easy
1–3 hours
Suitable for all fitness levels; gentle walking on farm paths and orchard rows.
Demarest Farms in Hillsdale, NJ, mixes hands-on fruit picking with seasonal festivals, from apple harvests to Halloween light shows. Discover why it’s a top autumn destination for family-friendly outdoor fun.
Located in Hillsdale, New Jersey, Demarest Farms offers an engaging mix of seasonal outdoor activities that make it a standout destination for families and community groups looking to enjoy the outdoors close to home. The farm’s year-round events revolve around fruit picking—apples, peaches, and pumpkins—and seasonal celebrations such as the Halloween Light Show and the Orchard of Lights. This blend of traditional farm fun and festive gatherings offers visitors a hands-on experience unlike typical day trips in the region.
Demarest Farms is deeply woven into the local outdoor landscape with its working orchard and farm market. The orchard is home to a variety of fruit trees native to the region, with apple and peach picking timed to peak ripeness in late summer and fall. The vibrant colors and crisp air create a classic Northeastern farm experience, inviting visitors to walk through rows of fruit-laden trees and hand-select their harvest. The farm also hosts unique events like Stewie the Duck’s Family Fun Day and Scotty Mac's Sippy Poo BBQ, adding a lively community spirit to the rustic backdrop.
In addition to picking fruits, guests enjoy on-site vendors offering homemade jams, baked goods, and the famous apple cider donuts, which are often cited as must-try treats. The farm’s Halloween Light Show offers an immersive evening event with illuminated displays and seasonal photo spots—perfect for families wanting a low-key but festive outing.
This location stands apart for its balance of authentic farm activities, accessible open spaces for kids, and special events that draw locals out in force each season. While visits can get busy, especially weekends and peak harvest, the farm’s organization and scheduled sessions help maintain a smooth experience. Demarest Farms is not just a day out; it’s a seasonal tradition for many who live in the northern New Jersey area, blending hands-on agriculture with genuine outdoor enjoyment.
Weekends and peak season can get crowded; midweek visits provide a more relaxed experience with easier parking and shorter lines.
The orchard’s uneven surfaces, dirt paths, and occasional mud call for closed-toe shoes or boots, especially after rain.
Having your own container makes picking and carrying fruits easier and reduces the need for farm-provided bags.
Arriving early in the day ensures the best selection of peaches and apples before they’re picked over by large groups.
Demarest Farms has been a community fixture in Bergen County for decades, reflecting New Jersey’s long tradition of family-operated orchards and farm markets.
The farm promotes sustainable practices such as seasonal harvesting and minimal pesticide use to maintain soil and ecosystem health.
Dress in layers or waterproof jackets to stay comfortable during changing weather conditions.
all specific
Protect your feet from uneven, sometimes muddy, farm terrain.
all specific
Bring your own containers to carry picked fruits easily and sustainably.
summer|fall specific
Stay hydrated during outdoor activities, especially on warm days.
summer|fall specific