MOUNT OLIVE TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Morris County) — The Mt. Olive Carnival returns to Turkey Brook Park beginning Wednesday, July 9 and runs through Saturday, July 13.
The event will feature live music, carnival rides, local food vendors, and fireworks on Friday night at 9 p.m. Organizers are reminding attendees of important parking guidelines, admission policies, and safety measures in place for the week.
Unlimited ride wristbands have sold out in advance. Pets are not allowed, with the exception of service animals.
Carnival Hours of Operation:
- Wednesday, July 9: 6–10 p.m.
- Thursday, July 10: 6–10 p.m.
- Friday, July 11: 6 p.m.–12 a.m. (Fireworks at 9 p.m.)
- Saturday, July 12: 3 p.m.–12 a.m.
- Sunday, July 13: 3–8 p.m.
Parking and Access Information
- Parking is $8 per car, per night.
- No general admission parking will be permitted inside Turkey Brook Park.
- Handicapped parking only is available at the park entrance with proper tags.
- The Dog Park will be closed from July 9 through July 14.
- No vehicles allowed in Turkey Brook Park after 3 p.m. on Wednesday–Friday and after noon on Saturday and Sunday.
- All sports fields, courts, and playgrounds (including Mount Playmore and Pirate’s Cove) closed Sunday, July 6 at 6 p.m. and remain closed until Tuesday, July 15.
Approved Parking Locations
- Chester M. Stephens School – Sunset Drive, Budd Lake
- Rear of Turkey Brook Park – via the lacrosse entrance
- Friday Only: Mt. Olive High School – Shuttle buses run 7 p.m. to 12 a.m.
No Street Parking Zones
Strictly enforced on the following roads:
- Sunset Drive
- Carson Road
- Washington Street
- Wynwood Road
- Chelsea Drive
- Marlyn Terrace
- Clinton Avenue
- Flanders Road
Drop-Off and Pick-Up
Drop-off and pick-up will occur on Flanders Road in front of Seward’s Mansion. No parking is permitted in this area. Quick loading/unloading is required, and police will be present to assist.
Admission and Tickets
- No admission fee to enter the carnival grounds.
- Wristbands ($40) available Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday only — valid on the day of purchase.
- Friday and Saturday are ticket-only days — no wristbands sold.
- Pre-purchased wristbands can be picked up at the Recreation Shed (Loop Road entrance) during carnival hours.
- Cash and credit accepted at ticket booths; ATM available on-site.
- No refunds or rainchecks. Check weather before arriving.
Live Music Schedule
Friday, July 11
- 6–7:30 p.m. – Big Short
- 8:30–11 p.m. – 3 Day Weekend
Saturday, July 12
- 3–4:30 p.m. – Hate Ash
- 5:30–7:30 p.m. – Boomerang
- 8:30–11:30 p.m. – The Watchung Mountain Riders
Sunday, July 13
-
3:30 p.m. – Vintage Feedback and Rock & Roll Academy
Food Vendors
- Chow Wow Food Truck: Fri–Sun
- Island Fusion: Wed–Thurs
- Kona Ice of Bridgewater: Wed–Sun
- Mi Sabor Boricua: Wed–Thurs
- Michele’s Bistro: Wed–Sat
- Black Forest Inn: Friday
- Philly Pretzel of Hackettstown: Friday
- Empanada Guy: Fri–Sat
- Cat-Like Reflexes: Wed–Sat
Beer Garden
Jersey Girl Brewing will operate a 21+ beer garden Friday through Sunday. Valid ID is required.
For full event info and updates, visit the Mt. Olive Recreation website.
