Scarecrows hanging out in the garden, sculptures poised in the meadows, harvest moon hayrides winding through the fields, horrifying historic happenings, pumpkin picking and petting zoos are all part of the fall fun in Morris County this year.
As the weather cools and the trees turn vibrant this fall, there is no better time to visit this bucolic New Jersey county. Following is a sampling of fall events and destinations:
Art marries nature at The Living Sculpture, an art installation at Willowwood Arboretum in Chester. On loan from the Seward Johnson Atelier, the sculptures dot the landscape, seamlessly staged with the trees, meadows and gardens on the grounds of this beautiful arboretum. Photos courtesy of the Morris County Park Commission
Willowwood Arboretum
Art marries nature at The Living Sculpture, an art installation at Willowwood Arboretum in Chester. On loan from the Seward Johnson Atelier, the sculptures dot trees, meadows and gardens on the grounds of this beautiful arboretum.
Johnson, an artist and philanthropist, created more than 450 life-sized or large-scale realistic bronze sculptures depicting people pursuing ordinary daily activities. The sculptures have been exhibited around the world. Reservations are required. A $10 donation fee is suggested. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the exhibit runs until Nov. 15.
Fosterfields Living Historical Farm
Start your experience of the 200-acre farm with a wagon ride around the picturesque property, which is a preserved open space in a rural setting of rolling hills just outside of Morristown. Watch apples being pressed into cider and take your turn with the old-fashioned screw press. Visit the Jersey cows, piglets, goats and other farm animals. Visitors also can see a corn cracking demonstration and then feed the chickens.
Guests are invited to tour the property’s historic buildings, including the 1915 farmhouse, carriage house and original barns, along with The Willows 1854 mansion. Guided tours of the mansion are offered daily at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Visitors also can check out Well Played, an exhibit about childhood 100-plus years ago, and the Transportation Exhibit, which features a climb-on Model T truck and restored antique vehicles that were driven around town in the 1920s. Admission is $15 and includes all activities. Children 2 and under are free.
For a twist on the traditional hayride, head over to Alstede Farms, located less than 1 mile south of Chester’s charming downtown, for its Harvest Moon Hayrides on Nov. 3. Photo courtesy of Alstede Farms
Alstede Farms
The hayride is only part of the fun. Find your way through a nighttime corn maze, pick your own pumpkin and sway to the live entertainment, while warming up by the campfire. Sip freshly pressed cider and sample apple cider donut ice cream, pumpkin ice cream and other seasonal snacks.
Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey
For a little cultural diversion, head to the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey in Madison, which is staging “A Man for All Seasons” through Nov. 5. The play centers on Sir Thomas More and the story of his clash with Henry VIII over the king’s desire to divorce Catherine of Aragon in defiance of the Catholic Church and the pope. Thematically rich, stuffed with matters of import, the play is billed as being funny, moving and a compelling historical drama. Tickets range from $34 to $65.
Morristown Classic Savor and Stroll
On Nov. 18, immerse yourself in Morristown’s history while sampling fine fare from various restaurants throughout this lovely, walkable town. The annual Classic Savor and Stroll features a tour guide serving up fun facts about Morristown and its rich history, while guiding guests to some of the town’s best restaurants. Meet at the corner of Washington Street and Schuyler Place at 1:20 p.m. The tour runs from 1:30 to 4 p.m.
Denville Holiday Open House
On Nov. 24, Downtown Denville brings back its annual Holiday Open House. Enjoy ice skating on Broadway and special promotions at the many boutique shops located in Denville’s quaint downtown, along with warming stations, Santa hats and more. Visitors also will find a diverse array of award-winning restaurants to enjoy a festive and tasty holiday meal.
Madison Holiday Arts Festival
The Madison Holiday Arts Festival, a town-wide event that happens every year on Thanksgiving weekend, will again feature live music at various locations.
The main event takes place on Nov. 25 from 7 to 10 p.m. at The Madison Community Arts Center, where the popular afterparty is staged, featuring three talented Madison bands — Nick Amling & the Lifeline, Progress Avenue and Nick Kits & Gavin McGinn. Advance admission is $10; $15 at the door.
‘70s vs 80s: The Battle of the Decades
On Nov. 25, the Mayo Performing Arts Center stages “70s vs 80s: The Battle of the Decades.” Featuring The Discoteks vs. 80’s Revolution, this playful production pits two bands and two decades against each other, but promises to be one big party. The audience decides which decade has the best music.
The Discoteks are a crowd favorite dance band performing all the hits of the ‘70s disco and Motown. With more than 35 years of performing experience, The Discoteks have traveled the country, delivering heart-pounding dance performances.
The 80’s Revolution, billed as the No. 1 party show band in America, transports audiences back to an era filled with bright neon colors, innovative and memorable fashion, iconic movie classics — and some of the best music in history. 80’s Revolution covers favorites from Madonna, Journey, Michael Jackson, Pat Benatar, Def Leppard and others.
Backer Farm in Mendham
While wandering around Morris County, be sure to stop at Backer Farm in Mendham to pick up some of the freshest locally grown produce, eggs, meats and baked goods around.
The beautiful 40-acre family farm, located at 32 Ironia Road, is run by a fourth-generation farming/ranching husband and wife duo, who are committed to sustainable farming. All products are naturally grown, including brown eggs; pasture-raised, nitrate-free beef; chicken; pork; and honey. The farm is open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Lake Hopatcong
Another must-visit Morris County destination is Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey’s largest lake, situated in Hopatcong State Park. Anglers find fun here all year long. Families can enjoy the spacious picnic area with grills, volleyball and basketball courts and a playground, all surrounded by beautiful fall foliage.
With a wide variety of cuisine to choose from, lakeside dining alone on Lake Hopatcong makes it worth the trip. Lake Hopatcong is one of the only lakes in the state that boasts lakefront restaurants that are accessible by boat. Visit lakehopatcong.com.
From spooks to sculptures, spending time in Morris County this fall is a sure bet for a wonderful experience.
For more information about upcoming Morris County events and attractions, visit morristourism.org.
— Nancy Parello
