816
2. Family Fun Fridays
Friday, February 2, 2018 | 5:00PM to 7:00PM
Is shopping with your kids a circus? Well, the Berlin Market is a dream come true. Every Friday for the rest of this year, this marvelous event offers free face painting, balloon characters, and airbrush or glitter tattoos to dazzle the kids. What better way to spend your Friday night than getting in some shopping while eating good food and making memories at the Berlin Market?
Berlin Farmers Market
41 Clementon Rd., Berlin, NJ 08009
3. Free Kids Meal
Friday, February 2, 2018 | All Day
The Pop Shop is partnering with Phil the Groundhog this Groundhog Day to give you a free kid’s meal. If Phil sees his shadow, boys under the age of 12 will receive a free Squirt meal with the purchase of an adult meal; and if Phil doesn’t see his shadow, girls under 12 will receive a free Squirt meal with the purchase of an adult meal. All kids will receive a free coloring sheet and ice cream coupon for their next visit to The Pop Shop! May the odds be ever in your favor!
The Pop Shop
729 Haddon Ave., Collingswood, NJ, 08108
4. Descriptive Writing Workshop
Saturday, February 3, 2018 | 2:30PM to 4:30PM
If your kids love to write, this workshop is for them. The JEI Learning Center of Piscataway’s workshop will give your kids the skills to continue growing as a writer. Kids in grades 6 through 8 are from 2:30PM to 3:30PM, while grades 3 through 5 are from 3:30PM to 4:30PM. Registration is required. Click here to register.
JEI Learning Center of Piscataway
1629 Stelton Rd., Piscataway, NJ 08854
Bright Horizons at Maxwell Place. Via
5. Move and Groove Dance Party
Saturday, February 3, 2018 | 10:00AM to 12:00PM
If your kids like to get down and groovy, this is the event for you! Bright Horizons in Hoboken is hosting this free two-hour event to get your kids moving! Preschool of Rock will be the entertainment for the day while your kids learn about fruits and vegetables at the Make Your Own Smoothie Bar. Obstacle course, refreshments and raffles included. Register on their website.
Bright Horizons at Maxwell Place
1155 Maxwell Lane, Hoboken, NJ 07030
6. Snake Meet & Greet
Saturday, February 3 and Sunday, February 4, 2018 | 12:00PM
This is the perfect event for those kids who aren’t shy about slithering creatures. Your kids will get up close and personal with a variety of native snakes that call the Garden State home at the Manasquan Reservoir Environmental Center.
Manasquan Reservoir Environmental Center
331 Georgia Tavern Rd., Howell, NJ 07731
7. Baseball and Softball Clinics
Saturday, February 3 and 10, 2018 | 8:00AM to 12:00PM
Warm up for the upcoming baseball and softball season with the help of the Tri-Town Little League. With two clinics in February, your little ones will be sure to get ahead of the curve. Check out the Facebook event page for more information.
Rockaway Valley School
11 Valley Rd., Boonton, NJ 07005
Playmakers Football Academy. Via
8. Football Clinic
Sunday, February 4, 2018 | 2:30PM to 4:30PM
Is there any other way to kick off the Super Bowl than to play a game of football yourself? Kids from 7 years old and up can attend this clinic hosted by the Playmakers Football Academy, which is at NJ Sports House. For more information about the clinic or to register, visit their website.
NJ Sports House
12 Wright Way, Oakland, NJ 07436
9. Books on the Move
Sunday, February 4, 2018 | 2:00PM to 4:00PM
Families can enjoy an interactive storytelling experience together at the Springfield Free Public Library thanks to NJPAC. Kids and their families will hear the story Freebird by Misty Copeland and Christopher Myers. During the event, the kids will do dances and crafts related to the book. The best part is that the first 5 families to attend the reading will get their own copy of the book!
Springfield Free Public Library
66 Mountain Ave., Springfield, NJ 07081
10. Zumbini Demo Class
Tuesday, February 6, 2018 | 10:30AM to 11:15AM
Get your kids moving with Zumbini classes! Sing and dance with your 0 to 4-year-olds which will not only strengthen your bond, but help with your child’s social, cognitive, emotional, and motor skills. Spots are limited so visit their website to register.
Westampton Martial Arts
897 Rancocas Rd., Westampton Township, NJ 08060
11. Family Zumba Workout
Wednesday, February 7, 2018 | 6:00PM to 7:00PM
The whole family can participate in New Day FSC’s fun workout filled with Latin dancing. Anyone is welcome to come and the workout is great for all fitness levels. To sign your family up for this workout, call 609-652-0230.
New Day FSC
622-624 South New York Rd., Galloway, NJ 08205
12. Lacrosse Clinic
Wednesday, February 7, 2018 | 6:00PM to 7:30PM
If your kids want to try a non-traditional sport, why not give lacrosse a go? Jersey City Lacrosse is hosting an introductory clinic for boys and girls from Kindergarten to Grade 8. All equipment is provided. For more information and to register for the clinic, call 201-547-5003.
Rafael Cordero No. 37
158 Erie St., Jersey City, NJ 07302
13. Free First Thursday
Thursday, February 8, 2018 | 5:00PM
The Montclair Museum is kicking off a new spring exhibition, Kay WalkingStick: An American Artist. Everyone gets free general admission into the museum on this night – and what’s more artsy than a Draw-Along Workshop for all ages that includes a clothed model, an open studio just for teens, and more? Full-service bar also available for adults.
Montclair Art Museum
3 S. Mountain Ave., Montclair, NJ 07042
D Fitness Studio. Via
14. Kid’s Yoga Class
Thursday, February 8, 2018 | 4:30PM
For kids ages 3 to 5, learning proper ways to stretch can lead to better coordination. This free yoga class at D Fitness Studio will have your kids soaking up messages of peace, compassion, and gratitude as they learn different yoga positions from a certified children’s yoga instructor.
D Fitness Studio
760 Mantoloking Rd., Brick Township, NJ 08723
The Messy Artist. Via
15. A Messy Morning with Donna
Thursday, February 8, 2018 | 10:30AM to 11:00AM
We’d be lying if we said we weren’t most excited about our kids making a mess somewhere else besides at home. Besides that, your kids ages 1 and a half years old to 5 years old are invited to have a “messy” morning with owner Donna Bernstein at The Messy Artist – toys and story time included!
The Messy Artist
356 State Route 10, East Hanover, NJ 07936
16. Interactive Spanish Immersion Class
Friday, February 9, 2018 | 9:30AM to 10:5AM
Do you want your kids to learn Spanish as a second or third language? This free class will immerse your whole family in the language with arts and crafts, story time, and sensory learning activities at Colorin Spanish Program. This Mommy and Me class is designed for babies and toddlers up to 29 months old. For more information, email colorinspanishprogram@gmail.com.
Colorin Spanish Program
1 Main St., Suite 101-102, Eatontown, NJ 07724
17. Wondrous Winter Walk
Friday, February 9, 2018 | 10:00AM to 11:30AM
It’s a winter wonderland and now your kids will be able to take in the serenity of the season while on a guided tour of the Highlands. A Monmouth County Park System Naturalist will lead this winter walk through the Hartshorne Woods Park; meet at the Rocky Point section of the Highlands.
Hartshorne Woods Park
1402 Portland Rd., Highlands, NJ 07732
18. SweetART Market: Valentine Gift Market*
Friday, February 9 and Saturday, February 10, 2018 | Friday 5:00PM to 8:00PM, Saturday 9:00AM to 5:00PM
The SweetART Market: Valentine Gift Market is the perfect place to get a gift for your sweetheart. Local artisans will be selling ceramics, jewelry, sweet treats, and so much more.
Princeton Shopping Center
301 N Harrison St, Princeton, New Jersey 08540
19. Goal Setting and Focus Workshop
Saturday, February 10, 2018 | 11:00AM to 12:00PM
Do you want your kids to learn how to accomplish their goals in a fun learning setting? At this workshop hosted by Everson’s Kids Karate, your kids ages 5 to 12 will learn how to break a real wooden board with a martial arts technique – and in doing so, learn the importance of education, the ability to focus, and proper decision-making skills. Space is limited for this free event so register online here.
Everson’s Karate and Cardio Kickboxing
2330 Rt. 33 Suite 102, Robbinsville, NJ 08691
20. Hearts On Fire, Palmer Square On Ice*
Saturday, February 10, 2018 | 12:00PM to 3:00PM
Come see Palmer Square’s beautiful forestry transformed into an icy wonderland. Gaze at plenty of whimsical sculptures, enjoy a cup of hot chocolate, or warm yourself up by visiting all the shops in the square. This event is welcome for all ages and is completely free, so don’t hesitate to take part in all the winter fun.
Palmer Square
40 Nassau Street, Princeton, NJ 08542
21. Seashore Scientist
Saturday, February 10, 2018 | 1:00PM to 2:00PM
Are you and your kids interested in how the ocean works? At Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park, your whole family can learn all the different aspects of oceanography. During this event, there are interactive discussions and hands-on experiments so that you can learn about everything under the sea.
Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park
221 Ocean Avenue North, Long Branch, NJ 07740
22. George Washington’s Birthday Party*
Saturday, February 10, 2018 | 2:00PM to 4:00PM
Arguably the most loved and respected president in history will be celebrated on his birthday. Your family will have the opportunity to meet the legend, played by Washington Crossing’s own John Godzieba, and learn out about his role in the Crossing of the Delaware. Of course, there will be George Washington themed games, a cherry pie eating contest, as well as make your own presidential crafts. The only way to end a presidential day is with, what else, birthday cake.
Burlington County Historical Society
457 High St, Burlington, New Jersey 08016
23. Valentine’s Craft
Saturday, February 10, 2018 | 10:00AM to 2:00PM
A token for your thoughts this Valentine’s Day? Kids of all ages can come to the New Jersey State Museum to create a one-of-a-kind token to show their loved ones how much they mean to them. Kids can also make heart-shaped cards, Cupid arrows formed from pipe cleaners with custom messages, Cheerios heart bird feeders, and much more. The program will take place in the museum’s Imagination Studio on the lower level.
New Jersey State Museum
205 West State St., Trenton, NJ
24. 3rd Annual Asbury Park Mardi Gras*
Saturday, February 10, 2018 | 1:00PM to 5:00PM
Mardi Gras at Asbury Park is back for another year full of great events for the whole family. Join plenty of event goers for free family fun that includes: mask making, face painting, plenty of themed music, and then the Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball at night.
Downtown, Asbury Park
600 Cookman Ave, Asbury Park, New Jersey 07712
25. Aindrila’s Kids Master Class
Saturday, February 10, 2018 | 7:00PM to 9:00PM
Dance like Bollywood movie stars and shimmy to upbeat songs while improving your flexibility and coordination. Aindrila’s Bollywood Fusion class will keep your kids moving for one hour, and it is set right before bedtime! Kids ages 3 to 6 years old can attend the Tiny Tots Class at 7:00PM while kids ages 6 to 10 years old can attend the Junior Kids Class at 8:00PM. For more information, visit adafit.com or email info@adafit.com.
Aindrila’s Da-Fit Studio
563 Inman Ave., Edison, NJ 07067
26. Children’s Dental Health Fair*
Sunday, February 11, 2018 | 1:00PM to 3:00PM
Did you know February is Children’s Dental Health Month? If you didn’t, Monmouth Mall and Monmouth Ocean County Dental Society have your covered. Visit the mall on Sunday, February 11th from 1pm to 3pm for information, prizes, gifts, and more.
Monmouth Mall – Town Square
Route 35 & 36, Eatontown, NJ 07724
27. PJ Character Breakfast
Sunday, February 11, 2018 | 10:00AM
Kids, get out your comfiest jammies because you’re in for a chill Sunday morning with your favorite cartoon characters – Poppy Troll, Peppa Pig, Paw Patrol Chase, and more will be at the Solomon Schechter Day School of Greater Monmouth County. Join in a character parade, play games, listen to music, and more. For more information and to register for the event, contact Linda Glickstein at 732-431-5525 or email linda@schechtergmc.com.
Solomon Schechter Day School of Greater Monmouth County
22 School Road East, Marlboro, NJ 07746
28. Asbury Park Valentine’s Market & Brunch*
Sunday, February 11, 2018 | 12:00PM to 5:00PM
While you are out shopping for your “boo’s” perfect Valentine’s Day gift, your kids can participate in crafts and workshops. The Asbury Park Bazaar’s Valentine’s Market and Brunch is not only a one-stop shop for all your Valentine’s Day needs, but also fun for the kids, too.
Asbury Park Conventional Hall
1300 Ocean Ave., Asbury Park, NJ 07712
29. Children’s Museum Special Events*
Sunday, February 11, 2018 | 1:00PM to 4:00PM
One of the most unique and multicultural celebrations around is at Children’s Museum. This special “around the world” event will include music and dance. Parents and/or caregivers are expected to stay with children during the museum visit. Please use discretion in bringing very young children, as the museum is NOT baby-proof (some craft items are small and could present a choking hazard).
Children’s Museum of Somerset County
120 Finderne Avenue, Bridgewater, NJ
30. South Orange Symphony Free Family Concert*
Sunday, February 11, 2018 | 3:00PM to 5:00PM
The one and only South Orange Symphony is hosting a free family-oriented concert of a lifetime. To celebrate Presidents’ Day, members of the South Orange Middle School Chorus will perform patriotic tunes with orchestral accompaniment. Other lively selections by Sousa, Chabrier, and Haydn are on the program. During intermission, a fantastic musical instrument petting zoo will be open for exploration, sponsored by Finlay + Gage Strings and Dillon Music. Light refreshments will be offered at the reception immediately following the concert.
South Orange Middle School
70 N Ridgewood Rd, South Orange, NJ 07079
31. Winter Beach Walk*
Monday, February 12, 2018 | 12:00PM to 1:30PM
Who says the beach is only for the summertime? On the contrary, the winter months are some of the best times to go shell collecting along with a free guided walk. A Park System Naturalist joins the fun as your family enjoys collecting and identifying some of the ocean’s natural treasures. Meetup is on the beach, make sure everyone dresses warmly, and bring along something to carry shells in.
Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area
391 3rd Ave, Manasquan, New Jersey 08736
32. Year of the Dog Event – Holmdel*
Monday, February 12, 2018 | 4:15PM to 5:00PM
Children in grades K through 3 along with their families can enjoy this free cultural event. This Chinese New Year rings in with the Year of the Dog event, filled with plenty to see and experience; your little one will even have the chance to create a paper spring dog.
Holmdel LIbrary
101 Crawfords Corner Road, Holmdel, NJ
New Day FSC. Via
33. LEGO Night
Tuesday, February 13, 2018 | 6:00PM to 7:00PM
Get the whole family together and enjoy that LEGO life. New Day FSC has all the LEGOs your family needs to be inspired and to build to your heart’s content. The event is open to all Atlantic County residents. To register, visit Eventbrite.com.
New Day FSC
622-624 South New York Rd., Galloway, NJ 08205
34. STEAM Education
Thursday, February 15, 2018 | 6:00PM to 8:00PM
Who knew an old-fashioned diner could be the prime setting for a modern-day teaching concept? The Elisabeth Morrow School will host a STEAM event for kids of all ages at Brownstone Pancake Factory in Edgewater – educational activities and pancakes all day for the win! And did we mention – kids get free pancakes just for participating! Space is limited so make sure to RSVP by emailing admissions@elisabethmorrow.org.
Brownstone Pancake Factory
860 River Rd., Edgewater, NJ
35. Discover History Center Grand Opening*
Saturday, February 17 and Sunday 18, 2018 | Saturday and Sunday 10:00AM to 5:00PM
The fantastic Washington Association of New Jersey will host their grand opening of the Discover History Center. This fresh new venue will bring in new exhibits at the Washington’s Headquarters museum with something to offer everyone. It also has interactive activities for children, videos, artifacts, and more. The event will feature special activities all weekend, and the Ford Mansion (Washington’s headquarters) will be open for visitation.
Morristown National Historical Park
30 Washington Pl, Morristown, New Jersey 07960
36. Knights of Columbus Free Throw Competition
Sunday, February 18, 2018 | 7:00PM to 10:00PM
Open to all boys and girls between the ages of 9 and 14, these kids can step up to the free throw line and see how far they go! There will be a winner for each gender in each age group along with a chance to compete in the Knights of Columbus’s District Championship! All entrants must bring a birth certificate to the competition. For more information or to register for the event, contact Giuseppe Barone at 551-206-2502 or giuseppecbarone@gmail.com.
St. Anne School
1-30 Summit Ave., Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
37. State Theatre Family Day*
Monday, February 19, 2018 | 10:00AM to 3:00PM
Only the State Theatre in New Jersey’ can celebrate the importance of family at their annual Family Day festival. This ultimate bonding experience features performances, workshops, and hands-on activities, plus costumed characters, face painting, balloon animals, games, a photo booth, food, and more. The day-long festival spreads across to other venues in the area showing visitors how vibrant downtown New Brunswick is.
Downtown New Brunswick
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
38. Gung Hay Fat Choy*
Tuesday, February 20, 2018 | 10:30AM to 11:30AM
It is finally the start of the new Chinese New Year, and it is the lucky Year of the Dog. This event will feature storytime, songs, and crafts celebrating the Lunar New Year.
Toms River Branch Ocean County Library
101 Washington St, Toms River, NJ 08753
Bogota Public Library. Via
39. “My Little Pony” Movie
Thursday, February 22, 2018 | 6:00PM to 7:40PM
Watch Twilight Sparkle and other members of the Mane 6 on the big screen at Bogota Public Library as they band together on an epic journey to save Ponyville from a dark force. This free showing of My Little Pony the movie (2017) will be sure to captivate your little ones for a solid 1 hour and 44 minutes – and that’s a solid gold mom-win!
Bogota Public Library
375 Larch Ave., Bogota, NJ 07603
40. Tunes & Talk Sensory Friendly Concert*
Friday, February 23, 2018 | 10:30AM to 11:30AM
The most unique interactive and sensory concert, Tunes & Talk is finally here. This concert is made for all those with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families and caregivers.
The Arc of Union County
70 Diamond Road, Springfield, NJ
Event is free, however, reservations are required. Please contact Ellen de Havilland at edehavilland@arcunion.org
41. Marvelous Mardi Gras Crafts*
Friday, February 23, 2018 | 2:00PM to 5:00PM
Celebrate Mardi Gras at the Brick Branch Library. Attendees will have a chance to participate in a scavenger hunt and make crafts.
Brick Branch Library
301 Chambers Bridge Rd, Brick, NJ 08723
42. Spring Holiday Craft for Holi and Purim*
Friday, February 23, 2018 | 4:00PM to 5:00PM
Stop by the Livingston Library to celebrate the Hindu spring festival called Holin with colorful crafts. Little known fact, Holi is also commonly known as the “Festival of Colours”.
Livingston Library – Program Room
10 Robert H Harp Dr, Livingston, NJ 07039
43. Bloomingdale 100th Anniversary*
Saturday, February 23, 2018 | 2:00PM to 4:00PM
The Centennial Celebration of the year takes place in Bloomingdale, and your family will not want to miss out. This event comes loaded with an army of food trucks, horse & carriage rides, an open ice skating rink, and historical exhibits. There will also be a DJ, local community performers, hot cocoa, and s’mores pit.
Sloan Park
Bloomingdale, NJ 07403
44. Jersey City Spring Sports Expo*
Sunday, February 24, 2018 | 9:00AM to 2:00PM
Come join us at the Jersey City Armory and take part in clinics offering various spring sports like baseball, soccer, hockey, lacrosse, tennis, and more. This event is extremely popular and will fill up to capacity, so make sure you send your RSVP email to ecupo@jcnj.org.
Jersey City Armory
678 Montgomery St, Jersey City, NJ
45. North Beach Winter Sweep in Asbury Park / Beach Sweep and Happy Hour*
Saturday, February 24, 2018 | 1:00PM to 5:00PM
All beach and nature lovers are asked to volunteer to help keep our state’s beaches as pretty as they have always been. All ages are welcome and must come with gloves, hard-soled shoes, and dressed appropriately. After a busy day, there will be fantastic happy hour at Porta until 5PM with great drink deals for people that took part in the Beach Sweep.
Asbury Park North Beach (By dirt lot near Deal Lake)
Asbury Park, NJ
Monmouth County Park Hike. via
46. Lantern-Lit Night Hike
Saturday, February 24, 2018 | 7:00PM to 8:00PM
Not your average walk in the park when you join a Monmouth County Park System Naturalist for a lantern-lit, guided tour of Freneau Woods Park at night. They will talk about the sights, sounds, and smells of the area around. Appropriate for kids ages 8 and older. Meet by the old monastery in the parking lot, bring a flashlight, and don’t forget to dress for the weather.
Freneau Woods Park
360 Monastary Lane, Aberdeen Township, NJ 07747
47. Dr. Seuss Party
Sunday, February 25, 2018 | 9:30AM to 11:30AM
Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss! Celebrate America’s favorite kid’s book author with a roller-skating party at Deptford Skating Center. Free admission includes free skate, a Dr. Seuss book reading, and birthday cake.
Deptford Skating Center
510 Deptford Ave., Westville, NJ 08093
48. Camp Riverbend Open House: Wacky Winter Olympics*
Sunday, February 25, 2018 | 10:00AM to 12:00PM
Do your children dream of being the in the Olympics? If so, then Camp Riverbend Open House: Wacky Winter Olympics is the place for them. This event will feature games, crafts, cooking, and more. Plus, attendees will get a chance to meet and speak to Riverbend counselors and tour the campgrounds.
Camp Riverbend
116 Hillcrest Rd., Warren Township, NJ 07059
Free but RSVP is required, please email RSVP@campriverbend.com
49. Jersey Shore Toy Show*
Sunday, February 25, 2018 | 10:00AM to 5:00PM
If you and your family are heading down to the Jersey Shore, why not make a pit stop at the Jersey Shore Toy Show? The show will feature over 75 tables of vintage and modern toys as well as provide another great day of family entertainment.
South Wall Fire Company Banquet Hall
2605 Atlantic Ave, Manasquan, New Jersey 08736
50. Mommy and Me Class
Tuesday, February 27, 2018 | 10:00AM
Do you want to get active and creative with your child? Starting on February 27, St. John’s Academy will offer four weeks of free Mommy and Me classes. Kids ages 2 and a half years old to 5 years old can join in on all the fun with games, crafts, and movements. There will also be a nut-free snack provided. For more information or to sign up for the class, call 201-664-6364.
St. John’s Academy
460 Hillsdale Ave., Hillsdale, NJ 07642
