G. DeLuca & Sons Fall Fest Draws Families to Berkeley Heights

Families packed G. DeLuca & Sons' nursery at 295 Snyder Avenue on Saturday, October 4, for the company's second annual Fall Fest, held under clear skies on a picture-perfect autumn day.

The family-run business created a festive scene with mums in rich autumn shades and bundles of corn husks setting the tone for the celebration. Free admission brought community members together for a day of activities designed for all ages.

Brick oven pizza, ice cream, and fresh cannoli kept guests satisfied throughout the day. The cannoli were a standout, with each shell filled fresh to order and finished with an assortment of toppings. The pastry shells proved so popular that they sold out, with guests happily enjoying the sweet, creamy filling on its own.

Children lined up for face painters and balloon artists, while others painted pumpkins in the greenhouse with help from grandparents. A fall-themed photo backdrop gave families an opportunity to capture seasonal keepsakes.

One of the busiest attractions was the petting zoo run by Barn and Berry, a Washington, New Jersey animal rescue group. Children crowded around Maisie the pig and a flock of chickens with names including Cream Cheese and Cowboy. The fluffy Silkie chickens, whose plumage looks more like fur than feathers, drew curious questions from young visitors. Barn and Berry also cares for horses and alpacas.

"Last year's inaugural festival was dampened by poor weather, which made this year's sunshine and big turnout especially sweet for the family," reflecting the significance of the successful event for the business.

The DeLucas are supporters of local community events, including the annual Winter Walk and the Block Party. Founded in 1985 by Giacomo L. DeLuca, who brought traditional craftsmanship from Italy, G. DeLuca & Sons has grown into a family of businesses including the nursery, florist, landscape supply center, masonry contracting, landscaping, hardscaping, facilities maintenance, and DeLuca Disposal Solutions.

FAQ

Q: What is G. DeLuca & Sons Fall Fest?

A: G. DeLuca & Sons' Fall Fest is a free, family-friendly fall celebration held at the company's nursery in Berkeley Heights. The event features food, activities, entertainment, and a petting zoo.

Q: When was the second annual Fall Fest held?

A: The event took place on Saturday, October 4, 2026, at G. DeLuca & Sons' nursery, 295 Snyder Avenue, Berkeley Heights.

Q: What activities and attractions were available?

A: Activities included face painting, balloon artists, pumpkin painting in the greenhouse, a photo backdrop, fresh food (pizza, ice cream, cannoli), and a petting zoo featuring rescued farm animals.

Q: Who ran the petting zoo?

A: Barn and Berry, an animal rescue group from Washington, New Jersey, operated the petting zoo. They care for farm animals including pigs, chickens, horses, and alpacas.

Q: How long has G. DeLuca & Sons been in business?

A: G. DeLuca & Sons was founded in 1985 by Giacomo L. DeLuca and has grown to include multiple service lines including a nursery, florist, landscape supply center, masonry, landscaping, hardscaping, facilities maintenance, and disposal solutions.