Check out the mesmerizing ice carvings at the Founders Philly Freeze Out. Photo courtesy of the Manayunk Development Corporation
Culturefest!, Fire and Ice Festival, Founders Philly Freeze Out, and More Fun Things To Do in Philly this Weekend
Kids enjoy sledding on a hill off Kelly Drive. Photo courtesy of Philadelphia Parks and Recreation
Best Sledding Spots Near Philadelphia for Kids
A winter oasis, Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest houses a skating rink overlooking the Delaware River, a ski chalet-style lodge and more. Photo by Danielle Smith
Ultimate Winter Bucket List: 40 Best Things to Do with Kids in Philly
Kids under 18 are always free at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Photo by Liz Baill
100 Free Things To Do in Philly with Kids
Playing in the snow: a favorite winter activity for Philly kids
GUIDE
Philly Winter Vacation Guide: Best Getaways and Activities for Families
Celebrate winter at Peddler's Village with live fire artistry and ice carving demonstrations. Photo courtesy of Peddler's Village
Top Free Things To Do with Kids in Philly in January 2026, According to MP Editors
Learn all about fire safety and the history of firefighters in Philly at the Fireman's Hall Museum.Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
15 Free Things To Do Indoors in Philadelphia: Free Places To Play Indoors on Cold and Rainy Days
Kids can zoom down the slide and, of course, launch scarves at Kith + Kin. Photo courtesy of Kith + Kin
Best Kids Indoor Playgrounds & Play Spaces in Philadelphia
Kids 18 and under are always free at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Photo by Liz Baill @creativishmom
Free Museums and Free Museum Days in Philly
Check out the amazing WildWorks Ropes Course at the entrance to the Philadelphia Zoo.Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
Ultimate Pennsylvania Bucket List: 35 Things To Do With Kids in PA
Pony rides always bring out smiles at Linvilla Orchards. Photo courtesy of the orchard
Farms with Animals and Petting Zoos near Philadelphia that are Perfect for Preschoolers
School Calendars 2025-2026: Important Dates for Philadelphia School District
Visit the African American Museum in Philadelphia (AAMP), located in the heart of Old City.
Visiting Historic Philadelphia: Top Things To Do in the Historic District with Kids
Take in 300 years of history on Elfreth's Alley. Photo courtesy of the museum
3 Days in Philadelphia with Kids: Ultimate Itinerary by a Local Mom
Phildephia's Magic Gardens are covered by magical mosaics and found objects. Photo by Liz Baill @creativishmom
Best Philly Tours for Kids: Art Hunts, Food Tours, Ghost Tours, and More
Take a bikde ride through Doylestown. Photo by Rose Gordon Sala
9 Walkable Neighborhoods near Philly for Family Outings
Ricketts Glen State Park is a family-friendly destination with awesome activities for all ages. Photo of Ricketts Glen by the author
Amazing Budget Weekend Getaways for Philly Families
Build birthday memories brick by brick at LEGOLAND. Photo courtesy of LEGOLAND
Best Indoor Birthday Parties for Kids in Philly
Try a whiz-wit at Tony Luke's, a reliable Philly cheesesteak spot with multiple locations. Photo courtesy of J. Varney for GPTMC
11 Kid-Friendly Philly Cheesesteak Spots
Challenge the rope bridge and zip line at Elmwood Park Zoo. Photo courtesy of the zoo
100 Things To Do in Philly with Kids Before They Grow Up
GUIDE
Guide to Classes for Kids in Philadelphia
Put your skills to the test on the obstacle course at Urban Air. Photo courtesy of Urban Air
Extreme Sports and More Thrilling Activities for Kids in Philly: Go Karts, Axe Throwing, and More!
Turn your eye of the tiger into the eye of an artist at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Visiting the Philadelphia Museum of Art with Kids: Creative Family Time at the Art Museum
Six Flag Great Adventure brings big-time thrills and is one of our favorite amusement parks in New Jersey.
Great Theme Parks and Amusement Parks Near New Jersey
Blue Cross RiverRink is open for Summerfest in the warmer months and Winterfest in the colder months. Photo courtesy of J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
Top Attractions in Philadelphia: Best Things to See and Do with Kids
Parents eat while kids climb and slide at Craft Hall.
12 Philly Restaurants Where Kids Can Play While Parents Eat
Take a hike: Family getaways are a great opportunity to reconnect with nature.
GUIDE
Philly Family Day Trips and Weekend Getaways
No one walks the plank, but everyone has fun with with Scallywag’s Pirate Adventures in Erie. Photo courtesy of Scallywag's Pirate Adventures.
10 PA Weekend Getaways for Families

Best Things To Do with Kids in New Jersey in February 2026, From to MP Editors

Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company celebrates Lunar New Year with a performance in Newark this month. Photo courtesy of the dance company
Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company celebrates Lunar New Year with a performance in Newark this month. Photo courtesy of the dance company
1/31/25 - By Laurie Rein

Whether sending valentines or planning a Lunar New Year celebration—there is plenty to love about February!

February in New Jersey is all heart with lots of great Valentine's Day festivities, including shopping and entertainment at Asbury Park's Valentine's Bazaar. Or, experience an old-fashioned Valentine's Day at Historic Walnford. Plus, stay toasty at indoor festivals, including the Mac & Cheese Mayhem Festival and American Dream's Lunar New Year Spectacular.

We’re adding more events to our Family Activity Calendar every day, so don’t forget to check it frequently, and be sure to bookmark our top picks for February's winter break. We've got plenty of picks for the long school vacation. 

My Top 5 Events this Month, At-a-Glance:

Want even more fun things to do this weekend? Our New Jersey Events Calendar is packed with great family activities every day of the week—and you can filter by age, location, or even free events!

Not on our newsletter list yet? Subscribe for free and get the best local family fun sent straight to your inbox. Already subscribed? Share it with a friend and start planning your weekend together!

OUR LATEST VIDEOS

Top Things To Do in New Jersey With Kids this February

Winter on the Farm at Fosterfields Living Historical Farm

Morristown
Saturday, February 7-Sunday, February 8, 2026
Winter doesn’t halt activity on the farm! Come to Fosterfields for a winter’s day on the farm. Learn how to cut and harvest ice, help the staff saw wood, pet the cows, and see an outdoor cooking demonstration. READ MORE

Makerspace: Chocolate Walk Edition at METC

Madison
Saturday, February 7, 2026
Whether you are looking for a kid-friendly project or for something creative to do after spending time at the museum, Makerspace is the place to be. This month, special chocolate-themed activities like origami chocolate boxes, making valentines, and more are available in the Education Annex for the Rose City Chocolate Walk. READ MORE

The New Jersey Reptile Show

Port Monmouth
Sunday, February 8, 2026
The New Jersey Reptile Show is a family-friendly, educational, and fun-filled reptile event where guests can explore the magnificent animals. The reptile-curious can explore the amazing world of reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, and exotic animals. Top exotic pet shops, licensed breeders, trusted vendors, and animal care professionals are on-site.  READ MORE

My Little Man & Me: Valentine’s Day Party

Union
Saturday, February 14, 2026
Liberty Hall Museum invites you to get ready for Valentine’s Day with your little man. Moms, grandmas, and aunts are invited to bring their sons, grandsons, and nephews for a fun outing. READ MORE

Historical Valentines at Historic Walnford

Freehold – FREE
Saturday, February 14, 2026
Historical Walnford hosts this creative and educational workshop. Take a look at valentines from the 18th and 19th centuries, and study how penmanship has changed over the years. Then, create a valentine of your own or write a letter to a friend using historically inspired materials. READ MORE

Popstar Sing-a-Long at Casino Pier Arcade

Seaside Heights– FREE
Saturday, February 14, 2026
Love is in the air- and on the dance floor. Join Casino Pier Arcade for a Valentine's event featuring a K-Pop sing-along, heart-shaped pizzas, games, and nonstop fun. READ MORE

February Festivities at Trailside

Mountainside
Saturday, February 14, 2026
The Union County Trailside & Nature Center hosts fun February festivities including a scavenger hunt, maple sugaring crafts, and more. READ MORE

Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company Celebrates Lunar New Year

Newark
Saturday, February 14-Sunday, February 15, 2026
Lunar New Year: Year of the Horse is a spectacular experience with talented dancers and musicians evoking the passion and energy of the horse in all its splendor. Usher in an auspicious Lunar New Year surrounded by the warmth of community, the joy of cultural celebration, and the spirit of renewal. READ MORE

Asbury Park Valentine's Bazaar 2026

Asbury Park – FREE
Saturday, February 14-Sunday, February 15, 2026
Swing by Asbury Park Convention Hall for a day filled with love, fun, and shopping. Discover unique gifts for a special someone or treat yourself to something special. With a variety of vendors offering handmade crafts, artisanal goods, and delicious treats, plus live music, kids' activities and workshops, there's something for everyone to enjoy. READ MORE

2026 Lunar New Year Spectacular at American Dream

East Rutherford – FREE
Saturday, February 15, 2026
Welcome the Year of the Horse at American Dream's New Year Spectacular. Experience thundering lion dances, electrifying dances, and mesmerizing performances ranging from top caliber artists to Kung Fu demonstrations. READ MORE

Winter Beach Blast at the Ocean County Mall

Toms River – FREE
Saturday, February 21, 2026
Get a taste of summer in the winter at Ocean County Mall. The summery fun includes crafts, giant Twister, dancing, and more.  READ MORE

Lunar New Year at Bridgewater Commons

Bridgewater – FREE
Saturday, February 21-Sunday, February 22, 2026
Celebrate the Lunar New Year with a traditional Asian performance and dragon dance accompanied by the music of beating of drums, cymbals, and gong instruments, believed to bring good luck and fortune. READ MORE

The Jersey Shore Winter Comic Book Show

Toms River
Sunday, February 22, 2026
The Jersey Shore Comic Book Show returns with its Cabin Fever edition, celebrating comics, cards, toys, and crafts. Meet artists, writers, and costume groups. READ MORE

New Jersey Home & Garden Show at New Jersey Convention Center

Edison
Friday, February 27-Sunday, March 1, 2026
Kids can play and learn at the New Jersey Home & Garden Show, featuring make-and-take children's workshops, balloon animals, an escape room, and more. Parents can check out products from more than 175 contractors, interior designers, and landscapers. READ MORE

Lunar New Year Celebration at the Ramsey Public Library

Ramsey – FREE
Saturday, February 28, 2026
Welcome the Year of the Horse with cultural performances, activities, and light refreshments. Enjoy a variety of traditional cultural performances, plus arts, crafts, riddles, and games. READ MORE

Mac & Cheese Mayhem Festival at Morristown Armory

Morristown
Saturday, February 28, 2026
Mac and cheese lovers rejoice! Experience gourmet, chef-inspired twists on your childhood favorites in a comfort-food-filled day featuring DJ music, vendors, and kids' activities. READ MORE

Downtown Cranford Fire & Ice

Cranford – FREE
Saturday, February 28, 2026
Stop by Downtown Cranford to watch professional ice carvers work their magic. While you're there, be sure to purchase wings and vote for your favorite to be crowned King of the Wing. Round out the fun with face painting, hot chocolate, and s'mores. READ MORE

More Things To Do in New Jersey in Winter

NJ Winter Vacation Guide: Best Getaways and Activities for Families

All the best events and activities this winter in New Jersey! READ MORE

The Best VR Arcades in New Jersey for Kids

These are NJ's best virtual-reality experiences. READ MORE

24 Best Winter Day Trips from New Jersey for Families

Seasonal hibernation isn't an option, so check out these NJ winter day trip destinations. READ MORE

25 Cool Things To Do on February Winter Break in New Jersey

Find plenty of fun February break activities on our action-packed list. READ MORE

New Jersey Fun For Kids at Home

40 Outdoor Activities for Kids this Winter

These activities will have kids begging to play outside this winter! READ MORE

30 Exercise Games and Indoor Activities to Get Kids Moving

These easy indoor exercise ideas get everyone moving, laughing, and tired out. READ MORE

Crafts for Kids: 100 Awesome Art Projects

Bookmark this blockbuster list of arts and crafts and never run out of ideas for creative play. READ MORE

Places featured in this article:

About the Author

Laurie Rein
Laurie Rein is passionate about finding fun (especially free!) activities for her twin daughters. Before joining Mommy Poppins New Jersey, Laurie worked in the television industry, with roles as an NBC page, copywriter, affiliate liaison for The Rosie O'Donnell Show, and research manager for CBS.
Recent Articles By Laurie Rein:
Read more articles by Laurie Rein.