Events
Next to the area’s beaches and maritime atmosphere, unique history, birding and nature attractions, water adventures on the Atlantic Ocean and the Delaware Bay or the wild and scenic Maurice River make the vacation experience a unique opportunity for a diverse traveling public. One-of-a-kind attractions and hundreds of special events create a unique opportunity for visitors to find Southern New Jersey a rich vacation experience.The allure of NJ’s Southern Shore is created through hundreds of special events that range from kiting, beauty pageants, music, volleyball, marbles and more. Just look for a calendar of events on this website or in any visitor center, and you'll soon find out what it means to celebrate the summer, spring and fall seasons as a Southern New Jersey Vacationer.
SEPTEMBER
ROAR TO THE SHORE: 5-7th:
Wildwood. Cape Classic Motorcycle Club Motorcycle rally. 609.729.8870. www.roartotheshoreonline.comMUMMERS STRINGBAND WEEKEND AND STRUTTERS CONTEST: 6-7th:
North Wildwood. Mummers strutting contest, parade and concert immediately following parade. Free. 609.522.7722.REVOLUTIONARY WAR ENCAMPMENT: 6-7th:
Historic Cold Spring Village, Cape May. Reenactors will recreate a Revolutionary War field camp. Demonstrations of 18th18th century drills, weapons, camp life, uniforms, etc. 609- 898-2300. www.hcsv.orgAVALON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STREET FAIRE: 7th:
Avalon. Area merchants offer great sales, Deejay and more. Fun for all ages. 609-967-3936. www.avalonbeach.comSIGNED PERFORMANCE OF “DOUBT”: 7th:
Cape May Stage, Cape May’s premier professional Equity theatre, is proud to announce a special evening of live theatre with a message that is seen, heard, and most importantly, remembered. On Sunday September 7th, Cape May Stage, with the generous support of PNC Bank, will feature theatrical interpreters for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Celeste Herse and Anne Maselli, during the stage’s current production of the winner of the Pulitzer Prize and 2005 Tony Award for Best Play Doubt. Please call Cape May Stage at (609) 884-1341 for reservations and information or order tickets online at www.capemaystage.comNEW JERSEY STATE FIREMEN’S CONVENTION & CRAFT SHOW: 11-13th:
varied venues in The Wildwoods. Annual Convention of Delegates and Life Members. Parade, Craft Show. Free. Convention: 800.852.0137 or www.njsfa.com. Craft Show: 609.522.1669.FESTIVAL OF INDIA: A MULTITUDE OF CULTURAL EXPRESSIONS: 12-13th:
Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center, Millville. Authentic Asian-Indian music and dance performances, artist demonstrations, special exhibits, and food. 800-998- 4552, 856-825-6800. www.wheatonarts.orgCIVIL WAR WEEKEND: 13-14th:
Historic Cold Spring Village, Cape May. Military encampment hosted by Company E, 17th Va. volunteers and 5th Regiment, NJ volunteers. Battle reenactments both days. Demonstrations of infantry drill and weapons, artillery fire, role of combat engineers. Vendors of reproduction period merchandise. 609-898-2300. www.hcsv.orgCUMBERLAND COUNTY SPORTSMAN’S JAMBOREE: 13-14th:
Maurice River Twp. 856-692-3041.FALL FAMILY FESTIVAL WEEKEND: 13-14th:
Sea Isle City. Dance contest, seaside market, live entertainment, food court, promenade dance party, sandsculpting contest, antique auto show, free guided trolley tours, antique auto parade and more. 609-263-8687. www.seaisletourism.orgTALK BACK WITH THE CAST OF “DOUBT”: 14th:
On Sunday September 14th, Cape May Stage, Cape May’s premier professional Equity theatre will host an up close and personal talk back session with the cast of the current romantic comedy “Doubt.” All audience members are invited to stay for an informal gathering immediately following the performance where all questions and comments are welcome. www.capemaystage.comBOARDWALK CLASSIC CAR SHOW: 18-21st:
on the Boardwalk and at the Wildwoods Convention Center, Wildwood. Cars displayed on the Boardwalk. Entrance fee for participants. Free to spectators. 609-523-8051. www.ThunderMoto.com.IRISH FALL FESTIVAL: 18-21st:
North Wildwood. Four-day event celebrates Irish heritage with dancing, music, food, crafts a piper competition and a parade. Free.1-800-IRISH or 609-729-0075 or www.NorthWildwood.comSENIOR NIGHT AT CAPE MAY STAGE: 19th:
Cape May Stage is hosting a special evening of theater for all senior citizens. On Friday, September 19th at 8PM, all seniors, 62 and over, are invited to attend the “Doubt” performance at the discounted rate of $12.50 per ticket. ‘Senior Nights’ sell out very quickly, so reservations are a must! Please call Cape May Stage at (609) 884-1341 for reservations and information. Attendance is limited! www.capemaystage.comTHIRD FRIDAY: 19th:
Glasstown Arts District, Millville. High Street in the Glasstown Arts District comes alive with those enjoying the arts, fine dining and a festive atmosphere, window shopping, listening to live music and seeing the sights. 800-887-4957. www.glasstownartsdistrict.comWINGS AND WATER FESTIVAL: 19-21st:
Wetlands Institute, Stone Harbor. The Festival is a family fun “Celebration of the Coast” featuring plein air painting, carving, quilters, crafters and photographers. Demonstrations, boat cruises, kayaking, guided walks, kids activities, hands on encounters, fun food and more. 609-368-1211. www.wetlandsinstitute.orgSUNSET LAKE SEAFARERS CELEBRATION: 20th:
Sunset Lake between Rambler Rd and Miami Avenue, Wildwood Crest. Over 50 crafters overlooking beautiful Sunset Lake. Food, entertainment including live music, children's activities, Fireworks. 609-522-5176 or www.wildwoodcrest.orgCAPE MAY FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL: 20-25th:
Cape May. Indulge yourself in the “restaurant capital of New Jersey.” A full week of events for those who love good food and wine; events may be attended separately. The Gourmet Marketplace at the Cape May Winery features mini-winery tours, tasting lectures and the annual Chef’s cook-off, plus the People’s Choice Chowder Contest. Enjoy Chef’s Dine-Arounds, daily Gourmet Lunches, a Beer Tasting Dinner, workshops with chef’s from award-winning restaurants and cooking classes. 609- 884-5404 or 800-275-4278. www.capemaymac.orgSUPER SUNDAY: 21st:
Morey’s Piers, The Wildwoods. Traditional farewell to summer. Special lineup of games, prizes and entertainment with reduced prices on wristbands. 609-522-3900. www.moreyspiers.comCYRANO DE BERGERAC (BY CANDLIGHT): 22nd:
You already joined us for Hamlet this year, so join us again on Monday, September 22nd for Edmond Rostand’s Cyrano de Bergerac – the story of unrequited love, poetry, duels, and big noses. This event is part of the Stage’s “In the Dark” candlelight reading series and is free of charge – Reservations are strongly encouraged. www.capemaystage.comLAW ENFORCEMENT SURVIVORS WEEKEND: 26-28th:
the Wildwoods. Honoring law enforcement officers who gave their lives in the line of duty. www.Midatlanticsurvivors.orgWILDWOOD BY THE SEA FILM FESTIVAL: 26-28th:
Wildwoods Convention Center. Inaugural International Film Festival exhibiting exciting new films from filmmakers around the world. Featuring exhibitions, daily events, workshops and Gala parties and the premier of the Dick Clark Documentary. 609.SAY.WILD or www.wildwoodbytheseafilmfest.comTHUNDER ON THE BEACH MONSTER TRUCK RACE: 27-28th:
Wildwood. Monster truck race for “King of the Beach.” Quad wars, tough truck competition, stunts. Three jam-packed shows on the beach! Rain or shine! Admission fee. 609- 523-8051. www.ThunderMoto.comBEACH JAM “FALL HARVEST”: 27-28th:
Morey’s Piers, Wildwood. Ultimate camping experience for scouts on the beach between Schellenger and Spencer Avenues. Entrance fee for participants. 609-522-3900. www.moreyspiers.comPAY WHAT YOU CAN NIGHT: 28th:
Cape May Stage strives to makes its performances open to all regardless of the ability to pay by offering a pay-what-you-can performance for each production. You decide the admission price! Tickets for designated pay-what-you-can performances go on sale at the box office a 7:45PM prior to an 8PM curtain time. Whatever tickets have not sold for that evening’s performance will be pay-what-you-can and will be on a first-come first-serve basis. Cash sales and exact change only. Seating for all pay-what-you-can performances is subject to availability and is not guaranteed. www.capemaystage.comOCTOBER
BARBER SHOP QUARTET WEEKEND: 3-4th:
The Wildwoods Convention Center. Fall convention and contest of the Mid Atlantic District of the Barbershop Harmony Society. Old-fashioned barbershop quartet harmony competition, quartet and chorus performances. Admission fee. 410.384.7655 or www.harmonize.com/MAD/SUNSET LAKE HYDROFEST POWERBOAT RACES: 4-5th:
Sunset Lake, Wildwood Crest. Powerboat racing, food and merchandise vendors. Free to spectators. Pit passes may be purchased. 609-886-8156. www.sunsetlake.usFESTIVAL OF FINE CRAFT: 4-5th:
Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center, Millville. Traditional and contemporary work from over 160 juried artists. Outdoor and indoor show, craft demonstrations, kids’ activities, specialty foods and more. 800- 998-4552, 856-825-6800. www.wheatonarts.org29th ANNUAL FALL FESTIVAL: 4th:
Dutch Neck Village, Bridgeton. Featuring fun foods, live entertainment, craft artisans and plenty of shopping. 856-451-2188.www.dutchneckvillage.com
CAPE MAY WINE FESTIVAL: 6-7th:
Cape May-Lewes Ferry Terminal, Lower Township. This is your opportunity to sample (and buy) the superb award- winning wines from New Jersey, listen to live music, stroll through crafters and buy wine related items to take home, attend educational seminars, purchase gourmet food, and visit The Kids Zone which has activities especially for the younger attendees, and much, much more. Free parking on the terminal grounds and shuttle service from Victorian Cape May. 609-884-5404. 800-275-4278. www.capemaymac.orgCAPE MAY JAZZ FESTIVAL: 7-9th:
Cape May. Performing at various venues throughout Cape May with more than 20 events over a three-day weekend. The festival will welcome many familiar and exciting new performers. 609-884-7277. www.capemayjazz.orgFALL THUNDER ON THE SAND PRO/AM SANCTIONED MOTOCROSS RACE: 10-12th:
On the Beach at Lincoln Avenue, Wildwood. AMA sanctioned races featuring beginners to pros. Admission fee. 609.523.8051. www.ThunderMoto.comDEERFIELD TOWNSHIP HARVEST FESTIVAL: 10-12th:
Rosenhayn. Family fun, live music, lively entertainment, fun foods and more. Free. 856-455-3200.festival@deerfieldtownship.org. www.deerfieldtownship.org
INDIAN SUMMER CELEBRATION: 10-13th:
Ocean City. Seafood vendors at the Music Pier and Boardwalk table sales. 609-525-9300, 609-399-2269. www.ocnj.usVICTORIAN WEEK: 10-19th
Cape May. Hailed as “A Top 100 event in North America,” Celebrate Victoriana with ten days of unique and entertaining activities, such as Vintage Dance Workshops, Historic House Tours, Murder Mystery Dinners, tours by boat around Cape Island, evening ghost tours, Victorian teas, concerts, and more. Order tickets in advance to ensure a place at these events. 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.orgCOLUMBUS DAY PARADE & ITALIAN FESTIVAL: 11th:
Sea Isle City. Parade honoring the Italian traditions highlighted by a night with Jerry Blavat. 609-263- 4461, ext. 230. www.seaisletourism.orgLIMA BEAN FESTIVAL: 11th:
West Cape May. The lowly lima bean actually has its day in the sun when lima bean lovers gather to celebrate the proud tradition of lima bean farming in this little town. There's always homemade lima bean soup, baked limas, lima bean salad and more limas in chili, barbequed, in salsa and even lima bean ice cream. Contact the Chamber of Commerce of Greater Cape May at 609-884-8382 or 609-884-9325. www.westcapemaytoday.comOPEN ARTISTS’ STUDIO TOUR: 11th:
Glasstown Arts District, Millville. More than 20 artists open their studios to the public, demonstrations and art on sale. 800-887-4947.www.glasstownartsdistrict.comFALL BLOCK PARTY: 11th:
Ocean City. Over 400 crafters, food vendors, music and more at the Tabernacle grounds. 609-525-9300. 609-399-2269. www.ocnj.usARTS AND MUSIC FESTIVAL: 11-12th:
Stone Harbor. Local artists display their talents on the streets of downtown Stone Harbor 96th Street and Third Avenue.609-368-6101. www.stoneharborbeach.com
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SEAFOOD FESTIVAL: 12th:
Avalon. Lots of great seafood, music, vendors, crafters, Chowder Contest and more. Fun for all ages. 609-967-3936. www.avalonbeach.comTHIRD FRIDAY: 17th:
Glasstown Arts District, Millville. High Street in the Glasstown Arts District comes alive with those enjoying the arts, fine dining and a festive atmosphere, window shopping, listening to live music and seeing the sights. 800-887-4957. www.glasstownartsdistrict.comSOUTH JERSEY PUMPKIN SHOW: 17-18th:
Cumberland County Fairgrounds, Millville. Three day family fall festival celebrates agriculture, arts and crafts, entertainment, great fall, pets, food, scarecrows, largest pumpkins grown in New Jersey, home and garden companies and more. 856-765-0118. www.sjpumpkinshow.comFABULOUS 50’S CELEBRATION: 17-19th:
The Wildwoods. A celebration of the Wildwoods' place in Rock 'n Roll history. The weekend kicks off on Friday night with a dance party in the Wildwoods Convention Center’s Oceanfront Arena features a free all-day Street Fair. Weekend concludes with the Annual Wildwoods Music Award in North Wildwood featuring appearances from 50's artists and a presentation of the Wildwood Music Awards. For more info and accommodations packages call 888.729.0033 or www.fabfifties.comPUMPKIN FESTIVAL: 18th:
Historic Cold Spring Village, Cape May. Craft show, music, games, food vendors, pumpkin painting. Halloween parade. 609-898-2300. www.hcsv.orgNEW JERSEY LIGHTHOUSE CHALLENGE: 19-20th:
Hereford Inlet Lighthouse, North Wildwood. Activities each day including many guest Lighthouse experts. Free. 609-522-4520. www.herefordlighthouse.orgCAPE MAY AUDUBON WEEKEND: 24-26th:
Cape May. Join birding and nature enthusiasts at the world famous migration capital of North America Cape May through workshops, programs, field trips and more See live Hawk and Owl demonstrations. Get an up close look at some creepy, crawly critters. 609-884- 2736. www.birdcapemay.orgSCREAMING’S RUN HAUNTED WALK: 24-25th & Oct. 31-Nov.1st
Leaming’s Run Gardens, Cape May Court House. Spooky candlelit tours for all ages. 609-465- 5871. www.Screamingsrun.comNOVEMBER
CANDLELIGHT WALKING TOUR: 1st:
Historic Cold Spring Village, Cape May.Stroll the illuminated paths of the Village for an evening tour of select buildings. Wine and light fare served. Proceeds benefit the HCSV Foundation. 609-898- 2300. www.hcsv.org
FALL ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL: 1st:
Cape May. More than 40 vendors come to Cape May Convention Hall, Beach Drive at Stockton Place, to sell hand-made novelties including seasonal decorations, gift items and more. 609-884-5404, 800- 275-4278. www.capemaymac.orgTRAIL OF TWO CITIES: 1st:
Ocean City and Somers Point. Run/Walk over the 9th St. bridge from Somers Point to Ocean City. 800-BEACHnj. 609-525-9300.www.ocnj.us