Have you been spotting some orange in the mornings on your way to school? Perhaps you caught a cold wind through your clothes during cross-campus? Maybe you even spotted a skeleton or two draped over the back of a jeep (creative decoration, by the way).
Well, Central, that’s Fall reminding us that she’s here, and with her comes her spooky sibling…you guessed it, Halloween! Central Jersey is full of pumpkin-spiced-crazed coffee drinkers, bohemian home decorators, and over-the-top home goods shoppers. New Jerseyans go absolutely bonkers for seasonal fall rituals; there’s a reason people say every town in Hunterdon County looks like a “Pottery Barn catalog had a baby with a traffic circle”… and Flemington is no exception.
Between pumpkin patches, red haunted mills, and a sudden spike in UGG sightings, fall is practically a regional sport– and our little corner of New Jersey doesn’t come to play. So as the days get shorter and flannel becomes more frequent, let’s take a look at what’s brewing in Flemington this fall to get you in the Halloween spirit.
Scare Season:
Are you someone who oddly enjoys being terrified on account of your own free will? Are you weird in the sense that you find ankle grabbing and screaming absolutely titillating? Well, Shaefer’s farm doesn’t grab ankles, but they certainly do have a fair share of jump scares.
Located on 1051 County Route 523 in Flemington, Shaefer’s farm runs as a family-owned business through 4 generations. Regularly selling fresh produce like cheese, milk, eggs, or butter along with their unique candy, jellies, local honey, and ice cream, Shaefer’s farmstand is open from 9:30 am – 5:00 pm, so stop by before 7 pm… before you get roped into the “Farm of Horrors”.
Shaefer’s “Farm of Horrors” claims to be a “high-scare,” “high-startle” experience that will have you “praying for almost anything!” The haunted attractions consist of the Hayride of Horror, Trail of Terror, Massacre Maize, and Carnevil of Chaos. All of which could contain strobe lights, blood or gore, synthetic fog… along with their totally zombified actors. I know I am currently shaking in my boots, but don’t worry; as someone with Shaefer’s experience, even the faint of heart will have their moment of fun. Remember to watch your footing through the dark and dress warmly!
These local adrenaline rushes are open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until November 2nd. But make sure to come early! The line is notorious for being at least an hour long; online reviews recommend going on Fridays or Sundays to avoid the longest wait times.
So grab your courage, maybe some friends, leave the kids at home (not recommended for children under 13; parental supervision advised), and hike on over to Shaefer’s to get yourself some haunted hometown energy. Tickets start at $38 and may be subject to change on popular dates closer to Halloween.
And, not to fear, if scares aren’t for you, Shaefer’s always offers more family-friendly activities like pumpkin picking, hay rides, or the corn maze as “non-scary” activities during the day.
Cozy & Classic:
Maybe instead of a night full of screams with friends, a quick coffee or run to a local eatery better suits your autumn desires. In downtown Flemington, small businesses are flourishing with seasonal drinks, pastries, and good eats that pair perfectly with chilly weather and the honey hues of Mother Nature.
A popular coffee spot on our beloved Stangl Road in Flemington is Alkemy Coffee Co., founded a little over a year ago. Alkemy offers a variety of beverages, from herbal teas, skillfully crafted coffees, and the most delectable matchas. A trip to Alkemy is one that your taste buds will thank you for; their pumpkin spice lattes are like fall in a cup. To read more about Alkemy, check out our own Molly Normart’s in-depth article on their history and mission.
Now that you’ve drunk some coffee, we must balance this out with a good pastry or two. Good thing Bread & Culture, a local artisan bakery, is just a two-minute drive away. Sweet and salty sourdough breads cascade across the menu, muffins and cookies call your name, you’d better answer! What once began as a stand at farmers’ markets in New Jersey has transformed into a bakery with a connection and love for its work. Love is an essential ingredient of fall, so Bread & Culture is a place you won’t want to miss.
Once you have your baked goods and coffee in hand, take a stroll through Mine Brook Park or explore the beautiful foliage and sights at Round Valley Reservoir.
Embrace the Season:
Halloween may be a holiday about facing fears, but trying new things doesn’t have to be scary. Especially when there are local traditions, friends, and a town full of Pottery Barn catalog-meets-traffic circle charm. Whether you’re caught braving a hayride, sipping coffee at your local brewery, or appreciating the fall leaves, Flemington is about enjoying the season your way.
