Carli Clesmere 
Thanksgiving is almost here, and the holiday season is in full swing. Keeping visiting family entertained can feel tricky, but Bergen County has plenty of seasonal activities to make the weekend special. From turkey trots to scenic walks, shopping days, movie nights, winery + brewery visits, and wandering charming downtown streets, there’s something for everyone. Keep reading for some creative, family-friendly activities this Thanksgiving in Bergen County, New Jersey.
A Night at the Lanes | 85 Midtown Bridge Street, Hackensack + 64 East Midland Avenue, Paramus + 299 Paterson Avenue, Wallington
An all-ages activity that’s always a good time and can get pretty competitive is bowling. Bowling with a group is a fun way to laugh, cheer each other on, and even sneak in a little friendly rivalry. Add in some arcade games, snack bar favorites, and a few rounds of playing, and it turns into a full outing. Our go-to spots in the area are Bowler City in Hackensack, Humdingers in Paramus, and Lucky Strike in Wallington.
Enjoy a Live Show | 30 North Van Brunt Street, Englewood
From music and comedy to game shows, the Bergen PAC has plenty of entertaining options for visitors. Nestled in Englewood, it consistently hosts a lineup of engaging acts and performances. Check the calendar to see what’s happening while your guests are in town.
Put Together Care Packages for Local Shelters | 120 South River Street, Hackensack
The holidays are a reminder to take a step back, appreciate what we have, and find ways to help others. A simple and meaningful at-home activity is to create care packages with your family. Fill them with canned goods, toiletries, socks, blankets, and other small essentials, then drop them off at a local shelter like the Bergen County Human Services Center in Hackensack. It’s a great way to spend time together while giving back to the community.
Read More: November 2025 Events in Bergen County, NJ
Catch a Film on the Big Screen
Streaming movies at home is convenient, but sometimes nothing beats the experience of going to a theater. Big popcorn, a giant Diet Coke (that’s BG’s usual order), and a comfortable reclining seat in front of a massive screen make it a delightful outing for all guests. Movies are a simple way to entertain everyone, and Bergen County has plenty of theaters worth checking out. See our list of must-visit theaters here.
Leaf-Peeping Walks
On a crisp fall day, taking a walk through colorful foliage and hearing the leaves crunch underfoot is a simple activity that works for all ages, and it doesn’t cost a thing. Bergen County is full of scenic spots where families and friends can enjoy the season, explore winding trails, and take in the vibrant colors of autumn. From great trails to charming downtown streets, there are plenty of places to stretch the legs and soak in the fall atmosphere. See the full list of locations here.
Jam + Sing | 799 Abbott Boulevard 2nd Floor, Fort Lee + 400 Bergen Boulevard, Palisades Park
A BG family tradition that never fails to bring laughs and unforgettable memories is heading to a local karaoke spot. Renting a private room with the group and spending a few hours singing along to favorite songs is the kind of activity that gets everyone involved, regardless of age or talent level. Add in some snacks, a couple of drinks for the adults, and plenty of off-key moments, and it becomes a holiday highlight. We often head to Mui Karaoke + Bar in Fort Lee or Rock 21 in Palisades Park.
Lace Up for a Turkey Trot | 305 Beechwood Place, Leonia
Turkey trots are a great way to get moving and kick-start the appetite before a day full of food. A great option is the Leonia Turkey Trot, which takes place on Thursday, November 27th, 2025, at 8AM and is a great way to start the holiday with a bit of activity.
Tour a Nearby Museum | 153 Main Street, Fort Lee + 330 Paramus Road, Paramus + 335 Franklin Turnpike, Ho-Ho-Kus
Spending a day exploring history can be both enjoyable and educational, and Bergen County has numerous museums that make it easy to do both. These spots give visitors the chance to learn about the area while enjoying an engaging experience. Some of our favorites include the Barrymore Film Center in Fort Lee, which highlights the local film legacy; the Fritz Behnke Historical Museum in Paramus; and The Hermitage in Ho-Ho-Kus, a preserved historic home with fascinating stories. Each location provides a chance to connect with the county’s past and leave with new insights.
Roam a Cute Downtown
Wandering through a local downtown and exploring everything it has to offer, from cafes and boutiques to restaurants and dessert spots, is a relaxing way to spend time on foot and enjoy that small-town atmosphere. Bergen County has many charming towns, but the team at BG always goes back to Ridgewood for a full day of adventure and exploration. Read more here about how to spend a day in Ridgewood.
Sip and Savor at Local Wineries + Breweries | 700 Lawlins Road, Wyckoff + 247 Westwood Avenue, Westwood
For family members over 21 seeking an enjoyable activity, visiting a local winery or brewery is a great way to unwind, share stories, and spend quality time together over the holidays. The Tomasello Winery Tasting Room in Wyckoff is a solid choice for wine enthusiasts. For craft beer fans, Five Dimes Brewery, in Westwood, makes for a fun stop. These places are close to each other, making it easy to visit both if the group wants to hop from one to the next.
See More: 5K Runs + Turkey Trots Happening for Fall 2025 in New Jersey
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