NJIB’s Guide to 20+ New Jersey Events July 17 – 19, 2025
New Jersey Isn’t Boring’s Guide to New Jersey Events July 17th – 19th is your go-to source for the best events happening across this great state! From fun festivals and food-filled weekends to family-friendly expos, live entertainment, and unique seasonal celebrations – there’s plenty to do this weekend!
Always check the weather and the event links before you attend in case of cancellations and rescheduling.
For more New Jersey events throughout the year, check out our Event Guide
For more New Jersey adventures and New Jersey Events, be sure to follow along on Instagram, @newjerseyisntboring, and Insta Stories! Don’t forget to tag your own NJ fun with #NJisntBoring.
Bonus! See NJIB at Bell Works Fresh on Wednesday, July 15th.
Additional Bonus! Looking for free events that support local farmers, bakers, and makers? Here is our Guide to 100+ NJ Summer Farmers’ Markets.
NJIB’s Guide to New Jersey Events July 14 – 19:
The Newark Black Film Festival
Now – August 5
The Newark Black Film Festival (NBFF)is one of the nation’s defining voices on behalf of independent film. The festival is a showcase for films that focus on the experiences and concerns of contemporary African Americans, as well as an outlet for films about the African-American experience from earlier eras. Each film selection encompasses a wide range of cinematic forms and formulas, from documentary to the avant-garde. The festival provides emerging filmmakers, writers, directors and producers with a high profile outlet for their work.
Newark Museum, 49 Washington St, Newark, NJ
New Brunswick Restaurant Week
Now – July 25
New Brunswick restaurants offer the perfect night out, giving you all-new ways to enjoy your dining experience. These restaurants have cooked up some amazing offers to get the foodie in each of us out the door and dive into new experiences and flavors. Visit a new spot that’s sure to surprise you with delight, or stick with an old favorite where your tastebuds will be satisfied and your heart will be pleased by the local support.
New Brunswick, NJ
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Festival
July 13 – 18
The Our Lady of Mount Carmel Society of Hammonton will be holding their annual Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Festival located at the festival grounds on Mt Carmel Lane. The Hammonton Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Festival is the longest running Italian festival in the country and features live music and DJ entertainment each night, plenty of mouth watering food and treats, beer garden, carnival midway with exciting rides and games for all ages by Amusements of America, Wall of Death motorcycle thrill show (back by popular demand!), and a whole lot more!
1 Mt Carmel Ln, Hammonton, NJ
Cost: Admission to the carnival grounds is free. Pay one Price unlimited ride wristbands are available
Newark LGBTQ Pride Festival
July 13 – 19
The Newark LGBTQ Pride Festival is a highly anticipated event in the region that offers a variety of social, educational, political, and cultural programs for youth, adults, families, and allies. It is produced by partnering with Greater Newark’s LGBTQ organizations and its allies.
Newark, NJ
Cost: Free and ticketed events
Belmar’s Annual Sandcastle Contest
July 15, 8 am
The Annual New Jersey Sandcastle Contest at Belmar’s 18th Avenue Beach from 8:00 am – 12:00 pm. The competition is free and open to participants of all ages. This family-favorite event draws all ages of sandcastle sculptors and spectators for a day of digging and designing by the sea.
Belmar, NJ
Ocean County Fair
July 15 – 19
This five-day family event features entertainment, rides, food vendors, 4-H Animals & Displays, and more.
Robert J. Miller Air Park, Pinewald-Keswick Rd/Rt 530 and Mule Rd, Bayville, NJ
Cost: $10. Kids Under 10 Free
Glassboro Summer Fest
July 16, 5 pm – 9 pm
Join the annual Summer Fest, happening every Thursday in June and July from 5:00-9:00pm in the Glassboro Town Square. Enjoy live entertainment with a variety of bands and activities, as well as food trucks and local craft beer and wine!
Glassboro Town Square, Glassboro, NJ
Anglesea Nights
July 16, 5 pm – 10 pm
Anglesea Nights is a dynamic evening festival series transforming the North Wildwood Entertainment District into a vibrant celebration of street food, artistry, and good times on select Thursday nights this summer from 5 pm – 10 pm (July 2, July 16, July 30 & August 13, 2026). The event features a curated selection of the region’s top food trucks and unique merchandise vendors, combined with a rotating roster of roaming street performers, including stilt walkers, puppeteers and jugglers, setting the tone for unforgettable evenings of family fun.
Olde New Jersey Avenue, North Wildwood, NJ
Cost: Free
The Feast of Mt Carmel – Berkeley Heights
July 16, 6 pm – 10 pm
This annual Italian family fest features delicious food, wine and brew, non-stop entertainment, great crowds, amusements, games, and fun for the whole family. For adults, a beer and wine garden will be available. Fireworks will highlight the event on Friday starting at 9:30 PM
Springfield Avenue & 56 River Road, Berkeley Heights, NJ
Cost: Free
Cape May County Fair
July 16 – 18
Hosted by the Cape May County 4-H Youth Development Program, this fair offers an array of family-friendly activities, showcasing the talents and achievements of 4-H members. Attendees can explore animal exhibits, enjoy thrilling rides, and indulge in classic fair food. The fair also features live entertainment, educational displays, and fun contests for all ages.
4-H Fairgrounds, 355 Courthouse South Dennis Rd, Cape May Courthouse, NJ
Cost: Free. $10 for premium parking
Jazz, Health & Food Truck Festival
July 18, 11 am – 10 pm
A free, all‑day outdoor celebration of music, wellness, culture, and community. Experience a powerful mix of jazz styles all day long — swing, soul‑jazz, blues along with New Orleans traditions, and the vibrant sounds of New Jersey’s own artists. Expect nonstop music from powerhouse performers, rising stars, and community favorites lighting up the big outdoor stage.
Monte Irvin Orange Park, Center St and Harrison St, Orange, NJ
Cost: Free
Sparta Food Truck and Music Festival
July 18, 11 am – 7 pm
Food! Beer! Music! Fun! Enjoy a fun-filled family day with 18 gourmet food trucks, live music from three bands, a beer garden, and a variety of kids’ activities. The event features pony rides, a petting zoo, bungee trampoline, bounce house, knockerball, slide, face painting, sand art, vendors, and more. Proceeds benefit the Sparta Benevolent Society.
White Lake Field, 181 White Lake Rd, Lafayette, NJ
Cost: $5, kids under 12 are free
Water Ice Festival
July 18, 2 pm – 5 pm
Inspired by the iconic summer treat made famous in South Philadelphia—and with Philadelphia taking center stage this summer for America’s 250th birthday—Ocean Casino Resort is bringing the flavor to life with the first-ever Water Ice Festival at The Park on Saturday, July 18 from 2PM-5PM. This family-friendly, ticketed event celebrates the very best of water ice (or Italian ice), featuring vendors from across the region for a refreshing, can’t-miss summer experience.
Ocean Casino and Resort, 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ
Cost: Adults: $20, Kids (12 and under): $10
South Jersey Caribbean Festival
July 18, 2 pm – 8 pm
Experience the crafts, sounds & flavors of the region’s Caribbean community. Enjoy a day of steel drum music, jerk chicken, and fun on the Camden Waterfront.
Camden Waterfront Stadium, 401 North Delaware Avenue, Camden, NJ
Cost: Free
FilmOneFest
July 18, 6 pm – 11 pm
FilmOneFest takes place in a beautiful outdoor setting with the majestic Manhattan skyline as the backdrop. FilmOneFest (a production of the Atlantic Highlands Arts Council) is the Jersey Shore’s preeminent showcase for all forms of short films under two minutes in length. FilmOneFest also promotes local and international filmmaking through the use of new media and technology, educational activities and screenings, and supports its local food bank. The Atlantic Highlands Arts Council is comprised of a team of dedicated volunteers who include professional artists, educators, business leaders and community organizers. There will be Artist Vendors, Food Trucks, Live Music, 50/50 Raffle, and more.
SeaStreak Parking Lot, Atlantic Highlands, NJ
Cost: Free
Knee High Knuckle Buster Micro Wrestling
July 18, 6 pm – 10:30 pm
Knee High Knuckle Buster: The Biggest Little Event in Atlantic City history will take place under the Atlantic City sky! This epic battle of pint-sized proportions will feature four bouts followed by a no holds barred, all in a royal rumble. Take advantage of photo ops with the wrestlers, mingle with special guests, and participate in a variety of activities. This is a staple in the summer calendar and is not to be missed. *Event is Rain or Shine*
2400 Atlantic Ave, Atlantic City, NJ
Cost: $30+
Tropicana’s Free Fireworks Series
July 18, 10 pm
These breathtaking shows are visible from the beach and the iconic Atlantic City boardwalk in front of Tropicana Atlantic City, offering a spectacular view for visitors and locals alike. Whether you’re enjoying the beach or strolling along the boardwalk, this dazzling display is the perfect way to cap off your evening.
Tropicana Casino & Resort, 2831 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ
Cost: Free Event
Cold Spring Yesteryears Carnival
July 18 & 19, 11 am – 4 pm
Step back in time and enjoy a weekend of fun, laughter, and memories for the whole family at our 1800s carnival! This all-ages event offers something for everyone, featuring spectacular live music, a captivating magician, a balloon artist, and colorful face painting. Attendees can play classic games, explore unique store displays, browse a variety of local vendors, and discover beautiful handmade crafts. In addition to historic demonstrations that bring the past to life, there will be plenty of delicious food and treats to enjoy—plus so much more!
735 Seashore Road, Cape May, NJ
Cost: $12 – $16
Garden State Cat Expo + Show
July 18 & 19
Calling all cat lovers! Attendees can meet various cat breeds and learn about their unique characteristics, visit adoptable rescue cats and kittens, and enjoy great shopping for unique gifts such as cat furniture, toys, candles, jewelry, and more. This event promises fun for the whole family!
125 Raritan Center Pkwy, Edison, NJ
Cost: $10 – $50
Terhune Orchard’s Flower Festival
July 18 & 19, 10 am – 5 pm
Celebrate the beauty of summer in full bloom at the first-ever Flower Festival at Terhune Orchards. This vibrant new festival invites guests of all ages to experience the farm bursting with color, fresh air, and family-friendly fun. Visitors can enjoy a full day of activities across the farm, from pony rides and barnyard tractors to interactive play areas like the Little Tikes Farm Store and Junior Mechanics Shop. Kids will love the rubber duck races, scavenger hunt, and hands-on games designed to keep everyone exploring and engaged. Live music sets the tone for a relaxing summer day, with local bands performing from 12–4 pm. Entertainment includes the ever-popular NJ Bubble Parties, featuring two daily shows filled with giant bubbles, bubble foam, and more. In the big barn, Dennis the Magician brings the “Magical Bug Show” to life, adding wonder and excitement for young audiences. A special ladybug release celebrates pollinators and their essential role in helping flowers bloom, along with themed craft activities. Guests can enjoy seasonal favorites at Pam Mount’s food tent, including barbecue, fresh salads, gazpacho, and apple cider donuts. The Barn Door Café will serve peach ice cream, while the winery offers tastings, flights, and refreshing peach wine slushies.
330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton, NJ
Cost: $16.50-$41.50, Admission is required, with discounted tickets available online.
Puerto Rican Parade and Festival
July 18 & 19, 2 pm – 9 pm
Mark your calendars for an unforgettable weekend of Puerto Rican pride and celebration. TheAnnual Puerto Rican Parade & Two-Day Festival includes local organizations, floats, marching bands, horses, educators, honorees, marshals, dignitaries, and dance groups. In addition to the parade, there will be a free of charge festival with live music featuring well known Latino Headliners, local cover bands, rides, games, food trucks and youth activities attracting 10,000 plus attendees.
Veteran’s Memorial Waterfront Park, Front St & Elizabeth Ave, Elizabeth, NJ
Cost: Free
Luau Festival at Laurita Winery
July 18 & 19
Escape to the islands for an unforgettable weekend at Laurita Winery filled with tropical vibes, amazing wine, live entertainment, food trucks, vendors, and family fun. Enjoy vineyard wagon tours, delicious island-inspired eats, refreshing Laurita wines, and an incredible marketplace of unique vendors while surrounded by the beauty of the winery. PLUS — don’t miss an exciting live performance by the South Pacific Island Dancers featuring authentic Hawaiian dancers and thrilling Samoan Fire Knife Dancers in a show you won’t want to miss!
Laurita Winery, New Egypt, NJ
Cost: $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Everyone 20 and under gets in FREE!
Harvey Cedars Arts Festival
July 19, 10 am – 4 pm
The Harvey Cedars Annual Arts Festival is a celebrated event showcasing the talents of artists and crafters from the region. Held in the picturesque town of Harvey Cedars, this festival offers a wide array of art, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and handmade crafts. Attendees can enjoy live music, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere while exploring unique and beautiful works of art.
Sunset Park, 3 W. Salem Ave, Harvey Cedars, NJ
Cost: Free
Hackettstown Street Fair
July 19, 11 am – 6 pm
There will be Artisans and Crafters, Vendors, LIVE entertainment, food, and more! This event is a family-friendly event right on Main St. Visitors are invited to experience the vendors, live performances throughout the day, a kids’ area, as well as local shopping.
Main St, Hackettstown, NJ
Cost: Free
