The bright days lengthen into cozy nights; crisp leaves twirl down in colorful spirals; there’s a slight chill in the air and frost on the pumpkin: it’s time to join the Bergen County Historical Society for Harvest Homecoming, October 22nd, from 1 to 4:30 p.m. at Historic New Bridge Landing, River Edge.

Enjoy the simple pleasures of yesteryear with your kids as they build scarecrows on the lawn or pick a pumpkin from our patch to decorate and bring home. Learn about the crafts of days gone by from the broom-maker and the blacksmith by the Westervelt-Thomas Barn; sip hot cider and partake of doughnuts and other fall favorites in a tavern that has seen over 200 years of hospitality. Saunter through the gift shop and do a little early Christmas shopping, then follow delicious aromas to the Out-Kitchen where our colonial cooks prepare an autumnal meal. Come home to history by touring the three eighteenth century houses with the help of our trained historic interpreters; see how early Americans lived and view the exhibits from the Bergen County Historical Society’s collections.

If you’re feeling particularly Halloween-ish, go batty with BCHS, and visit our guest speaker, Joseph D’Angeli at the barn, to discover things about these creatures of the night that you never knew. Going beyond spooky stories and vampire tales, learn how bats live, communicate, and help the environment.

Find us at 1201 Main Street, River Edge, NJ, just down the road from The Shops at Riverside Mall. Free parking is available onsite, or take the New Jersey Transit train (Pascack Valley Line) to New Bridge Landing station, two blocks away. Dogs are permitted outside on leash, but not in the buildings. This event may be subject to change.

Tickets may be bought at the gate, but reservations are encouraged: $12 for adults, $7 for students, children under 6 are admitted free. No charge for BCHS members (consider a membership!).