10 Can't-Miss Events In NJ Before Winter Ends

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The 2026 events calendar in New Jersey is springing to life as winter makes its final push. Whether you're looking to check out a local fish fry event, ring in the spring season with some local shopping, hear live comedy, or try some new food, there are plenty of upcoming events planned throughout the Garden State.

Why it matters

As the winter season winds down, these 10 events provide New Jersey residents with a variety of entertainment options to enjoy the final weeks of the season and transition into spring.

The details

The events range from a chili cook-off fundraiser and a home and garden show to a comedy roast of New Jersey and a lantern festival celebrating Chinese culture. Many of the events also feature food, shopping, and live entertainment.

• The 40-day Lenten season began with Ash Wednesday, and fish fry feeds fill the calendar on Fridays for the rest of February through March.
• The 15th Annual Chili Cook-Off is on February 22.
• The NJ Home & Garden Show runs from February 27 through March 1.
• The Roast Of New Jersey is on February 28.
• Shamrocks By The Shore is on March 7.
• The Chocolate Expo is on March 7 & March 8.
• The Craft Show is on March 8.
• The Sunflower Lantern Festival Gala is on March 8.
• Comedy Night Live is on March 13.
• Ringling Bros: Barnum & Bailey runs from March 19 through March 22.
• The Annual Fish Fry Dinner is on March 27.