14 Ways To Have Fun In July

Check out these fun-filled events that will keep kids smiling and parents happy all month long.

If your kid’s favorite summer phrase has become “I’m bored,” consider this your rescue plan. July is packed with family-friendly fun across Morris and Essex counties, from outdoor concerts and festivals to nature programs, movies under the stars and plenty of opportunities to burn off some energy (and maybe earn a sweet treat afterward). The hardest part won’t be finding something to do—it’ll be deciding which adventure to go on first.

Grab the sunscreen, pack a few snacks and get ready to make the most of summer. Here are some of the best events happening around the counties this month.

In Morris County

Now through Aug. 2

• How about a little whodunnit this summer? The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey in Madison will present Ken Ludwig’s Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery. The show puts a twist—oftentimes comedic—on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic story. Several dates and times are available.

July 11

• Continue the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary at Stars, Stripes & Sirens, a community photo exhibit and touch-a-truck event. From 10 a.m. to noon at Mountain Lakes Borough Hall, visitors of all ages can meet emergency personnel and explore police and fire vehicles. The photo exhibit will spotlight the entries of the “What America Means To Me” showcase.
• Head to County College of Morris for the final day of the Randolph Freedom Festival. The day’s events start with a parade at 10 a.m. featuring local marching bands, floats, community groups and more. There also will be food and crafts vendors, rides and games and a fireworks display beginning at 9:45 p.m.

July 13

• Whether you’re ready to play 18 or just want to ride in the cart, participation in the annual Day of Dreams golf outing is for a good cause. Set to begin at 8 a.m. at Knoll Country Club West in Boonton, the fundraiser benefits Rose House, a nonprofit that creates homes for those with developmental disabilities. The event also includes a cocktail hour, luncheon and silent auction.

July 14

• Spice up summer at Pioneer Park in Morristown with Mayo Performing Arts Center’s Salsa at Sunset. Join Bri’La Flor Dance Studio instructors at 6 p.m. to learn Latin rhythm and dancing while a DJ plays salsa and other music.

July 18

• Enjoy an afternoon of excitement at Family Fun Day, hosted by the Museum of Early Trades & Crafts in Madison. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., attendees can check out various crafts and activities, food trucks, children’s games and a bounce house, jugglers and more.

July 24–26

• High View Farms in Mt. Olive will host the three-day 4-H Fair. Stop by for dozens of exhibits, face painting, crafts, a petting zoo, hay rides, food vendors and other activities for all ages. Check out the Morris 4-H website for complete schedules and updates.

In Essex County 

July 11–12

• A weekend of music, art and family fun awaits at the annual Maplewoodstock festival. More than 20 bands will perform while art vendors, food trucks, a beer garden and kids’ activities will be available for visitors to enjoy. Check the schedule online for the latest times, musicians and more details.

July 15, 22, 29

• Sit back, relax and enjoy Family Fun Movie Nights at the Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange. Films will be screened starting at 6 p.m., and the café will be open selling food and drinks—though outside food is permitted. Tables and chairs also will be available, but guests can bring their own chairs and blankets. This month’s schedule includes: July 15, The Lion King (1994); July 22, Zootopia 2; July 29, How To Train Your Dragon (2025).

July 23

• For an evening of comedy, grab a seat for Ladies of Laughter at South Orange Performing Arts Center. The 7:30 p.m. show will feature comediennes Meghan Hanley, Olga Namer, Mia Jackson and Laura Patton.

July 24

• The hottest hip-hop and R&B show returns when Hot 97 Summer Jam rolls into Prudential Center in Newark. This year’s concert stars French Montana, Mariah the Scientist, Ice Spice, Fetty Wap and other guests. The music begins at 7 p.m.

July 25

• Lace up your running sneakers and don your favorite Santa hat and jingle bells for the Caldwell Christmas in July 5K. The 3.1-mile race and half-mile kids’ fun run is a community fundraiser for the Caldwell University cross-country and track teams. The event take place at Caldwell University; start times are 8:45 a.m. for the kids’ event and 9 a.m. for the 5K.

July 26

• The entire family can enjoy Montclair Film’s outdoor screening of Best In Show. Stop by Anderson Park in Montclair at 7 p.m. to watch the movie that gives a behind-the-scenes look at the world of dog shows. Visitors should bring their own chairs and blankets.

July 31

• See and listen to music legend Herbie Hancock, who hits the stage at Newark’s New Jersey Performing Arts Center. The 8 p.m. show will highlight Hancock’s jazz, R&B, funk and hip-hop sounds. VIP ticket packages are offered for the event.

Share your favorite photos from this month with us on Instagram @morrisandessexmag.