Community Events & Special Events
Celebrate What Connects Us.
Fairview Lake YMCA Camps is more than a camp — it’s a community hub for Sussex County and beyond. Our seasonal events and special weekends bring together alumni, neighbors, and friends of all ages to celebrate, share traditions, and enjoy the magic of the outdoors. Whether you're attending our Annual Pig Roast, volunteering for a cleanup day, or simply coming back home to camp, you're part of something meaningful in New Jersey’s most welcoming camp community.
Community Events
The best part about camp is sharing it with our friends and neighbors! At Fairview Lake YMCA Camps we have developed special events held throughout the year to promote family, friendship, and fun through outdoor experiences for our community. These free or low-cost events bring together everyone for afternoons of exploration and growth through meaningful activities. Come out and play and make Fairview Lake YMCA Camps your home away from home!
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Volunteer Work Weekend - November 15-16
November 15-16, 2025
FREE
Spend a meaningful weekend giving back at Fairview Lake YMCA Camps! From Saturday morning through Sunday afternoon, volunteers will join together to help with important projects around camp, including painting and beautification, trail maintenance, organizing, and other worthwhile pursuits that keep our camp thriving.
We’ll provide comfortable housing and delicious meals—lunch and dinner on Saturday, and breakfast on Sunday—so you can focus on working hard, connecting with others, and making a difference. Whether you’re a longtime camper, alumni, family, or friend of Fairview, your time and energy will help ensure camp continues to be a place of wonder, growth, and adventure for generations to come.
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Tree Lighting - December 5
December 5, 2025 | 5-7 PM
FREE
Join us for an evening of joy and fun at our annual holiday tree lighting. We'll sing festive songs, create a seasonal craft, enjoy indoor camp activities and have a visit from Jolly Old St. Nick!
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Arctic Plunge - February 1
February 1, 2026
1-4 PM
FREE
Take the plunge for a great cause! Each winter, our local fire department cuts a hole in the frozen lake, and brave participants jump into the icy waters—all to support Fairview Lake YMCA Camps. It’s a thrilling tradition that brings our community together for fun, courage, and camp spirit!
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Chili Cook Off - February 1
February 1, 2026
1-4 PM
See registration for complete details and rules!
FREE
Known for your world famous homemade chili? Put it to the test during. our Annual Support Campaign Kick-off & Arctic Plunge event!
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Leprechaun Hunt - March 15
March 15, 2026
Ages 5 & Up $5, Under 4 FREE
Oh no! Finn O’Fairview, the camp’s mischievous leprechaun, has disappeared! He left behind a trail of clues leading all over camp. Can you solve the mystery and find him? Complete each challenge, collect all your stamps, and claim your reward!
Programs are listed under "Alumni & Community Programs 2025" and "Alumni & Community Programs 2026"
If you have never registered for a program at Fairview Lake, you'll need to create an account. If you think you might have registered for something in the past, please reset your password, or give us a call and we can help! 973.383.9282
Special Events
Annual Support Campaign Kick-off!
February 1, 2026 | 1-4 pm | FREE
Together Let's Charge Ahead!
We’re kicking off the season with a high-energy winter celebration that brings our community together to fuel the future of camp. Warm up with our famous Chili Cookoff, take the plunge in the Arctic Waters of Fairview Lake, and enjoy classic camp activities, delicious food, and a lively silent auction — all in the spirit of giving. Every laugh, splash, and shared moment helps us charge ahead toward a stronger, more inclusive Fairview Lake YMCA community, ensuring every child and family can experience the life-changing magic of camp.
Virtual Parenting Workshops
Presented by the Metro YMCA of the Oranges Mental Health Team
Elevating family wellness with care, compassion, and expertise.
These workshops are proudly delivered by the Mental Health Team at the Metro YMCA of the Oranges—whose dedicated professionals, led by Mental Health Director Laura McCann and supported by a growing team of specialists, work tirelessly to deepen our commitment to mental, emotional, and behavioral well-being throughout our communities.
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Vibe Check: Authentic Connections with Your Child
Thursday, September 25 from 12-1pm via Teams
This workshop focuses on understanding, connecting, and communicating with your child in a genuine and empathetic way. We will discuss creating boundaries, building trust, meeting them where they are emotionally and socially. It emphasizes the importance of listening, being genuine, and offering emotional support. Free to all.
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The Fine Line: Managing Sibling Conflict While Keeping Parental Harmony
Thursday, October 23 from 12-1pm via Teams
This workshop focuses on helping parents navigate the delicate balance between managing sibling disputes and maintaining a harmonious family environment. We will explore the dynamics of sibling relationships, provide practical strategies to address conflicts and effective communication while managing and setting expectations. Free to all.
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Compassion in Action: Helping Loved Ones Heal After a Loss
Thursday, November 20 from 12-1pm via Teams
This workshop is designed to provide tools, understanding, and empathy needed to support friends and family grieving the loss of a loved one. The workshop emphasizes practical support strategies, listening communication skills, and understanding grief cycle during one of the most challenging times in a person’s life. Free to all.
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Mindful Media: Helping your Teen Navigate the Digital World with Balance
Thursday, January 22 from 12-1pm via Teams
This workshop is designed to help cultivate a healthier, more intentional relationship with technology and digital media for you and your teen. It focuses on understanding the impacts of digital exposure on mental health and overall well-being. The workshop emphasizes mindfulness techniques to help reduce digital overload, foster focus, and promote emotional resilience. Free to all.
Our Local YMCA Branches
Fairview Lake YMCA Camps is proud to be part of the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges.
Sussex County YMCA
The Sussex County YMCA in Hardyston is a welcoming center for health, connection, and growth. With programs for all ages — from swim lessons to fitness classes and family fun — the Y brings our community together to learn, play, and thrive.
> metroymcas.org/sussex
Sussex County YMCA Pickleball Center
The Sussex County YMCA Pickleball Center in Lafayette is a fun, welcoming space for players of all levels. With six indoor courts, lessons, leagues, and open play, it’s the perfect place to stay active, meet new friends, and be part of a growing community year-round.
> ypickleballcenter.org
Y For All
Financial Assistance
The YMCA provides financial assistance to those who may require help covering the costs of camp. Our Y for All Fund plays a crucial role in keeping the Y accessible for children, adults, and families who need support. By offering financial assistance, the Y ensures that all individuals and families can participate in Y programs and services, regardless of their financial circumstances.
Make Camp Possible
You can help make the magic of camp possible for every child by supporting our Annual Support Campaign. Your donation provides financial assistance to families in need, ensuring that every camper has the chance to learn, grow, and thrive at Fairview Lake YMCA Camps. Together, we can make sure no one is turned away due to the inability to pay—because camp is for everyone.