Some Halloween traditions involve haunted houses and pumpkin patches. In Jersey City, local musicians take over a historic cemetery dressed as some of the biggest names in music.

The Ghost of Uncle Joe’s returns to the Historic Jersey City and Harsimus Cemetery on October 23 and 24, 2026, bringing live music, costumes, food, drinks, and plenty of Halloween spirit to one of the city’s most unique settings.

So, What Exactly Is the Ghost of Uncle Joe’s?

Local musicians form tribute acts, dress up as famous bands and artists, and perform their music live inside the cemetery. Over the years, the lineup has included tributes to everyone from Nirvana and The Killers to Fleetwood Mac, David Bowie, Lady Gaga, The Ramones, and more.

Think live music festival, part costume party, and part Halloween fundraiser.

The event began in 2010 and takes its name from Uncle Joe’s, a former Downtown Jersey City rock club. What started as a fundraiser has since grown into an annual tradition within Jersey City’s local music and arts scene.

Halloween With a Purpose

The location is not just there for the spooky atmosphere.

Proceeds from the event benefit the Historic Jersey City and Harsimus Cemetery, helping support the preservation and maintenance of the historic grounds.

That community connection is a big part of what makes the event special. You are not simply attending a Halloween party. You are supporting a historic Jersey City landmark while celebrating the musicians, artists, and local culture that give the city its personality.

What to Expect

If it is your first Ghost of Uncle Joe’s, expect something a little different from the typical Halloween event.

There are costumes everywhere, multiple live tribute performances, food and drinks, and a crowd that is very much there for the music as much as the Halloween festivities.

And once the cemetery performances end, the celebration has traditionally continued at after-parties throughout Downtown Jersey City.

Why It’s So Jersey City

The Ghost of Uncle Joe’s manages to combine a little bit of everything that makes Jersey City feel like Jersey City.

It is historic, creative, slightly unexpected, community-driven, and centered around supporting something local.

For longtime residents, it has become an October tradition. For anyone newer to the area, it is the kind of event that offers a glimpse into the local culture you might not experience anywhere else.

Save the Date

The Ghost of Uncle Joe’s
📅 October 23–24, 2026
📍Historic Jersey City and Harsimus Cemetery, 435 Newark Avenue, Jersey City

Keep an eye on the event’s official social channels as this year’s lineup and additional details are announced.