Spring is in the air, and Hackettstown is welcoming it in true festive style with Maifest – a celebration inspired by traditional German festivals that honor the arrival of the season. Keep reading to learn all about Maifest in Hackettstown, NJ and why you should join in on the festivities.
What is Maifest?
Maifest (pronounced my-fest) is a centuries-old German tradition that celebrates the arrival of spring with lively music, folk dancing, hearty food, and plenty of cheer. Think of it as Oktoberfest’s sunny sibling — with warmer weather but just as much festivity.
In Germany, villages welcome the season with maypoles, traditional dances, and flowing beer. Hackettstown Maifest — taking place on Saturday, May 10, 2025 as part of Hackettstown International Day and presented by Hackettstown BID — brings that spirit to life with a modern twist and multicultural flair. Local businesses, international cuisine, and a joyful street festival atmosphere come together in a celebration that goes far beyond beer, though you’ll find plenty of craft brews on tap.
It’s a vibrant showcase of Hackettstown’s diverse culture and booming downtown scene.
What to expect at Hackettstown’s Maifest 2025
Events at local small businesses
Stop into local favorites for experiences you won’t get on any other day! All these Hackettstown events are happening at locations near the intersection of Main Street and High Street.
- Grand Avenue Tavern: This local restaurant will have German beers, German-style food, and $15 flights all day long. It’s also hosting live music for classic ballroom dancing and a handful of competitions.
- Czig Meister Brewing: Our close friends at Czig Meister Brewing are hosting a German dog costume contest alongside a classic ballroom performance and some traditional German competitions.
- Marley’s Gotham Grill: Wing and burger eating contests, alongside free face painting, are among the highlights at this beloved gastropub on Main Street.
- Man Skirt Brewing: A pretzel toss competition and a pretzel pong competition are on Man Skirt’s agenda for Maifest, as is live music from John Garzman and Juke Box Trio.
Craft beer
Maifest wouldn’t be complete without great beer, and Hackettstown delivers with some of the finest local breweries. Whether you’re into crisp lagers, bold IPAs, or rich stouts, there’s a tap waiting with your name on it. Grab a pint at these Hackettstown breweries during the festivities:
- Czig Meister Brewing: This family-run brewery is doing more than just hosting events for Maifest. Stop in to enjoy their latest German-style brews and appreciate the brewery’s setting inside a historic carriage house with a bar made from reclaimed New Jersey barn wood.
- Man Skirt Brewing: Known for its signature kilts and laid-back atmosphere, Man Skirt Brewing will offer hand-crafted brews inspired by traditional English and German styles, plus hard seltzers and non-alcoholic options.
- Jersey Girl Brewing: Located just outside of downtown, Jersey Girl Brewing operates on a massive 30-barrel brewing system, producing both flagship favorites and experimental small-batch beers. With a spacious 10,000-square-foot brewery and a tasting room, it’s a great stop to try something new and bold, especially if you’re a fan of rotating, taproom-exclusive releases.
Live music and entertainment
Get ready to dance, sing along, and soak up the lively Maifest atmosphere! Hackettstown will be alive with music throughout the day, featuring roaming performers, local bands, and festive German flair.
- Peter and the Wolf-Gang Band will be roaming the town with German Dancers from Hackettstown’s Classic Ballroom dance studio. You can catch them at the following times and locations:
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- 12:40-1:00 p.m. at Czig Meister Brewing
- 1:10-1:30 p.m. at Man Skirt Brewing
- 1:40-2:00 p.m. at Grand Avenue Tavern
- 2:10-2:30 p.m. at Marley’s
- John Garzman will bring live music to Man Skirt Brewing from 2-5 p.m.
- Uncle Stump will perform at 5:30 p.m. at Czig Meister Brewing
- Juke Box Trio will play from 7-9:30 p.m, at Man Skirt Brewing
- There will be a DJ Set from 9:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. at Grand Avenue Tavern
Fun shopping at Hackettstown small businesses
One of the best parts of Maifest is exploring all the incredible small businesses that make Hackettstown unique. As you enjoy the music, food, and festivities, take time to stroll through downtown and support the shops that give our town its charm. Here are just a few of the amazing local spots to check out during Maifest.
- Divine Kin: A family-owned footwear and apparel shop blending culture and community with brands like Birkenstock, Nike, and Vans.
- Fromage: The go-to spot for specialty cheeses, local honey, and all things charcuterie.
- Luce Home Furniture and Design: A beautiful home boutique offering furniture, lighting, and stylish accents for any space.
- Me to You Boutique: A treasure trove of vintage furniture, handmade goods, candles, and even musical finds.
- Aries Moon Crystals: A spiritual shop with affordable crystals, healing services, tarot readings, and workshops.
- The G&G’s Big Closet: Trendy fashion and accessories with flair, both in-store and online.
- Home Sweet Hackettstown: Your source for NJ-themed gifts, cozy keepsakes, and local pride.
Join High Street at Maifest
As a proud part of the Hackettstown community, High Street Dispensary is thrilled to support this year’s Maifest celebration! We love being part of local events that bring people together — and Maifest is one of our favorites.
Whether you’re heading to the festival for live music, international food, or a stein-holding showdown, swing by High Street before or after the fun. We’re located just minutes from all the downtown action, and our team is here to help you find the perfect products to keep the good vibes going.
When and where is Maifest?
- Location: Along Main Street & Grand Avenue in Downtown Hackettstown, NJ, near the intersection of Main Street and High Street. The heart of Maifest stretches from the intersection of Main Street & Grand Avenue and spans the surrounding Hackettstown businesses. Click here for Google Maps directions to Hackettstown Maifest.
- Date: May 10th, 2025
- Time: Festivities begin at 12:00 p.m. and continue until 2:00 a.m.
- Parking: Free parking is available throughout downtown, courtesy of the Hackettstown Parking Authority. Look for designated lots and public spaces around the festival area.
Why you shouldn’t miss Maifest
Maifest is more than just a day of celebration — it’s a chance to experience everything that makes Hackettstown special. From the lively music and cultural performances to the delicious international food and local craft beers, this festival is a full-sensory celebration of spring and community spirit.
Like other small-town spring festivals in NJ, Maifest is the perfect excuse to:
- Celebrate local pride and connect with your neighbors
- Try new flavors from around the world — and right here at home
- Enjoy the fresh spring air as Main Street comes alive
- Support small businesses like High Street Dispensary and dozens of others that make Hackettstown unique
See you at Maifest!
We can’t wait to celebrate with you Hackettstown Maifest on Saturday, May 10! Come out to enjoy great food, live music, family fun, and one-of-a-kind shopping from local favorites. Don’t forget to swing by High Street Dispensary before or after the festivities. Let’s welcome spring together — see you at Maifest!