Pumpkins, Wine & Fall Fun: Stafford Township’s 2026 Festival Is Calling!

There’s something about fall in New Jersey that makes you want to get outside, enjoy the beautiful weather, and spend a little time with family and friends. Add pumpkins, local vendors, live music, and a wine festival, and you have yourself a pretty fun weekend!

If you're looking for something to do in Stafford Township this October, you’ll want to check out the 19th Annual Stafford Fall Harvest & Wine Festival at Manahawkin Lake Park. It’s a weekend filled with fall fun, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

A Weekend Full of Fall Fun in Stafford Township

I love a good local festival, especially when it brings the community together. This event is a great opportunity to get outside, enjoy some entertainment, check out craft vendors, and soak up the fall atmosphere right here in Ocean County.

The 19th Annual Fall Harvest & Wine Festival takes place on Saturday, October 10th, and Sunday, October 11th, 2026, at Manahawkin Lake Park and Heritage Park in Stafford Township.

Both days run from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., giving you plenty of time to make a day of it.

And if you love a little fall decorating, pumpkins, and local shopping, Saturday’s lineup has plenty to offer!

Saturday, October 10th: Pumpkins, Vendors, and a Halloween Parade

Saturday is packed with activities for the whole family. You can enjoy the fall atmosphere while checking out the different activities and entertainment planned throughout the day.

Here’s what you can look forward to:

• Petting Zoo

• Craft Vendors

• Food Vendors

• Pumpkin Picking

• Scarecrow Making

• Costume Contest

• Halloween Parade at 12 p.m.

• Wine Festival at Heritage Park

**The Halloween parade is scheduled for noon, with participants lining up at the Stafford Firehouse at 11:30 a.m. So if you’re planning to take part, make sure you get there in time!

And, of course, there will be live entertainment throughout the day.

Whether you’re coming out with the kids, meeting up with friends, or just looking for something fun to do on a beautiful fall afternoon, Saturday has plenty happening.

Sunday, October 11th: More Music, Vendors, and Wine

The fall fun continues on Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Sunday’s schedule includes:

• Wine Festival at Heritage Park

• Craft Vendors

• Food Vendors

• Music at Manahawkin Lake Park

You can browse the craft vendors, grab something to eat, and enjoy the music while spending time in Stafford Township.

Sounds like a nice way to spend a Sunday afternoon!

Make It a Fall Weekend in Stafford Township

Fall festivals like this are a great reminder of how much there is to enjoy right here in our local communities. You don't have to travel far to find a fun afternoon with family, friends, food, music, and a little bit of fall magic.

Keep Reading: One of America's Top 3 Sunflower Festivals is in New Jersey

So, if you're looking for something to add to your October calendar, the 19th Annual Stafford Fall Harvest & Wine Festival is worth checking out.