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Category: Events

Wildwood and North Wildwood events with where to stay.

Christmas in the Wildwoods 2026: Tree Lightings, Parade & Where to Stay

The Wildwoods don’t go dark after Halloween. From Thanksgiving weekend to mid-December, the island lights trees, runs a Christmas parade and turns a few blocks into holiday shopping villages. Here is the 2026 schedule from the Wildwoods tourism calendar, in date order, with the Coastal Collection hotel closest to each spot.

Coastal Sands Inn, Wildwood NJ
A balcony at Coastal Sands Inn, 4110 Atlantic Ave, Wildwood. Open mid-October through April.

The 2026 holiday calendar

Date Event Where
Fri, Nov 27, 5 to 9 p.m. Family Holiday Beach Bonfire 2nd Ave and Surf Ave, North Wildwood
Nov 27 to 29 Christmas in North Wildwood: fire pits, hot chocolate, lights North Wildwood
Sat, Nov 28, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wildwoods Holiday Shopping Village Byrne Plaza and downtown Wildwood
Nov 29; Dec 5 and 6, 13, 19 and 20, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Holidays at HenVille shopping village, with visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus MudHen Brewing Company
Tue, Dec 1, 5 p.m. Wildwood Crest Holiday Tree Lighting Sunset Lake, Wildwood Crest
Fri, Dec 4, 6 p.m. Greater Wildwood Jaycees Christmas Parade North Wildwood and Wildwood
Fri, Dec 4, about 7:30 p.m. Downtown Wildwood Christmas Tree Lighting Byrne Plaza
Sat, Dec 5, 5 p.m. North Wildwood Tree Lighting Hereford Inlet Lighthouse courtyard
Sat, Dec 12, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Family Holiday Celebration and Tree Lighting Wildwoods Convention Center

Dates and times are from the Wildwoods holiday events listing (wildwoodsnj.com). Outdoor events can move for weather, so check the organizer’s page the week of.

Thanksgiving weekend: bonfire and shopping village

Friday night’s beach bonfire in North Wildwood is the easy family outing after a big Thursday dinner. Saturday morning, the Holiday Shopping Village sets up in Byrne Plaza and downtown Wildwood, and on Sunday MudHen Brewing opens the first of its HenVille market days.

Where to stay: Coastal Sands Inn, 4110 Atlantic Ave, is the Coastal Collection hotel open from mid-October through April, a short drive from Byrne Plaza and from the North Wildwood bonfire. Book Coastal Sands

Parade night: Friday, December 4

The Jaycees Christmas Parade starts at 6 p.m. and runs through North Wildwood and Wildwood. Downtown Wildwood lights its tree in Byrne Plaza at about 7:30 p.m. the same night, so you can catch both the same night.

Three tree lightings in five days

Wildwood Crest lights its tree at Sunset Lake on Tuesday, December 1. Downtown Wildwood follows on Friday the 4th, and North Wildwood lights the tree at the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse on Saturday the 5th, with music, refreshments and Santa. If you can only make one, the lighthouse makes the most memorable backdrop.

A holiday day at the Convention Center

On Saturday, December 12, the Wildwoods Convention Center hosts a Family Holiday Celebration and Tree Lighting from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., indoors, so it works in any weather.

Where to stay: Coastal Sands Inn at 4110 Atlantic Ave is a short walk from the Convention Center. Book Coastal Sands

Are the hotels open in December?

Yes, one is. Coastal Sands Inn at 4110 Atlantic Ave is the Coastal Collection hotel open from mid-October through April, including Thanksgiving weekend and all of December. Book Coastal Sands

Planning summer 2027? Beachside Resort, Sunrise Inn and Paradise Inn reopen around April 1, and Sunset Beach Hotel may open earlier in the winter. All four are taking summer 2027 bookings now.

Quick answers

When is the Wildwood Christmas parade in 2026?

The Greater Wildwood Jaycees Christmas Parade is Friday, December 4, 2026, at 6 p.m., through North Wildwood and Wildwood.

When are the tree lightings in the Wildwoods?

Wildwood Crest on Tuesday, December 1 at 5 p.m. at Sunset Lake; downtown Wildwood on Friday, December 4 at about 7:30 p.m. in Byrne Plaza; North Wildwood on Saturday, December 5 at 5 p.m. at the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse; and the Convention Center celebration on Saturday, December 12.

Is there anything to do in Wildwood on Thanksgiving weekend?

Yes: a beach bonfire in North Wildwood on Friday, November 27, the Holiday Shopping Village downtown on Saturday, November 28, and the first HenVille market at MudHen Brewing on Sunday, November 29.

October in Wildwood 2026: Festivals, Halloween Fun and Where to Stay

Summer crowds are gone, the beach is wide open, and October in Wildwood still has something on almost every weekend. Here is the 2026 calendar from the first weekend of October to the first weekend of November, in date order, with the Coastal Collection hotel closest to each event.

Guest room at Coastal Sands Inn, Wildwood NJ
A guest room at Coastal Sands Inn, Wildwood. Open mid-October through April.

The October 2026 calendar at a glance

Date Event Where Admission
Oct 1 to 4 The Race of Gentlemen: pre-1934 hot rods and motorcycles racing on the sand The beach by Morey’s Piers, 3501 Boardwalk See organizer
Oct 2 to 3 Olde Tyme Italian Festival Fox Park, Ocean Ave See organizer
Sat, Oct 10 Wildwood Days Festival (first year) Byrne Plaza, 3400 Pacific Ave Free
Sat, Oct 17 Wildwoods Fall Festival, from 11 a.m. Fox Park, 4500 Ocean Ave Free
Sat, Oct 24 North Wildwood Trunk-or-Treat Halloween Block Party, 2:30 to 5 p.m. Olde New Jersey Ave, North Wildwood Free
Sat, Oct 24 Greater Wildwood Elks Halloween Haunted House 109 W 1st Ave, North Wildwood Free
Oct 30 to 31 Haunted Gym Byrne Community Center, 406 W Youngs Ave See organizer
Sat, Nov 7 5 Mile Beach Half Marathon, 10K and 5K Starts at Rambler Road Park, Wildwood Crest Race registration

Dates come from the event organizers and the Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce calendar. Check the organizer’s page the week of, since fall weather can move outdoor events.

The Race of Gentlemen, October 1 to 4

Pre-1934 cars and motorcycles, built the way they were then, drag race on the beach near Morey’s Piers. It is loud, it is dusty, and it is one of the most photographed weekends of the year. See our TROG page for the weekend schedule.

Where to stay: Coastal Sands Inn, 4110 Atlantic Ave, is the Coastal Collection hotel open from mid-October through April, a short walk from Morey’s Mariner’s Pier. Book Coastal Sands

Olde Tyme Italian Festival, October 2 and 3

Same weekend as TROG, at Fox Park on Ocean Avenue: Italian food, music and a crowd that comes back every year. Our Italian Festival page has more. Fox Park is the same venue as the Fall Festival two weeks later, so the hotels below work for both.

Wildwood Days, Saturday, October 10

A brand-new free festival in Byrne Plaza, the downtown square on Pacific Avenue.

Where to stay: Coastal Sands Inn, 4110 Atlantic Ave, is the Coastal Collection hotel open from mid-October through April, a short drive from Byrne Plaza. Book Coastal Sands

Wildwoods Fall Festival, Saturday, October 17

Fox Park, across from the Wildwoods Convention Center, fills with craft and food vendors, live bands and a beer garden starting at 11 a.m. Admission is free. Our Fall Festival page has the details.

Where to stay: Coastal Sands Inn at 4110 Atlantic Ave, open through April, is under ten minutes on foot from Fox Park. Book Coastal Sands

Halloween weekends with kids

Saturday, October 24 is the family day. North Wildwood’s Trunk-or-Treat runs 2:30 to 5 p.m. along Olde New Jersey Avenue, with music, magic and balloon twisting; decorated cars check in from 1:30 p.m. at 1st and New Jersey Avenues. The Elks Haunted House on West 1st Avenue is the same day. The following weekend, the Byrne Community Center turns its gym into a haunted house on October 30 and 31. North Wildwood is a short drive up the island from Coastal Sands Inn.

Why come in October

Rooms are usually easier to find after Labor Day, the beaches are still free, and the Boardwalk is calmer. Our post on why fall is underrated in Wildwood has more reasons, and the 5 Mile Beach Half Marathon page covers race weekend on November 7.

Quick answers

When is the Wildwoods Fall Festival 2026?

Saturday, October 17, 2026, starting at 11 a.m., at Fox Park, 4500 Ocean Ave, Wildwood. Admission is free.

Is there trick-or-treating in the Wildwoods?

Yes. North Wildwood’s Trunk-or-Treat Halloween Block Party is Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 2:30 to 5 p.m. on Olde New Jersey Avenue.

Are Coastal Collection hotels open in October?

Each hotel’s booking calendar shows the dates it has rooms. If a date shows nothing available, that property may be closed for the season; try another of our hotels or call ahead.


Thinking ahead to the holidays? Here is Christmas in the Wildwoods 2026, from the Thanksgiving bonfire to the tree lightings.

Planning summer 2027? Beachside Resort, Sunrise Inn and Paradise Inn reopen around April 1, and Sunset Beach Hotel may open earlier in the winter. All four are taking summer 2027 bookings now.

Wildwood Crest Summer Music Series – FREE

The Wildwood Crest Summer Music Series brings the sounds of summer to life every Saturday night at 7 p.m at Centennial Park, located at Fern Rd. and Ocean Ave. These can’t miss summer concerts offers a season-long lineup of talented bands, covering a variety of genres from classic rock and Motown to pop hits and country favorites. As the sun sets over the ocean, families, friends, and music lovers gather with beach chairs and blankets to enjoy the free, open-air concerts under the stars. The lively atmosphere, cool sea breeze, and high-energy performances make for an unforgettable evening of family-fun. Whether you’re dancing along or simply soaking in the music, the Wildwood Crest Summer Music Series is the perfect way to celebrate warm summer nights by the shore. The entertainment line-up will be available soon. For more information call 609-523-0202 or visit wildwoodcrest.org

Where to stay in Wildwood

Planning a Wildwood trip? Coastal Collection runs five locally owned hotels a block or two from the beach and boardwalk: Coastal Sands Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, Sunrise Inn and Paradise Inn. Compare them on the hotels in Wildwood page and book directly with the hotel.

Wildwood Beach Patrol “Pier to Pier Challenge” One Mile Apex Ocean Swim & 5k

Wildwood Beach Patrol Headquarters, Lincoln Avenue Beach, Wildwood at 9 a.m. on July 11, 2026. Featuring a one mile apex open swim. Gender and age division awards. Please call 609.522.8258 or check the WBP Facebook page or WildwoodNJ.org for updates. Beach parking is available at the Baker Avenue beach parking lot.

Where to stay in Wildwood

Planning a Wildwood trip? Coastal Collection runs five locally owned hotels a block or two from the beach and boardwalk: Coastal Sands Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, Sunrise Inn and Paradise Inn. Compare them on the hotels in Wildwood page and book directly with the hotel.

Step Back Foundation 3v3 Basketball Tournament

The Step Back Foundation is hosting the 8th annual 3v3 basketball tournament at Allen Park in North Wildwood, 2200 Delaware Ave, July 11-12, 2026. This event will raise money for local student athletes and families in Wildwood. Age brackets include 5th & 6th grade, 7th & 8th grade, 9th – 12th grade, and 18 years and older. 8 a.m. start time. For more information, visit thestepbackfoundation.com

Where to stay in Wildwood

Planning a Wildwood trip? Coastal Collection runs five locally owned hotels a block or two from the beach and boardwalk: Coastal Sands Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, Sunrise Inn and Paradise Inn. Compare them on the hotels in Wildwood page and book directly with the hotel.

NJ State BBQ Championship & Anglesea Blues Festival

Experience the BEST in Barbeque and Blues at this exciting three-day festival held July 10-12, 2026, at 2nd and Olde New Jersey Avenues and surrounding pubs in North Wildwood. The popular festival features live cooking demonstrations, incredible food and top regional and national blues acts on our FREE main stage. Friday: 4 p.m. – 11 p.m.; Saturday: 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Sunday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. For more information call 609.523.6565 or visit NJBBQ.com or AngleseaBlues.com for a detailed schedule of events. Book your stay at here. 

Where to stay in Wildwood

Planning a Wildwood trip? Coastal Collection runs five locally owned hotels a block or two from the beach and boardwalk: Coastal Sands Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, Sunrise Inn and Paradise Inn. Compare them on the hotels in Wildwood page and book directly with the hotel.

Boardwalk Craft Show

Stroll along the southern end of the Wildwoods Boardwalk and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Boardwalk Crafts Shows, where creativity meets the ocean breeze! These events showcase an array of talented artisans and crafters, offering everything from handcrafted jewelry and home décor to unique artwork and beach-inspired treasures. As you explore the many booths lining the southern end of the “boards”, you’ll find one-of-a-kind gifts, delicious homemade treats, and more. Whether you’re looking for the perfect souvenir or simply soaking in the sights and sounds, the Boardwalk Crafts Shows provide a delightful shopping experience with the beautiful backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean and the iconic Wildwoods sign. Saturday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. & Sunday from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. FREE! Rain or shine! For more information, contact Joyce directly by calling 609-522-0198, email joyce@joycegould.com or visit BoardwalkCrafts.com

  • May 23 & 24
  • June 19, 20, & 21
  • July 3, 4, & 5
  • July 11 & 12
  • July 18 & 19
  • July 25 & 26
  • August 1 & 2
  • August 8 & 9
  • September 5 & 6

Where to stay in Wildwood

Planning a Wildwood trip? Coastal Collection runs five locally owned hotels a block or two from the beach and boardwalk: Coastal Sands Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, Sunrise Inn and Paradise Inn. Compare them on the hotels in Wildwood page and book directly with the hotel.

Battle on the Beach Flag Football Tournament

Quickly becoming a family tradition for flag football players from across the region, this awesome summer Jersey Shore beach event features 5 v 5 beach flag football for both boys and girls 5 – 17 years old as well as adults. Held on the beach on July 11 & 12, 2026. Hosted and sponsored by Morey’s Piers! Fee to enter into tournament. For more information visit botb.flagfootballnj.com

Where to stay in Wildwood

Planning a Wildwood trip? Coastal Collection runs five locally owned hotels a block or two from the beach and boardwalk: Coastal Sands Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, Sunrise Inn and Paradise Inn. Compare them on the hotels in Wildwood page and book directly with the hotel.

New Year’s Weekend in Wildwood — Yes, It’s Worth It Off-Season

Most people think Wildwood shuts down after Labor Day, but savvy travelers know that New Year’s Weekend offers something magical — a peaceful coastal retreat with crisp ocean air, cozy fireplaces, and the chance to start fresh by the sea.

Coastal Sands Inn lit up at night, Wildwood NJ
Coastal Sands Inn at night, 4110 Atlantic Ave, Wildwood. One of the five Coastal Collection hotels.

Why Off-Season Wildwood Hits Different

Without the summer crowds, Wildwood transforms into an entirely different destination. The free beaches stretch endlessly without a single umbrella in sight, perfect for contemplative walks and dramatic sunrise photos. The famous boardwalk takes on a nostalgic charm, with iconic neon signs glowing against winter skies and the sound of waves replacing carnival music.

January 1st morning beach walks have become a local tradition — there’s something profoundly refreshing about breathing that salt air while setting intentions for the year ahead. Plus, you’ll have those Instagram-worthy shots all to yourself.

Local Tip: The sunrise on January 1st is spectacular from the beach around 7:15 AM. Bundle up and bring a thermos of coffee for the perfect New Year moment.

What’s Actually Open During New Year’s Weekend

Contrary to popular belief, Wildwood doesn’t completely hibernate in winter. Several restaurants stay open year-round, including the Bolero Resort’s dining options and various pizza joints along New York Avenue. Many bars and taverns host special New Year’s Eve celebrations, creating intimate gatherings rather than massive tourist parties.

The Wildwood Convention Center often hosts events during the holiday weekend, and nearby Cape May offers additional dining and shopping options just a short drive away. Atlantic City’s casinos and entertainment venues are only 45 minutes north, perfect for a New Year’s Eve night out.

Many local establishments offer special winter hours and New Year’s Eve packages. Call ahead to confirm schedules, but don’t let fear of closures stop you — the open spots create a more authentic, local experience.

New Year’s Eve Ideas Beyond the Crowds

Skip the expensive, overcrowded city celebrations. Wildwood offers something better:

  • ✓Private beach bonfire (where permitted) with s’mores and champagne
  • ✓Cozy hotel room celebration with ocean views and room service
  • ✓Local bar hopping for authentic South Jersey hospitality
  • ✓Midnight countdown on the beach (dress warmly!)

Weather Reality Check

January temperatures typically range from 30-45°F, so pack layers, a warm coat, and waterproof boots. The good news? Winter storms often clear quickly, leaving behind incredibly clear skies perfect for stargazing. Indoor heated pools at some hotels provide year-round swimming, and many rooms feature fireplaces or enhanced heating systems.

Local Tip: Book a room with a kitchenette or refrigerator. Stock up on supplies from the local Acme or ShopRite, and you’ll have everything needed for a perfect in-room celebration or beach picnic.

Why Stay Local This New Year’s

Coastal Collection’s locally-owned properties offer something chain hotels can’t — genuine hospitality and insider knowledge from hosts who live here year-round. Our five hotels and private Airbnb rentals are all within walking distance to the boardwalk, so you can easily slip back to your warm room between beach walks and local adventures.

Plus, off-season rates mean you can afford that oceanview room or suite upgrade, turning your New Year’s weekend into a true retreat rather than just another expensive night out.

Stay Steps from the Action.

Five locally-owned Wildwood hotels plus private cottages — all within walking distance of the boardwalk, beach, and Morey’s Piers.

Book Your Wildwood Stay →

Coming down earlier in December? See the Wildwoods Christmas parade and tree lighting dates for 2026.

Where to stay in Wildwood

Where to stay: Coastal Sands Inn, 4110 Atlantic Ave, is the Coastal Collection hotel open from mid-October through April, including New Year’s weekend. Book Coastal Sands

Planning summer 2027? Beachside Resort, Sunrise Inn and Paradise Inn reopen around April 1, and Sunset Beach Hotel may open earlier in the winter. All four are taking summer 2027 bookings now.

Wildwoods Airshow — Free Military Aviation on the Beach

Nothing beats the roar of military jets streaking across the Atlantic coastline while you’re lounging on free Wildwood beaches. The Wildwoods Air Show transforms our stretch of Jersey Shore into an outdoor amphitheater where world-class aviation meets family fun.

Coastal Sands Inn lit up at night, Wildwood NJ
Coastal Sands Inn at night, 4110 Atlantic Ave, Wildwood. One of the five Coastal Collection hotels.

When Military Aviation Takes Center Stage

Held in September since 2025 (September 5-6, 2025, and September 12-13, 2026), the free Wildwoods Air Show, first billed as Thunder Over the Waves, brings military demonstration teams, vintage warbirds, and modern fighter jets to perform aerial acrobatics just offshore. The 2025 show featured the U.S. Army Golden Knights parachute team, and the 2026 show was billed with the U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor Demo Team. 2027 dates have not been announced; the Wildwoods tourism authority said in late 2025 it was in discussions about airshows for 2027 and beyond.

In 2025, Friday was a practice day and Saturday’s main show ran 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; check the official schedule for 2027 days and times. Past shows have mixed fighter jets with historic aircraft such as a P-51 Mustang and a MiG-17 jet.

Local Tip: You can watch from the beach or the Boardwalk. In 2025 the viewing area ran from 22nd Street to Andrews Avenue with Show Center at the Spicer Avenue beach; in 2026 the center of the action was over the ocean between Morey’s Mariner’s Pier and Adventure Pier.

Best Viewing Spots Along the Beach

Since Wildwood’s beaches are completely free, you can claim your spot anywhere along the beach. The beach around Show Center is where the performers aim their routines, so it offers the clearest sightlines.

Many families set up beach umbrellas and coolers early in the morning to secure prime real estate. The boardwalk also provides elevated viewing, though beach-level offers that immersive experience of feeling the jet engines’ rumble.

Admission and Family Tips

The show itself is free to watch; special VIP tickets are also available. Check the Wildwoods events calendar before you go for the final performer lineup.

Kids love the parachute acts; the 2025 show opened with the Golden Knights’ flag jump during the National Anthem.

The Boardwalk’s food stands are a short walk from the sand, and many visitors pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach while watching the show.

Why Coastal Collection Makes Airshow Weekend Perfect

Staying at any of our five locally-owned hotels puts you within walking distance of the boardwalk and prime beach viewing areas. Whether you choose the Coastal Sands Inn, Paradise Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, or Sunrise Inn, you’ll be a few blocks from the beach and the Boardwalk.

Our properties book up quickly during airshow weekend, so reserve early. All five of our hotels are a few blocks from the beach; families often pick Beachside Resort for its pool, and others prefer our quieter inns.

Local Tip: Arrive the day before: in 2025 Friday was a practice day, and an extra night means you can claim a beach spot early on show day.

The Wildwoods Air Show represents everything great about our destination: free world-class entertainment, beautiful beaches, and easy access to food and fun. When military precision meets Jersey Shore hospitality, you get an unforgettable weekend that brings families back year after year.

Stay a Few Blocks from the Action.

Five locally-owned Wildwood hotels plus private cottages — all within walking distance of the boardwalk, beach, and Morey’s Piers.

Book Your Wildwood Stay →

Where to stay in Wildwood

Planning a Wildwood trip? Coastal Collection runs five locally owned hotels a few blocks from the beach and the Boardwalk: Coastal Sands Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, Sunrise Inn and Paradise Inn. Compare them on the hotels in Wildwood page and book directly with the hotel.

Your Wildwood Escape Starts Here.

Two ways to plan your stay!