May is upon us here at the Jersey Shore, so get out the beach towels, unpack the box of spring + summer clothes, and get ahead on weekend planning. The warmer weather comes with an abundance of activities, including live concerts at Stone Pony, a vegan food truck festival, the opening of Hurricane Harbor at Six Flags, and much more. Read on to see the list of Jersey Shore events happening this May 2025. Don’t forget: you can submit your community events to our calendar HERE.
Disclaimer: This is a community resource. Submit events HERE and view the full calendar HERE. The Jersey Shore Girl is not affiliated with hosting unless explicitly stated.
AEW Collision
Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Saturday — May 3rd at 7PM
All Elite Wrestling hosts an epic night of professional wrestling at Atlantic City’s historic Adrian Phillips Theater at Boardwalk Hall. AEW Collision is an action-packed event taking place on Saturday, May 3rd. The evening features star-studded female and male wrestlers, and fans can expect to witness the athleticism, massive personalities, and exciting storylines that have made AEW a sensation.The wrestling event also includes a live broadcast of AEW Collision on TNT. Read more about the legendary AEW Collision night by clicking here. FYI: The event begins at 7PM, and doors open at 6PM.
Mother’s Day Music Festival 2025
Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Saturday — May 10th at 7PM
The Mother’s Day Music Festival 2025 starts at 7PM on May 10th at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall. Platinum Productions, a leading black-owned concert production company, hosts a night of legendary performances. For anyone seeking Mother’s Day weekend live entertainment, the festival promises to feature the best rhythm and blues music. The can’t-miss lineup features famous R+B artists Keith Sweat, Charlie Wilson, Jagged Edge, and Jon B, who will serenade the audience with their timeless hits. Click here to learn more about this Atlantic City rhythm and blues musical event.
Grand Opening of Salvation Rooftop at The Asbury Hotel
The Asbury Hotel 210 Fifth Avenue, Asbury ParkJoin The Asbury Hotel for the grand opening of Salvation Rooftop on Thursday, May 1st at 210 Fifth Avenue, Asbury Park.
Cougars & Cubs Ball
The Tropicana 2831 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJStop by Boogie Nights Tropicana on the first Friday of every month for the Cougars & Cubs Ball. At midnight the cougar + cub of the month will be crowned.
Lotus Lounge at Laylow Cocktail Lounge
Laylow Cocktail Lounge 603 Mattison Avenue, Asbury Park, NJJoin Laylow Cocktail Lounge at 603 Mattison Avenue, Asbury Park, for a month of cocktails that don’t just play with the rules—they rewrite them. This takes place from April 3rd…
2025 Down + Derby Wine Festival at Cooper River Park – Veterans Island
Cooper River Park – Veterans Island 5300 North Park Drive, Pennsauken, NJThe Fourth Annual Down + Derby Wine Festival will take place on Saturday, May 3rd from 2PM – 7PM at Veterans Island in Cooper River Park, located at 5300 North…
The Dandy Warhols at Stone Pony
The Stone Pony 913 Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park, NJThe Dandy Warhols will play at Asbury Park's Stone Pony, located at 913 Ocean Avenue North, on May 9th at 7PM.
2025 Asbury Park Vegan Food Festival at Bradley Park
Bradley Park 101-199 5th Avenue, Asbury ParkThe Asbury Park Vegan Food Festival is a celebration that features vegan and plant-based meals from local chefs, as well as vegan products, plant-based fashion, live music, and good times.…
Hurricane Harbor Water Park Opening Day
Six Flags Great Adventure 1 Six Flags Boulevard, Jackson Township, NJJoin Six Flags Great Adventure, located at 1 Six Flags Boulevard, Jackson Township, for the opening day of its Hurricane Harbor Water Park on May 17th.
Dinner + Comedy Show at Silver Ridge Park West
Silver Ridge Park West 145 Westbrook Drive, Toms River, NJCome on out and enjoy a dinner and comedy show at the Silver Ridge Park West Clubhouse at 145 Westbrook Drive, Toms River, on Saturday, May 17th from 5PM to 9PM.
Walk to Cure Arthritis at Great Lawn Pavilion
Great Lawn Pavilion Mckinley Street, Long Branch, NJThe 2025 Walk to Cure Arthritis will take place on May 18th at 9AM at Great Lawn Pavilion, located at Mckinley Street, Long Branch. Walk to Cure Arthritis is the…
2025 Asbury Park Vegan Food Festival at Bradley Park
Bradley Park 101-199 5th Avenue, Asbury ParkThe Asbury Park Vegan Food Festival takes place on May 17th and May 18th from 11AM to 7PM at Bradley Park, located at 101-199 5th Avenue, Asbury Park. This two-day…
Essense of Australia Curvy Trunk Show at The Curvy Bride
The Curvy Bride 357 U.S. 9, Manalapan, NJJoin The Curvy Bride for its first Essense of Australia Curvy Trunk Show of the year from May 16th - May 18th at 357 U.S. 9, Manalapan. Schedule your private…
Bonsai Workshop at Wild Air Beerworks
Wild Air Beerworks 801 2nd Avenue, Asbury Park, NJLearn the fundamental skills and techniques behind the art of bonsai while enjoying a night out with friends on May 18th from 4PM to 6PM at Wild Air Beerworks, located…
Grief Circle in Asbury Park
Join Dorian Cattani, Reiki Master, Energy Healer, and Certified Meditation Teacher who has experienced the grief of losing her Grandma in 2015, her soul dog in 2020, and her Dad…
Springsteen on Sunday
Bar Anticipation 703 16th Avenue, Lake Como, NJTom Cunningham hosts the world-famous "Springsteen on Sunday," every Sunday from 9 AM to 11 AM.
Piano Party with Bob Egan
The Asbury Hotel 210 Fifth Avenue, Asbury ParkBob Egan will be playing the piano every Tuesday at Soundbooth in the Asbury Park Hotel, where everyone is invited to come sing along.
The Surfing Pig Yappy Hour
The Surfing Pig 231 West 10th Avenue, North Wildwood, NJThe Surfing Pig announced their new 'Yappy Hour,' held every Wednesday from 3-6 pm. This event is perfect for dog owners looking to enjoy fun adventures with their pets.
Karaoke with Johnny Mac
Nardi's Tavern 11801 Long Beach Boulevard, Long Beach Island, NJJoin Johnny Mac every Wednesday for a fun-filled karaoke night.
Sandy Mack Jam Band
The Asbury Hotel 210 Fifth Avenue, Asbury ParkStop by the Soundbooth every Wednesday to enjoy live music by the Sand Mack Jam Band.
Café Artiste
The Jersey Shore Arts Center 66 South Main Street, Ocean Grove, NJCafé Artiste is the listening room for original music. This event is located on the 3rd floor of The Jersey Shore Arts Center with plenty of free parking in front…
Reef and Barrel Trivia Night
Reef and Barrel Beach Bar + Grill 153 Sea Girt Avenue, Manasquan, NJFun and engaging trivia night every Wednesday at 7:00 PM.
Open Mic with Jason Portizo
The Asbury Hotel 210 Fifth Avenue, Asbury ParkStop by the Soundbooth in The Asbury Hotel for an open mic night hosted by Jason Portizo.
Woody’s Roadside Yappy Hour
Woodys Roadside 105 Academy Street, Farmingdale, NJFood + Drinks + Pups! This happy hour event is dog-friendly and occurs every Friday.
Distillery Tour
Nauti Spirits Distillery 916 Shunpike Road, Cape May, NJGo on a behind-the-scenes tour of Nauti Spirits Distillery to learn about the farm + production facilities required to make a variety of hand-crafted spirits.
Country Night Fridays
Ocean Casino + Resort 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJEnjoy happy hour specials with live entertainment alongside boots, beers, + bourbon at this weekly Country Night Fridays event.
Yappy Hour at Wave Resort
Wave Resort 110 Ocean Ave North, Long BranchBring your pups to Wave Resort and enjoy cocktails with your four-legged friends every Friday at Wave Resort.
Friday Night Beats
The Beach Gallery Bar 260 Beach Way Avenue, Keansburg, NJKickstart your weekend with Friday Night Beats. Enjoy live DJ sets and free entry, with cabana rentals available as well.
Live Music at Leggets
Leggett's Sand Bar 217 1st Avenue, Manasquan, NJEvery day of the week there is live music at Legget's with each day featuring a different act. Check out their calendar to see who is playing each night.
Downtown Wildwood Farmers Market
Downtown Wildwood Farmers Market 3400 Pacific Avenue, Wildwood, NJOver 85 vendors offering fresh farm goods including produce, plants, cut flowers & honey.
Brick Farmers Market at Windward Beach
Windward Beach 265 Princeton Avenue, Brick Township, NJThe Brick Farmers Market returns to Windward Beach on May 3rd and runs until October 4th. The hours are 8:30AM to 1:30PM. The Brick Farmers Market features nearly 60 vendors…
Chill Here Now at The Asbury Hotel
The Asbury Hotel 210 Fifth Avenue, Asbury ParkTake a dip in the refreshing pool and relax in the sun. The bar and food truck will be open slinging drinks & tacos. Enjoy panoramic views from the Salvation…
5 Shows Nightly at The Music Man Singing Ice Cream Shoppe
When you visit The Music Man, your experience in our Shoppe will last about 45 minutes and you will be able to eat ice cream with a show.
Saturday Show – Albert Music Hall
Albert Music Hall 131 Wells Mill Road, WaretownFive bands will play 30 minute sets of various music.
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Where to Watch Fireworks at the Jersey Shore for Summer 2025
Have an event you’d like included in our guide? You can submit it HERE.
Follow @thejerseyshoregirl_ on Instagram to keep up with all the fun happenings around the area.
Where to Celebrate Cinco De Mayo at the Jersey Shore
The Jersey Shore loves a good celebration. Cinco de Mayo, which recognizes Mexico's victory over the Second French Empire in 1862, is no different. On May 5th, locals search for an authentic Mexican food + drink experience to honor the day. For those looking for traditional Mexican plates, a mariachi band, or a quality margarita, we've compiled a list of the best spots to appreciate Mexican culture. Keep reading for a guide to celebrating Cinco de Mayo at the Jersey Shore.
Events
4th Annual Highlands Fiesta de Mayo Cantina Crawl | 329 Bay Avenue, Highlands
The 4th Annual Highlands Fiesta de Mayo Cantina Crawl is on Saturday, May 3rd, from 12PM-5PM. The $40 ticket can be purchased here, and it includes drink specials and discounted food at restaurants + bars, surprise samplings, and specials at local retail shops. Other day highlights include live mariachi bands and a margarita contest. Check-in is at Huddy Park between 11:30AM-12:30PM.
Downtown Toms River Cinco de Mayo Festival | 53 Main Street, Toms River
The downtown Toms River Cinco de Mayo Festival is on Washington Street. It's happening on May 3rd from 12PM-6PM. Washington Street will have live entertainment options, handcrafters, and different merch vendors. The breweries, distilleries, restaurants, and local businesses will add to the festive vibes. FYI: It's free admission.
Restaurants
10th Ave Burrito | 801 Belmar Plaza, Belmar
10th Ave Burrito serves Mexi-Cali food in downtown Belmar. The local hangout lasts all year because of its chill atmosphere and live music lineup. The menu has modern twists on Mexican food, like its Mexican street corn bites and southwestern burritos. On Cinco de Mayo, 10th Ave Burrito is typically the place to go if looking to go all-out to celebrate the holiday.
Read More: Art Walks, Farmers’ Markets, + More at the Jersey Shore for Spring and Summer 2025
Agave Mexican Restaurant | 138 Myrtle Avenue, Long Branch
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Agave Mexican Restaurant is in the heart of Long Branch. JSG loves the botana sampler, which includes taquitos, homemade guac, and cheese quesadillas. Agave also has a build-your-own burrito option, which could be fun for Cinco de Mayo. FYI: Although typically closed on Mondays, Agave will open its doors on Monday, May 5th, to join the festivities.
Azteca Restaurant | 1633 NJ-71, Belmar
Azteca is an authentic Mexican restaurant in Belmar. For those trying to find a spot to celebrate Cinco de Mayo early, there is an entire huevos (eggs) section on the menu. Other standout features include the large portions and freshly made guacamole.
Barrio Costero | 610 Bangs Avenue, Asbury Park
Barrio Costero serves coastal Mexican food in downtown Asbury Park. It is the spot to go to if itching for a margarita — JSG recommends the classic barrio margy. Barrio is also a good choice if going out with a group to celebrate the holiday, as it has a shared plate concept. IYKYK: The tacos here are addicting, and the Mexican hot chocolate bar is ideal for those with a sweet tooth.
Bar One: Resorts Casino Hotel | 1133 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Bar One is on the casino floor, just steps from the Resorts Casino Hotel lobby. From 2PM until 5PM, Bar One has a mariachi band. Bar One also gives out free Jalapeno beads, with drink specials to celebrate the day. For more details, click here.
El Rey Rosticeria y Restaurante | 708 Emory Street, Asbury Park
El Rey is a hidden gem for Mexican food in Asbury Park. El Rey is close enough to downtown Asbury Park to be convenient. The outdoor seating with tiki-style umbrellas and twinkle lightsis so festive for a Cinco de Mayo dinner. El Rey is known for its birria (get it served in a taco or as a pizza) and tortas con papas (Mexican-style sandwiches).
El Senor Pepper's | 60 Bridge Avenue, Red Bank
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El Señor Pepper's is a mom-and-pop, traditional Mexican restaurant in Red Bank. A popular menu item to test out for the holiday is the burrito texano, which is stuffed with typical burrito ingredients and topped with a special chipotle cream sauce and sour cream. FYI: The horchata at El Senor Pepper's is a must-try in honor of Cinco de Mayo.
Jose's Mexican Restaurant | 101 NJ-71 #2, Spring Lake
Jose's Mexican Restaurant has served the Jersey Shore with its classic Mexican cuisine since 1997. Jose's is a spot where customers can dine in or take out for Cinco de Mayo; if dining in, JSG recommends BYO. Menu highlights include its homemade salsa and guac. The fajitas by the pound make sharing with friends and family an added bonus.
Juanito's Restaurant | 159 Monmouth Street, Red Bank
Juanito's is just a block from Red Bank's train station, which is convenient if you take advantage of its BYOB policy. JSG loves that Juanito's has various salsa flavors. In honor of Cinco de Mayo, we recommend trying the aguacate relleno - half an avocado stuffed with shrimp, scallops, crabmeat, and lobster meat and topped with a creamy jalapeno sauce.
La Sierra Restaurant + Bar | 1621 Main Street, Lake Como
La Sierra is a Mexican restaurant in Lake Como with a festive vibe. La Sierra is covered ceiling to floor in vibrant decor — a good backdrop for one of its margaritas, which locals love. The menu has comforting food options like burritos, quesadillas, and enchiladas garnished with a miniature Mexican flag decal.
Loteria | 632 Mattison Avenue, Asbury Park
Loteria is an authentic taqueria in downtown Asbury Park. The menu is reflective of Mexican street food. It has burritos, tacos, and quesadillas (the blackened shrimp quesadilla is so good). There are plenty of margarita flavors, but the mango is a must-try.
Mathis House | 600 Main Street, Toms River
Mathis House is a Victorian bed + breakfast and tea room in Toms River. On May 5th, from 5PM-8PM, Mathis House is hosting a Cinco de Mayo Mexican dinner buffet. Those attending can expect a ton of decorations to celebrate the holiday, and there will be a five-piece mariachi band. Tickets to attend cost $35 per person (plus tax) and can be purchased here.
Mexitacos | 1070 NJ-34 Suite J, Matawan
Mexitacos is a BYOB restaurant in Matawan that sells traditional Mexican dishes. Mexitacos is the choice for anyone looking for a casual, quick-service spot for Cinco de Mayo. JSG recommends the yucca fries (served with chipotle mayo) and chorizo cheese dip (served with flour tortillas).
Mi Lupita's Kitchen | 78 Bridge Avenue, Red Bank
Mi Lupita's is a staple Mexican restaurant in the Red Bank community. Locals love the birria tacos, churros, and loaded Mexican street fries. Mi Lupita's is BYO, which mixes well with one of its non-alcoholic bebidas, like its margarita-flavored drink.
Oaxaca By The Sea | 123 Main Street, Bradley Beach
Photo Credit: Oaxaca By the Sea
Oaxaca by the Sea is a laid-back Mexican restaurant in Bradley Beach. Oaxaca has fun options like its shrimp chipotle pasta and fried plantains. If celebrating Cinco de Mayo with a group, the Oaxaca platter is a good choice as it comes with tacos, nachos, guacamole, sope, and a quesadilla.
Plaza Tapatia Restaurant | 707 Main Street, Asbury Park
Plaza Tapatia is a cozy restaurant serving authentic Mexican cuisine in Asbury Park. Menu highlights include a vegetarian section and its molcajete de mariscos — a platter of a mix of all kinds of seafood cooked with a choice of sauce + necessary toppings like avocado and bell peppers. Plaza Tapatia has fitting drink options for Cinco de Mayo, such as a tequila list, cervezas, and plenty of margarita options.
Reyna's Mexican Restaurant | 4057 Asbury Avenue, Tinton Falls
Reyna's is in Tinton Falls; it serves Mexican food with a twist. Its menu has all the traditional plates like tacos, enchiladas, burritos, and flautas. Still, it also features options like wings, mozzarella sticks, and the Oaxaca Cheeseburger, which is topped with jalapenos and comes with chipotle mayo. FYI: The twists continue with dessert, with selections like the chimichanga cannoli.
See More: A Guide to Authentic Mexican Restaurants in Hoboken + Jersey City
Spicy Cantina | 500 Boardwalk, Seaside Heights
Spicy Cantina is a lively boardwalk restaurant in Seaside Heights. It's a fun spot for celebrations as it's known for its live music and its large tequila selection. Spicy Cantina has margarita flights, which is a good pick for Cinco de Mayo. The food menu has all the standard Mexican plates, and to live up to its name, the sauces used are labeled mild, hot, or extra hot.
