2024 Memorial Day Weekend Festivities at the NJ Shore!

As the unofficial start of summer, Memorial Day Weekend at the New Jersey Shore holds a special place in the hearts of locals and tourists alike. It’s a time-honored tradition marked by bustling boardwalk festivities and peaceful beachside ceremonies, bringing the Jersey Shore to life with a diverse range of events catering to various tastes and preferences.

Whether you’re in the mood for thrilling amusement park rides, delicious food festivals, or quiet moments of reflection to honor our nation’s heroes, there’s something for everyone along this scenic coastline. Below, let’s discover a curated selection of the most exciting events taking place at the New Jersey Shore this Memorial Day Weekend, ensuring your holiday is brimming with sunshine, ocean waves, and unforgettable memories. Be sure to explore our last-minute specials for Memorial Day Weekend!

NJ Shore Memorial Day Ceremonies and Parades

Above all, we pay homage to the courageous individuals who have sacrificed their lives in service to our nation. Along the New Jersey Shore, communities unite to honor and remember these fallen heroes through solemn ceremonies and patriotic parades. Each event holds profound meaning, symbolizing the unity and gratitude inherent in this holiday. Join us as we showcase a range of Memorial Day ceremonies and parades taking place across the Jersey Shore, providing moments for contemplation, tribute, and respect.

Avalon Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony

Monday, May 27 at 9 am

Parade Route 33rd & Dune Dr. heading North to 21st & Dune Dr. 

To begin with, a parade will step off at 32nd Street and Dune Drive at 9 a.m. and proceed north to Veterans Plaza, at 21st Street and Dune Drive.

Cape May Memorial Day Remembrance

Monday, May 27 at 11 am

Soldiers and Sailors Park, Gurney Street and Columbia Avenue, Cape May 

Please join us on Monday, May 29th at Noon for the Memorial Day Remembrance and opening of Soldiers and Sailors Park, located at Gurney Street and Columbia Avenue. Immediately following the ceremony in the park, the Flotilla 82 of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary will present a flower boat launch on the Gurney Street Beach to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for America. 

North Wildwood Memorial Day Ceremony 

Monday, May 27 at 1 pm 

A Memorial Day Ceremony will be held at the North Wildwood Veterans Monument, located at Spruce and New York Avenues at 1 p.m., hosted by the VFW Post 5941.

Ocean City Memorial Day Service 

Monday, May 27 at 11 am  

Attend the Memorial Day Service at Veterans Memorial Park, which will honor those who have given their lives in service to our country. Join community leaders coupled with local residents in paying tribute at this hour-long ceremony.

Sea Isle Memorial Day Ceremony

​​Monday, May 27 from 10 to 11 am  

Mayor Leonard Desiderio will lead Sea Isle City’s 2023 Memorial Day Ceremony, at Veterans Park, JFK Boulevard and Landis Avenue. The gathering will also include members of City Council, local veterans, religious leaders and other dignitaries. 

Stone Harbor Fire Department Memorial Day Service

Monday, May 27 from 11 to 11:30 am

Join us in honoring the men and women of our military who have given their lives for our country. Ceremony at 96th St. & the beach. Firefighters ceremony at the firehouse at 11:00 a.m. To conclude, a parade on 96th Street beginning at 12 noon.

Stone Harbor Legion Memorial Day Parade

Monday, May 29 from 11 to 11:30 am

11:00 am Parade
The route starts at 100th Street and Third Ave; North to 96th Street; East on 96th Street to Women’s Civic Club. Following the parade at 11:30, head over to the Memorial Day Ceremony at Women’s Civic Club of Stone Harbor.

Wildwood Memorial Day Ceremony

Monday, May 27 at 11 am  

American Legion Post 184, 4200 Atlantic Ave 

The annual Memorial Day ceremony will take place on the front lawn of American Legion Post 184, Wildwood to honor our nation’s fallen heroes. The ceremony begins at 11 a.m. 

Atlantic City Beach Ball Drop

Kick off Memorial Day Weekend in style at Atlantic City’s Beach Ball Drop event! Join us from May 24th to May 27th for a lineup of exciting promotions coupled with activities. On May 24th, festivities start with the official summer kick-off celebration. Enjoy live entertainment on the boardwalk from noon to 5 PM. The highlight? The Beach Ball Drop at 5 PM, featuring over 5,000 colorful beach balls pouring out from a giant net. In addition, enjoy a special guest appearance by Kelsey Grammer! Ring in the holiday weekend with family fun. Finally, stop by The Glitter Bar for grand opening festivities from noon to 2 AM, with glitter dancers, face painting, and DJ Gary from 9 PM to 2 AM. In summary, you don’t want to miss out on this unforgettable lineup of New Jersey Shore Memorial Day Weekend events in Atlantic City!

Cape May Music Festival

Begin Memorial Day Weekend with the enchanting sounds of the Cape May Music Festival! Classical music lovers can enjoy performances by various ensembles, including the New York Chamber Ensemble coupled with New Jersey Symphony Chamber Players. Experience chamber concerts that promise to captivate audiences. For a full symphonic experience, attend the grand finale concert at Cape May Convention Hall. Also, don’t miss the return of New York-based BAILEN, offering their signature blend of stellar musicianship and powerhouse vocals. Finally, close out the festival with the debut of the Cape May Cabaret featuring Erich Cawalla coupled with the Uptown Band Orchestra at Cape May Convention Hall. With diverse musical genres, the Cape May Music Festival promises an unforgettable weekend of melodies and magical moments.

Long Beach Township’s 125th Anniversary Celebration
Saturday, May 25th – 5 pm to 9 pm

Get ready to kick off summer in style at the Long Beach Township’s 125th Anniversary Celebration & Summer Kickoff on May 25th! Join us for an evening of festivities starting at 5 pm. Additionally, you’ll enjoy live music, free kids’ activities, and an array of delicious food and beverages available for purchase. Hosted by the LBI Chamber and Fantasy Island Amusement Park, this event promises fun for the whole family. Furthermore, cap off the night with a spectacular fireworks display that will light up the sky and mark the beginning of a memorable summer season. Don’t miss out on this special occasion as we celebrate 125 years of history and community on Long Beach Island!

Monmouth Park Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival

Kicking off our list of Jersey Shore Memorial Day Weekend events with flavor! Get your taste buds ready for the ultimate culinary experience at the Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival, presented by the Asbury Park Press! From May 25th to 27th, join us for a gastronomic extravaganza featuring over 30 mouth-watering food trucks. Serving up a delectable array of delights, from savory lobster rolls to cheesy mac & cheese and indulgent fried Oreos. While you indulge in delicious bites, groove to the rhythm of live music from 12-4pm on two stages each day. Saturday’s lineup will be announced soon. Plus, don’t miss our FREE Family Fun Day events from 12-4pm on Saturday and Sunday. To conclude, enjoy clowns, face painters, pony rides, and a bounce house in the picnic area. Don’t miss your chance to savor without a doubt, many of the best flavors of the Jersey Shore. Mark your calendars and enjoy a weekend of food, fun, and festivities!

North Wildwood Preston & Steve Broadcast Live from Keenan’s 2024

Start your summer off right with WMMR and Coors Light at Keenan’s North Wildwood. Join us for a laid-back evening, where you can unwind with a cold Coors Light and enjoy the entertainment. If this is your first time, seize the opportunity! Keep reading to learn more about what’s in store. And if you’ve attended a Preston & Steve broadcast at Keenan’s before, we’re thrilled to welcome you back. Plus, there’s an exciting chance to win Cut The Line Passes and a Reserved Table for you and three guests at the live broadcast! Each lucky winner will receive a bucket of Coors Light for the table and a case of Coors Light for your beach house. Tune in to Preston & Steve on Fridays: 4/26, 5/3, and 5/10 for your shot at winning.

OCNJ Memorial Beach Challenge

Dive into the excitement of the 2024 Memorial Beach Challenge on Ocean City’s beachfront! Scheduled for Saturday, May 25th, at 7:35 a.m., this event promises a day of action coupled with community. Located at the Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk, Ocean City, NJ 08226, participants plan to begin with a wreath-laying ceremony and the national anthem. Then, conquer obstacle course races or watch kids dash through a fun run. Beyond competition, support our service members and veterans, with proceeds benefiting 31Heroes. Join us for fitness, and camaraderie, meanwhile honoring our brave veterans.

OCNJ Business Persons Plunge

Every Memorial Day Weekend, the Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce, alongside the City of Ocean City and Ocean City Beach Patrol officials, kick off the summer season by ceremoniously “unlocking the ocean” with a giant wooden key. Following this tradition, representatives from various Ocean City businesses and organizations joyfully take the inaugural plunge into the freshly opened waters, fully clothed but certainly spirited. Mark your calendars for the 2024 event, set to take place on Friday, May 24th, at noon on the beach near the Ocean City Music Pier. All are welcome to join in the festivities. If you’re planning to take the plunge, be sure to arrive by 11:30 AM to participate in the fun!

Stone Harbor Turtle Trot 5K

Prepare to lace up your sneakers for the annual Turtle Trot in Stone Harbor! Hosted by the Stone Harbor Chamber of Commerce, this event welcomes runners, and families, altogether with beach enthusiasts. Starting bright and early on Memorial Day Weekend, the 5K run begins at 8 am on Sunday. Afterwards, the 5K will be followed by the 2-mile Fun Walk at 8:05 am. Above all, a portion of proceeds will benefit The Wetlands Institute’s Diamondback Terrapin Program. Whether racing, walking, volunteering, or cheering, there’s something for everyone. Lastly, registered participants receive a Turtle Trot t-shirt, so sign up early! Don’t miss this cherished Stone Harbor tradition, rain or shine! Click here to register and for more event details.

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Wildwoods International Kite Festival

Prepare for the colorful spectacle of the Wildwoods International Kite Festival! Set against the stunning beach backdrop, this event offers high-flying fun for all ages. Festivities kick off on Friday with the Unlocking of the Ocean event, followed by the opening of the Kite Sales Tent and to conclude with a Friday Night Social. Saturday and Sunday feature large inflatable kites, team flying displays, coupled with family games. Silent and Loud Auctions are open on Saturday, then concluding the weekend, Monday hosts the World Indoor Kite Exhibition. Best of all, it’s FREE for spectators! Don’t miss out – visit SkyFestivals.com for details!

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