Our Spring Festival this year is 'Alice in Wonderland'

Experience the enchantment of Riddlesbrood’s unforgettable family-friendly festivals! This Spring, we’re back at Historic Smithville with 'Alice in Wonderland'! Mark your calendars for May 23rd and 24th (Memorial day weekend) and experience The Magic—a traditional FREE outdoor production. Don’t miss this unforgettable weekend of entertainment for the whole family!

A touring theater troupe performing an interactive show at an NJ Festival.
Memorial Day Weekend 2026

May 23rd 1pm & 5pm & May 24th at 1pm

Check out the Map to the left to see where all the fun is!!!

[615 E Moss Mill Rd, Absecon, NJ 08201]

 

The performances are FREE to the public and outdoors, so dress appropriately and maybe bring a folding chair if needed! Each show takes place on three separate stages, spread out across the town, providing ample ability to peruse the many shops and vendors in the village!  The cast of the shows include actors from the Riddlesbrood Touring Theatre Company troupe along with many children of all ages from the local community.

The historic Towne of Smithville will be bustling with activity during the festival. Its 60 charming specialty shops, festival vendors, a Kidz Zone, the award-winning historic Smithville Inn restaurant and 3 other restaurants within the village will all be open to visit and enjoy before, during intermissions or after the shows. For added entertainment, The Smithville Train and The Smithville Carousel, two timeless attractions that evoke romance, adventure and playful fun, will also be open and running both days for children and adults to ride and share an unforgettable experience. 

*Event is rain or shine

What is the featured show this time?

The premier of "Riddlesbrood's Alice in Wonderland",  an original, rollicking, musical adaptation of Lewis Carroll's classic, nonsensical novel, '"Alice's Adventures in Wonderland", by Riddlesbrood Touring Theatre Company, will be the featured free outdoor attraction at their annual 2-day Fantasy AdventureFest! Presented on Riddlesbrood’s portable, main stage, along with 2 other stages set up on the Village Green in the heart of the Village of Smithville, 615 E. Moss Mill Road, Absecon, NJ 08201, Riddlesbrood's Alice in Wonderland"  will have matinee performances at 1 PM and 5 PM on Saturday and at 1 PM on Sunday.   A variety of vendors with fantasy and adventure themed art, artistry and collectibles will add to the festivities. Admission and parking are free both days. 

Take a moment to check out all of the vendors and sponsors that help bring this festival to life!

A lively scene from an NJ Festival, featuring an outdoor stage and a crowd enjoying the show.
A vibrant NJ Festival with colorful decorations and an engaging performance taking place.
A professional touring performance at an NJ Festival, captivating the audience.
Disclaimer!

Please note that this outdoor event is subject to weather conditions. Performances may be paused or canceled in the case of rain or lightning for safety reasons. Attendees are advised to consider these factors and prepare accordingly. Seating will not be provided at the venue. Guests are encouraged to bring their own folding chairs to ensure their comfort during the event. While admission to the event is free of charge, parking availability is on a first-come, first-served basis and is complimentary if space permits. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure parking. The event is structured in three acts with 30-minute intermissions, allowing guests time to explore and shop at the vendor stalls. Public restrooms will be available for use by attendees. By attending this event, guests acknowledge and accept the risks associated with outdoor events, including weather conditions and seating arrangements. The organizers are not liable for any personal discomfort or inconvenience related to these factors.

A dynamic festival scene in NJ with performers engaging the audience
A festival crowd enjoying a thrilling mainstage performance at an NJ Festival.
More to Explore: Activities for Young Festivalgoers!

Swing by the outdoor Kidz Zone—our giggle-packed corner by the Barn on the Village Green side! Catch lively puppet shows on the mini stage, dive into FREE games and hands-on activities for ages 10 and under, and explore kid-centric vendors with toys, crafts, face painting, and more. It’s easy to find, stroller-friendly, and the perfect spot for little festivalgoers to play while grown-ups take five.

 

Kids puppet show at the festival
santa puppet show