Category: Events

Every September, North Wildwood turns Celtic for the Irish Fall Festival, one of the biggest Irish weekends on the Jersey Shore.

What Makes This Festival Special

The Irish Fall Festival fills North Wildwood’s Anglesea section, around Olde New Jersey Avenue, with three days of Irish music, a parade on Surf Avenue and rows of vendor tents. It is run by the Cape May County Ancient Order of Hibernians. Note that it is in North Wildwood, not on the Wildwood Boardwalk.

The festival runs Friday through Sunday in late September: the 2026 festival was September 25-27, and the 2027 festival is set for September 24-26. Admission is completely free, making it accessible for families and groups of all sizes.

Entertainment and Activities

Expect Irish musicians on stage all weekend and the parade along Surf Avenue.

It is free and outdoors, so it works for families: come for the parade, stay for the music and the tents.

Food and Shopping

Look for Irish favorites at the food tents, such as:

• ✓Fresh-made Irish soda bread and scones
• ✓Traditional fish and chips with malt vinegar
• ✓Bangers and mash with authentic Irish sausages
• ✓Irish stew served in bread bowls

Rows of vendor tents sell Irish gifts and goods along the festival streets.

Why Stay With Coastal Collection

Our five locally-owned hotels and private Airbnb rentals put you within a short drive from the festival in North Wildwood. After a full day of Celtic celebrations, you can retreat to comfortable accommodations a few blocks from the beach and the Boardwalk, whether you choose the family-friendly Paradise Inn or Sunset Beach Hotel.

Late September is a good time for Wildwood’s free beaches, with the summer crowds gone. The combination of authentic Irish culture and classic Jersey Shore charm creates an unforgettable autumn getaway.

Stay a Few Blocks from the Beach and the Boardwalk.

Five locally-owned Wildwood hotels plus private cottages — all within walking distance of the boardwalk, beach, and Morey’s Piers. Coastal Sands Inn stays open through the winter; the other four hotels reopen each April.

Book Your Wildwood Stay →

Nothing says summer like celebrating America’s birthday at the Jersey Shore, and Wildwood knows how to throw a party that’ll make your holiday weekend absolutely unforgettable.

Fireworks That Light Up the Entire Island

Wildwood’s July 4th fireworks display is legendary along the Jersey Shore. The show launches from the beach at 26th Street around 9:15 PM, sending colorful bursts over the Atlantic Ocean that reflect beautifully on the water. What makes this special? You can watch from anywhere along our free beaches — no tickets, no fees, just pure American celebration under the stars.

The best viewing spots stretch from 22nd to 30th Street, where families spread blankets on the sand hours before showtime. Many folks grab dinner at one of the nearby restaurants and then stroll down to claim their perfect spot.

Boardwalk Festivities All Weekend Long

The Wildwood Boardwalk transforms into a red, white, and blue celebration starting July 3rd. Street performers, live bands, and patriotic decorations create an electric atmosphere that runs well past midnight. The amusement piers — Morey’s Surfside, Mariner’s Landing, and Adventure Pier — typically offer special July 4th promotions and extended hours.

Don’t miss the annual bike decorating contest on July 4th morning, where kids (and adults!) show off their most creative patriotic rides. Registration usually starts around 10 AM near the Wildwoods Convention Center.

Beach Activities and Water Fun

July 4th weekend means perfect beach weather, and Wildwood’s wide, sandy beaches offer endless entertainment. Beach volleyball nets pop up everywhere, families organize their own softball games, and the ocean temperature is finally warm enough for extended swimming sessions.

Food, Drinks, and Local Favorites

July 4th weekend brings out the best in Wildwood’s food scene. The boardwalk vendors serve up classics like Curley’s Fries, Johnson’s Popcorn, and fresh-squeezed lemonade. For sit-down meals, many restaurants offer special holiday menus featuring crab cakes, lobster rolls, and all-American BBQ.

Several beachfront bars host rooftop parties with live DJs and drink specials. The key is making reservations early — July 4th weekend is one of the busiest times of the summer.

Why Stay Local Makes All the Difference

Celebrating July 4th in Wildwood means dealing with massive crowds and limited parking — unless you’re staying walking distance to everything. Our five locally-owned Coastal Collection hotels put you right in the heart of the action, so you can easily pop back to your room to rest, recharge, or grab forgotten sunscreen.

While visitors fight for parking spaces that cost $20+ per day, you’ll be strolling to the fireworks, enjoying a quick shower between beach and dinner, and avoiding the traffic nightmares that come with trying to leave the island after the celebration ends.

Stay a Few Blocks from the Beach and the Boardwalk.

Five locally-owned Wildwood hotels plus private cottages — all within walking distance of the boardwalk, beach, and Morey’s Piers. Coastal Sands Inn stays open through the winter; the other four hotels reopen each April.

Book Your Wildwood Stay →

Step back in time to poodle skirts, classic cars and rock ‘n’ roll at Wildwood’s annual ’50s, ’60s & ’70s Weekend, run each October by the Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce, with a classic car show and a Friday night dance party.

Classic Car Show Spectacle

The heart of the weekend is the classic car show at the circle in front of the Wildwoods Convention Center and at Fox Park, on Ocean Avenue (9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in 2025). Owners show off their restored classics and visitors walk among them.

What makes it special is the access: you can walk right up to the cars, chat with their owners and hear the stories behind each restoration.

Sock Hops and Live Entertainment

On Friday night the Wildwoods Convention Center hosts a dance party in the spirit of the ’50s and ’60s sock hops (tickets were $20 in 2025).

For this year’s schedule and tickets, check the Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce or the event listing on WildwoodsNJ.com.

Vintage Shopping and Dining

The weekend falls in mid-October, when many Boardwalk rides and shops have cut back to fall hours or closed for the season, so check hours before you plan around a ride or a shop.

Perfect Weekend Base

In mid-October, Coastal Sands Inn (4110 Atlantic Ave) is the Coastal Collection hotel that is open, a short walk from the Convention Center and Fox Park. The other four hotels close for the off-season and reopen in April.

After the Friday dance party you can walk back to your room, with no parking to worry about, and Wildwood’s free beaches are a few blocks away for a fall walk between car show visits.

Whether you love classic cars, 1950s culture or just a fall weekend at the shore, the ’50s, ’60s & ’70s Weekend is a good reason to visit Wildwood in October.

Stay a Few Blocks from the Beach and the Boardwalk.

Five locally-owned Wildwood hotels plus private cottages — all within walking distance of the boardwalk, beach, and Morey’s Piers. Coastal Sands Inn stays open through the winter; the other four hotels reopen each April.

Book Your Wildwood Stay →

With three action-packed piers stretching across six blocks of Wildwood’s famous boardwalk, Morey’s Piers offers more than 100 rides and attractions. But which ones deserve your precious vacation time?

Adventure Pier: The Thrill Seeker’s Paradise

Located at Spencer Avenue and the Boardwalk, Adventure Pier packs the biggest punch for adrenaline junkies. The crown jewel here is The Great Nor’Easter, a suspended roller coaster that swings riders through loops and corkscrews high above the beach.

Don’t miss The “it” ride — a 90-foot tower swing that spins riders in thrilling circles while offering breathtaking ocean views. The Runaway Tram, inspired by Wildwood’s historic Tramcar, delivers family-friendly thrills with twists, turns, and surprising drops that keep everyone entertained.

Surfside Pier: Classic Boardwalk Fun

The iconic Giant Wheel dominates the skyline at Surfside Pier, offering stunning panoramic views of Wildwood’s coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. This 156-foot Ferris wheel is worth the wait, especially at sunset when the sky paints everything golden.

Families with younger kids will love The Sea Serpent roller coaster — thrilling enough for older siblings but not too intense for the little ones. The Sky Ships provide a gentler nautical adventure, perfect for kids who want to feel like they’re soaring above the pier.

Mariner’s Pier: Something for Everyone

The middle pier strikes the perfect balance with attractions spanning all thrill levels. The Flitzer offers a wild mouse-style coaster experience with hairpin turns and sudden drops, while the spinning tea cups and carousel provide timeless boardwalk charm.

Skip These Common Wait Traps

While most rides deliver great experiences, some consistently have longer lines than they’re worth. The smaller kiddie rides often have surprisingly long waits relative to their brief duration. Instead, focus on the signature attractions that define each pier’s personality.

• ✓Hit major coasters early morning or late evening
• ✓Save the Giant Wheel for sunset views
• ✓Use meal times for popular family rides

Your Perfect Pier Base

Staying with Coastal Collection Hotels puts you within walking distance of all three piers, so you can easily pop back to your room for breaks or switch between different pier experiences throughout your visit. Our five locally-owned properties — from the Coastal Sands Inn to Sunset Beach Hotel, plus private Airbnb rentals — mean you’re never more than a few blocks from the boardwalk action.

Stay a Few Blocks from the Beach and the Boardwalk.

Five locally-owned Wildwood hotels plus private cottages — all within walking distance of the boardwalk, beach, and Morey’s Piers. Coastal Sands Inn stays open through the winter; the other four hotels reopen each April.

Book Your Wildwood Stay →

Picture this: bare feet in the sand, country music filling the salty air, and three days of non-stop entertainment right on Wildwood’s famous beach. The Barefoot Country Music Fest has become one of New Jersey’s most anticipated summer events, transforming our beloved shoreline into country music paradise.

What Makes Barefoot Country Music Fest Special

This isn’t your typical concert venue — it’s a multi-day beach festival that takes full advantage of Wildwood’s stunning coastline. The main stage sits right on the sand, creating an unforgettable backdrop where the ocean meets incredible live music. Past lineups have featured major country stars alongside up-and-coming artists, giving festival-goers everything from chart-topping hits to hidden gems.

The festival typically runs over a long weekend in summer, with general admission tickets starting around $75 per day and VIP packages offering premium viewing areas, exclusive bars, and meet-and-greet opportunities. What sets this event apart is the relaxed beach atmosphere — you can literally dig your toes in the sand while watching your favorite artists perform.

Beyond the Main Stage

While the headlining acts draw the crowds, Barefoot Country Music Fest offers much more than just concerts. Food vendors serve everything from classic boardwalk treats to BBQ favorites, craft beer tents feature local New Jersey breweries, and merchandise booths let you take home festival memories. Many attendees make it a full beach day, arriving early to claim their spot and staying late for after-parties.

The festival also partners with local Wildwood businesses, creating special events at nearby restaurants and bars. The boardwalk comes alive with country music fans, street performers, and that infectious festival energy that makes everyone feel like they’re part of something special.

Planning Your Festival Weekend

Smart festival-goers know that location is everything. Staying within walking distance of both the beach venue and the famous Wildwood Boardwalk means you can easily pop back to your room to freshen up, grab a quick rest, or change clothes between shows. No dealing with traffic, expensive parking, or long rides back to distant hotels.

Consider booking your accommodations as early as possible — festival weekends fill up fast in Wildwood. Whether you prefer the classic charm of a locally-owned inn or the flexibility of a private vacation rental, having a home base you can easily walk to makes all the difference in your festival experience.

Making the Most of Your Wildwood Weekend

The beauty of attending Barefoot Country Music Fest is that you’re not just getting a concert — you’re getting a full Wildwood beach vacation. Start your mornings with sunrise walks on the free beaches, spend your afternoons at the festival, then explore the boardwalk’s rides, games, and famous Curley’s Fries in the evening.

With Coastal Collection’s five distinctive properties plus private Airbnb options, you can find the perfect fit for your group size and style. From couples seeking a romantic beach getaway with great music to families wanting easy access to both the festival and Wildwood’s famous attractions, staying local means you’re always just minutes from the action — and just minutes from a comfortable place to recharge.

Stay a Few Blocks from the Beach and the Boardwalk.

Five locally-owned Wildwood hotels plus private cottages — all within walking distance of the boardwalk, beach, and Morey’s Piers. Coastal Sands Inn stays open through the winter; the other four hotels reopen each April.

Book Your Wildwood Stay →

Memorial Day Weekend marks the official start of summer in Wildwood, and 2025 promises to be packed with traditions, beach fun, and that unmistakable Jersey Shore energy that makes this weekend so special.

Friday Kicks Off with Island Traditions

The weekend begins with two powerful ceremonies that showcase Wildwood’s heart. At noon on Friday, May 24th, head to the beach at Andrews Avenue (right next to the Wildwoods Convention Center) for the Official Unlocking of the Ocean Ceremony. This beloved tradition officially welcomes summer with sandy toes and community celebration.

Later that evening at 6:00 PM, don’t miss the Flags of Liberty Memorial Day Ceremony at Byrne Plaza in Downtown Wildwood. This moving tribute honors our service members and sets a meaningful tone for the weekend’s festivities.

Water Adventures and Beach Thrills

Memorial Day Weekend brings the full lineup of water excursions back to Wildwood’s shores. Atlantic Parasail kicks off their season with breathtaking flights above our pristine coastline—imagine soaring 400 feet above those famous free beaches while spotting dolphins below.

For family-friendly thrills, banana boat rides return with their signature bouncy rides across the waves. These excursions typically launch from the beach near the Convention Center, making them incredibly convenient if you’re staying at any of our five locally-owned hotels.

Boardwalk Comes Alive

Memorial Day Weekend signals the full reopening of Wildwood’s iconic 2.5-mile boardwalk. From thrilling rides at Morey’s Piers to classic boardwalk treats like Curley’s Fries and Johnson’s Popcorn, everything returns for the season. The weekend typically features extended hours and special promotions to celebrate the summer kickoff.

Evening entertainment ramps up too, with live music, street performers, and that infectious boardwalk energy that keeps families strolling well into the night. The best part? You can enjoy it all without the peak summer crowds while still experiencing that full Wildwood magic.

Beach Days Made Easy

Wildwood’s expansive free beaches are at their Memorial Day best—wide, clean, and perfect for the weekend’s festivities. Beach tags aren’t required, so you can spend your vacation budget on boardwalk fun instead of beach fees. The sand is typically in prime condition after spring maintenance, and the ocean temperature starts becoming comfortable for brave swimmers.

• ✓Pack layers—Jersey Shore weather can change quickly in late May
• ✓Bring cash for boardwalk vendors and parking meters
• ✓Book dinner reservations early—restaurants get busy during holiday weekends

Memorial Day Weekend 2025 promises to be the perfect blend of meaningful tradition and pure Jersey Shore fun. From solemn ceremonies to thrilling water rides, Wildwood delivers that special holiday weekend experience that creates lasting family memories.

Stay a Few Blocks from the Beach and the Boardwalk.

Five locally-owned Wildwood hotels plus private cottages — all within walking distance of the boardwalk, beach, and Morey’s Piers. Coastal Sands Inn stays open through the winter; the other four hotels reopen each April.

Book Your Wildwood Stay →