Isiah Christie 
If there’s any sign summer is around the corner, it’s Memorial Day Weekend. Although taking a trip is a common way to celebrate the time off, there’s nothing wrong with a good staycation, and down the Jersey Shore, there are so many things to do. From events to activities, there are plenty of options around the corner this MDW. Continue reading for the official guide to events at the Jersey Shore for this Memorial Day Weekend 2026.
Editor’s note: DYK? We have a full calendar of local events that is FREE to use! Check out what’s listed and add your own.
The Stone Pony Double Header | 913 Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park
Friday, May 22 + Saturday, May 23
The Stone Pony will have two live entertainment events during MDW. On Friday, May 22nd, it will host a live set from the band Joe Russo’s Almost Dead. On Saturday, May 23rd, it will host Shadow of the City, a live music fundraiser. $1 from each ticket sold will be donated to The Ally Coalition to support LGBTQ+ youth.
Wildwoods International Kite Festival | Rio Grand Avenue, Wildwood
Friday, May 22 – Sunday, May 25
The Wildwoods International Kite Festival is an MDW event featuring kite sales, a Friday night social kite club, illuminated kites, family games, and more activities over the four-day slate. It is free for spectators.
Read More: A Guide to Spring + Summer Flea Markets at the Jersey Shore
Jumpstart to Summer | 300 Ocean Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach
Friday, May 22 | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk is kicking off the summer with live entertainment, brand activations, and interactive experiences. It is free and open to the public.
Flags of Liberty Ceremony | Ocean Avenue, Wildwood
Friday, May 22 | 10:00 AM
This Memorial Day Weekend tribute will feature 70+ American flags being draped over the casket of a veteran in honor of those who have served.
Memorial Day Weekend at Cape May Brewing Company | 1288 Hornet Road, West Cape May
Friday, May 22 – Monday, May 25 | 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Cape May Brewing Company is hosting an event to kick off MDW, with food trucks + live music. All veterans and active duty members with ID will receive a discount.
Seaside Heights vs. Seaside Park Tug of War | Lincoln Avenue Beach, Seaside Heights
Friday, May 22 | 3:00 PM
This event is a non-profit fundraiser that gives residents in Seaside Heights + Seaside Park an opportunity to compete in games, going towards a good cause. All proceeds from the event will directly benefit the Seaside Heights and Seaside Park Fire Departments and Tri-Boro First Aid Squad.
Memorial Day Weekend Boardwalk Craft Show | 3000 Pacific Avenue, Wildwood
Saturday, May 23 | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM + Sunday, May 24 | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
The Wildwood MDW Boardwalk Craft Show is an opportunity to see an array of the Jersey Shore’s artisans and crafters, and is free to the public.
Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival | 175 Oceanport Avenue, Oceanport
Saturday, May 23 – Monday, May 25
Foodie enthusiasts will have a chance to participate in the Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival this MDW, featuring over 30 food trucks, live music, and family entertainment.
Memorial Beach Challenge for 31 Heroes | 9th Street Beach, Ocean City
Saturday, May 23 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
For those seeking some activity, this Memorial Day Weekend-themed event features a beach obstacle course and soft sand adventure race. Little ones can also participate in the kids’ fun run.
Hoboken Travel Club Belmar Beach Day | 601 Main Street, Belmar
Saturday, May 23 | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
The Hoboken Travel Club is a group that plans trips to different areas, including beach trips, hikes, camping weekends, and spontaneous day trips. This MDW, it’ll be headed to Belmar Beach for a social day by the water, with round-trip transportation and a beach badge included.
Memorial Day Weekend Atlantic City Bud Crawl | 19 South Tennessee Avenue, Atlantic City
Saturday, May 23 | 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
This event will give participants a chance to blend cannabis culture, tourism, and nightlife into one. 8+ dispensary locations, complimentary venue entries, and shuttle rides are included with a ticket purchase.
Spring Lake Beach Pavilion Yoga | 410 Ocean Avenue North, Spring Lake
Friday, May 24 + Saturday, May 25
Yoga classes overlooking the waterfront will be held at the South End Pavilion on Spring Lake Beach all week, including MDW. To book an appointment, tickets are $25.
Run to Remember | Wildwood
Sunday, May 24 | 7:30 AM
North Wildwood’s Annual Run to Remember is held to benefit veterans and those who have lost loved ones in service. All proceeds from the event are donated to veterans. Check-in begins at 7:30 AM and the race begins at 8:30 AM.
Cookies + Milk Festival | 500 Arnold Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach
Sunday, May 24 | 3:00 PM
The Cookies + Milk Festival is a themed festival with curated cookies + milk pairings, games, prizes, a flavor suggestion station, and photo opportunities.
New Jersey Jerk Festival | 655 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick
Sunday, May 24 | 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
The New Jersey Jerk Festival is a Caribbean food, music, and culture experience with a variety of foods, live entertainment, pop-ups from local artisans, and a game zone.
Freehold Borough Memorial Day Parade | Corner of Brinkerhoff Avenue + Main Street
Monday, May 25 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
The Freehold Memorial Day Parade will feature bands, fire departments, military units, veteran groups, EMS squads, youth groups, and more. It will start on the corner of Brinkerhoff Avenue and Main Street.
Ocean City Memorial Day Service | 5th + Wesley Avenue, Ocean City
Monday, May 25 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
This event in Ocean City will be held on Memorial Day to honor those who have passed away in service.
The MET Chorus Artists Perform | 120 Long Beach Boulevard, Loveladies
Monday, May 25 | 6:30 PM
Singers from the MET Chorus Artists will be gathering for a Memorial Day performance honoring veterans and those who have lost their lives in service.
See More: What’s the Weather in New Jersey for Memorial Day Weekend?
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