NJIB’s Guide to 75+ New Jersey May Festivals and Events
May in New Jersey heralds the arrival of spring in full bloom, bringing with it a vibrant tapestry of events and festivals that celebrate the state’s rich culture, diverse heritage, and natural beauty. From lively music festivals and colorful cultural celebrations to mouthwatering food events and thrilling outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a local looking for weekend fun or a traveler seeking an unforgettable experience, New Jersey’s May events promise excitement, entertainment, and a warm welcome to all.
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.
Featured!
Area 57 – Flying Objects & Other Fun
May 3, 9:30 am – 5 pm
Area 57 will feature Warren Community College’s nationally highly rated Uncrewed Systems Program consisting of piloting, design and development, and the maintenance and repair of drones, in addition AI and Robotics. The event will also hot air balloons, combat and FRC robots.
Warren Community College, 475 Route 57, Washington, NJ
Cost: Free for Students/Veterans, $4
White Hill Mansion’s Paranormal Expo
May 3, 10 am – 5 pm
The 2025 Paranormal Expo promises an immersive and interactive experience for attendees of all ages. In addition to celebrity meet-and-greets, the event will include a dedicated kids’ table, educational workshops focusing on ghost hunting equipment and investigative techniques, and the rare opportunity to participate in mini-paranormal investigations of the historic White Hill Mansion itself. Guests can also look forward to exploring the expansive vendor market, featuring handcrafted items, metaphysical tools, and local artisan wares.
White Hill Mansion, 217 E Burlington St, Fieldsboro, NJ
Cost: $10
Bayonne Food Truck Fest
May 3, 12 pm – 7 pm
A fun-filled day of drinks, bands, and 30+ food trucks. This is a family friendly event with kids rids, face painting, and more. Live Bands include The Nerds, The Suyat Band, and more. Furry friends are welcome.
19th-22nd St Ave E, Bayonne, NJ
Cost: Free
Garden State Wine Growers Mother’s Day Weekend Wine Trail
May 9 – 11
Celebrate with Mom while discovering all that Garden State wine country has to offer. A journey on the Mother’s Day Wine Trail promises to honor the extraordinary ladies in your life. What to expect on the Garden State Wine Growers Association Mother’s Day Wine Trail:
– Gorgeous vineyards with outdoor seating and live entertainment
– Special Mother’s Day drinks and tastings with commentary by expert sommeliers
– Food trucks, fire pits, market umbrellas, flowers, and Mother’s Day wine glasses
– Candle making and succulent planting
– Brunch, lunch, specialty desserts and wine flights
Participating Wineries in NJ
Cost: Varies per event
New Jersey May Festivals and Events:
The Week of May 1 – 5:
NJ Wine & Food Festival
May 2 – 4
Crystal Springs Resort is proud to host New Jersey Food & Wine Fest — the king of all New Jersey wine events. The festival’s events are designed to allow food and wine connoisseurs to meet and mingle with the world’s finest chefs and winemakers and sample the best food and wine around.
Crystal Springs Resort, Hamburg, NJ
Kites at the Pier Festival
May 3, 9 am – 4 pm
A day of great family fun featuring kite flyers from all areas of the eastern seaboard flying their most incredible creations! Every kind of kite imaginable will be at the annual Kites at the Pier Festival. Kites of all shapes and sizes – from inflatable flying creatures to traditional kites – will be flying high over the beach between Avenue and McLoone’s Pier House in Long Branch. A dazzling display of giant kites will be visible for miles and miles.
Pier Village, Ocean Ave and Centennial Dr, Long Branch, NJ
Cost: Free
Ocean City Spring Block Party
May 3, 9 am – 5 pm
Ocean City’s annual street fair features over 350 crafters, food vendors, music, and more.
From 5th Street to 14th Street on Asbury Ave., Ocean City, NJ
Cost: Free
Made in Monmouth
May 3, 10 am – 4 pm
Made In Monmouth is a program for both vendors to create useful new products that the public will want to buy and for visitors to find the best Monmouth made products to enrich their lives! Shop local by supporting local goods like kid friendly items, baked goods, art work, jewelry, pet items and more!
Brookdale Community College, in the Collins Arena & Recreation Events Center, Lincroft, NJ
Cost: Free
Spring Blossom Festival at Riamede Farm
May 3, 10 am – 4 pm
Join Riamede Farm for their annual celebration of spring and their beautiful apple blossoms at the Spring Blossom Festival! Fun for the whole family, this year’s festival is bigger and better – they can’t wait to welcome everyone back to the farm! Activities include hayrides through the blooming orchard, beekeeper demonstrations and an observation hive, farm-grown vegetable and flower starts for your garden, hot air balloon rides (weather permitting), live music, 4H animals, a backyard chicken display, a beer garden, food trucks, ice cream, and local artisan vendors. Advance admission ($5) includes a hayride and access to all picking and shopping areas. Gate admission ($5) does not include the hayride, which will be separately ticketed. No pets, please.
122 Oakdale Road, Chester, NJ
Cost: $5
Union County Celtic Festival
May 3, 10 am – 8 pm
The festival includes entertainment, a children’s area, cultural activities, piping and drumming contests, craft vendors, dancing, food vendors, and a beer garden.
787 Featherbed Ln, Clark, NJ
Cost: $5-$20
ECO Fair
May 3, 10 am – 4 pm
ECO Fair is a free Family Day event inspired by natural and artful living, featuring local gardening clubs, including Rutgers Master Gardeners with various native and wildlife-friendly plants, locally grown herbs and vegetables for sale, handmade works of New Jersey artists, environmental organizations, Nature Trail tours, eco-friendly activities for families, live music, and more. Enjoy a beautiful spring day by walking around the WheatonArts campus. Admission to all WheatonArts exhibits and Artist Studio demonstrations are free and open to the public for the day, part of WheatonArts’ Family Days, presented by PNC Arts Alive! Supply your zip code at the gate and receive a FREE Eco-shopping bag, courtesy of the Cumberland County Improvement Authority! One per adult, while supplies last. Children have an opportunity to design their own at the Authority booth while supplies last.
1000 Village Drive, Millville, NJ
Cost: Free
Elmwood Park’s Spring Festival
May 3, 11 am – 5 pm
This event is hosted by the Elmwood Park Recreation Department and will be held on Market Street and the Recreation Field from 11 am-5 pm, rain or shine. The street will be closed to vehicle traffic during the event and will be transformed into a giant block party. If you like shopping outdoors then this is the place to be. We have quality exhibitors selling a selection of assorted items, a special arts & crafts section, live entertainment, kiddie rides & games, great festival foods & food trucks, and so much more. Local organizations are welcome to join this community event. As you stroll along stop to have a bite to eat and sit at tables in our live music area. See the show we have planned with live music, dancing, karate demonstrations, and more. So come hungry and enjoy eating carnival food favorites like a sausage & pepper sandwich, cheese steaks, kettle corn, chicken fingers, ice cream, zeppole, shish kabobs, gyros, fresh cut fries, fresh squeezed lemonade, Italian ice, and the many great gourmet foods from the food trucks.
300 Market St Elmwood Park, NJ
Cost: Free Admission
Jersey Devil Fable Festival
May 3, 12 pm – 6 pm
Bring on the folklore and fables. From the Pine Barrens of New Jersey to the Black Forest of Germany, we have all been raised on the tales of the dark dark forest. Join the Asbury Park Paranormal Museum as they explore those tales, the myth and reality in a good old fashioned festival. Come dressed in you spooky and creepy Brothers Grimm best to ward of the last of the ghouls and goblins of the year.
Mattison Ave in Asbury Park, NJ
Cost: Free
Skylands Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival
May 3, 12 pm – 7 pm (Rain or shine)
This event has entertainment for all ages. Spend a special day enjoying the outdoors, with delicious options including 20+ food truck vendors, desserts, specialty drinks & more. 100+ craft beers, live music, and games.
Skylands Stadium, 94 Championship Place, Augusta, NJ
Cost: $5, Children 38 Tall and Shorter are Free
4th Annual Highlands Fiesta de Mayo
May 3, 12 pm – 5 pm
The Annual Highlands Fiesta de Mayo Cantina Crawl takes place Saturday, May 3rd, from 12 p.m. to 5 pm. Tickets are $40 and include a Margarita Contest where local restaurants will be competing for the Best Margarita in Highlands! Participants will sample delicious 6oz. Margaritas and vote for their favorite! The fee includes free samplings and discounted food and drink specials at local eateries and pubs, as well as specials at many retail establishments. Live Mariachi music will be playing at the participating restaurants to add an authentic Mexican flair to the event! Check-in is at Huddy Park, , you may purchase tickets in the park the day of the event, 11 am – 12:30 pm. This is a rain-or-shine event.
Huddy Park (check-in) 329 Bay Ave. Highlands, NJ
Cost: $40
AAPI Food & Music Festival
May 3, 1 pm – 5 pm
Union Twp will host its 1st Annual Asian American and Pacific Islander Food & Music Festival to celebrate their local AAPI community on Saturday, May 6th from 12pm to 4pm on Stuyvesant Avenue.
Stuyvesant Avenue, Union Twp, NJ
Cost: Free
Down & Derby Wine Festival
May 3, 2 pm – 7 pm
Join the fun on Veterans Island at Cooper River Park to sample delicious wines from South Jersey’s leading wine producers while immersing yourself in Derby themed fashion and festivities at The Annual Down & Derby Wine Festival presented By Visit South Jersey And Camden County.
Veterans Island, Cooper River Park, 5300 North Park Dr, Pennsauken, NJ
Cost: $15 – $95
Boujee Foodie Con
May 3 & 4
Attendees can enjoy live music, trendy treats, and gourmet goodies from some of New Jersey’s hottest food purveyors. Sample unique dishes, craft cocktails, and the latest culinary trends from 55 vendors. Enjoy free giveaways, car displays, carnival games, and face painting.
1000 Sanger Avenue, Oceanport, NJ
Cost: $15, $20 at the door
A Day of Wine, Romance, and More!
May 3 & 4, 12 pm – 4 pm
The largest book signing event of its kind in New Jersey! Over 45 local authors representing a wide range of genres will be on hand for this unique event. Grab a glass of Brook Hollow’s excellent wine and take a stroll. Meet the actual authors and peruse their books. Whether you’re looking for your next book boyfriend, a heart-racing thriller, or something for your child or grandchild, you’ll find it here! Bring a picnic lunch and spend the day with the authors.
Wine tastings are optional.
Brook Hollow Winery, 594 Highway 94, Columbia, NJ
Cost: Free admission
Cinco de Mayo Food Truck Festival
May 4 & 5, Saturday from 11 am – 9 pm and Sunday from 11 am – 7 pm
This family event features a pair of wines with the many food offerings available from onsite food trucks! Wine and dine while listening to top live musical artists all weekend. There will be live bands, face painting, vineyard wagon tours, and fireworks at dusk.
Laurita Winery, 85 Archertown Road, New Egypt, NJ
Tickets: $13 in advance and $15 at the door
AWA Paws & Feet 5K and Doggie Fun Day
May 4, 9 am – 2 pm
Animal Welfare Association’s signature event, the Paws & Feet 5k Run/Walk and Doggie Fun Day is an annual fundraising event celebrating the unbreakable bond between humans and their pets It’s a day full of fun activities for the whole family, including your furry best friends! We’ll have live entertainment, local small business vendors, children’s activities, food and drink from local favorites, and more. Proceeds from the event go directly to funding AWA’s lifesaving programs, which touch tens of thousands in our community each year.
Cooper River Park, Cherry Hill, NJ
Cost: Free; Registration fee for 5K & Rescue Ramble only
Handmade Hopewell: A Makers Street Fair
May 4, 10 am – 4 pm
A small, but mighty unique and highly curated makers street fair. Upwards of 60 makers, artisans, and craftspeople fill Seminary Avenue of Hopewell Borough offering a wide variety of goods including textiles, home goods, paintings, ceramics and much more! Rain or Shine.
Seminary Avenue, Hopewell Borough, NJ
Cost: Free
Westfield Spring Fling Street Fair
May 4, 10 am – 5 pm
Spring Fling Street Fair in Westfield promises to deliver an array of exciting new attractions and all the favorites from years past such as a kid’s zone, including carnival rides, face painting, henna art, and boardwalk-style games. It will feature realistic dinosaur attractions, utilizing animatronics and puppetry to interacting with attendees, adding an extra layer of excitement for families.Attendees can expect an expanded lineup of live music all day. The fair will offer a range of food vendors along with a designated seating area and high-top tables in the beer garden for a more enjoyable dining experience.
Downtown Westfield, NJ
Cost: Free
Springfest Craft Show & Antique Corner
May 4, 10 am – 5 pm
A Don’t Miss Exciting Shopping Event held in picturesque Veterans Park. One hundred & twenty exhibitors will be set up on the grass along the paths with an array of hand crafted items, art & gifts. The Antique & Collectible corner is where you will find treasures from the past. Festival foods will be available as well as home made pretzels, pickles, kettle korn, sweets, & Italian ice. Free Admission and is held rain or shine. Sponsored by Westwood Recreation and organized by P.J.’s Promotions. use 318 3rd Ave for your GPS
Veterans Park , Park Ave, Westwood, NJ
Cost: Free
Walnut Street Fair
May 4, 11 am – 4 pm
Spread throughout the heart of Walnut Street in beautiful Montclair, NJ, the Walnut Street Fair features 200+ vendors and displays, live music, food trucks, a beer garden, a family fun zone with Touch-A-Truck and much more! This event is family/dog friendly. The Walnut Street Fair stretches from Forest Street all the way to Grove Street. Erie Park (next to the baseball field) will feature a huge family-fun zone with tons of kid-friendly activities and entertainment.
Walnut Street, Montclair, NJ
Cost: Free
Highland Park Street Fair
May 4, 11:30 – 4:30 pm
Come on down to Highland Park for the Annual Highland Park Street Fair & Craft Show and enjoy a day of family fun with original and interesting arts & crafts, artists, crafters, vendors, food, rides, live music, DJ, performances and more
Downtown Highland Park, Highland Park, NJ
Cost: Free
BBQ, Beer & Boots Jamfest
May 4, 12 pm – 4pm
This spring, Point Pleasant Beach is bringing the country to the coast! BBQ, Beer & Boots kicks off the Summer season — a backyard-style BBQ and beer festival with a country twist, right in the heart of downtown. Live country music, incredible food, cold beer, and good vibes for the whole family.
Downtown Point Pleasant Beach, 710 Arnold Ave, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ
Cost: $10 in advance, $12 at the door
VetFest Music and Food Truck Festival
May 4, 12 pm – 7 pm
The festival will feature New Jersey’s top bands and over a dozen local food trucks, all in support of Community Hope. There will also be Two Bounce houses for the kids (free with entry) and a Beer Garden. Proceeds from this event will benefit Community Hope’s Veterans Programs to end veteran homelessness.
Dave Waks Memorial Park, 39 Barbour Pond Rd, Wayne, NJ
Cost: $5+
High Bridge Paint Out
May 4, 1:30pm to 5pm
The 2025 High Bridge Paint Out is a one-day celebration of local art, bringing together artists and art enthusiasts of all ages. On Sunday, May 4th, artists ages 5 to 99 will showcase original artwork inspired by the Borough of High Bridge in a live auction and juried show. The event begins at 1:30 PM with the Junior Division auction at Scout’s Coffee Shop, where visitors can enjoy coffee and snacks while browsing student artwork. From there, make your way up Main Street to Circa Restaurant, where the Traditional Adult Painting Division auction begins at 2:00 PM, accompanied by live music and great atmosphere. At the same time, the Beyond Canvas Division opens at Old Borough Hall Pottery, featuring mixed-media art, sculpture, and more—with the added bonus of shopping in their on-site pottery store. The day concludes back at Circa with the Adult Division awards ceremony at 4:30 PM, where guests can enjoy food, cocktails, and celebrate the winning artists.
37 Main Street, High Bridge, NJ
Cost: Free
The Weekend of May 5 – 11:
Merchantville Art Walk
May 9, 6 pm – 9 pm
Tour the town and take in an incredible collection of works from local artists. Local businesses teamed up with artists to show their work for one night. Live Music will take place at several places, and you can freely walk around and enjoy all the beautiful spaces in Merchantville.
East Maple Ave Merchantville, NJ
Creative Arts & Music Festival
May 10, 10 am – 4 pm
The annual Creative Arts & Music Festival features a variety of fine artists and artisans with offerings such as mixed media, painting, photography, jewelry, pottery, and more. Plus, enjoy live music by some of the best local musicians. Food vendors, artist demonstrations, and free activities will be happening throughout the day.
Thompson Park, 805 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, NJ
Cost: Free
Annual Azalea Festival
May 10, 10 am – 4 pm
Held only on Mother’s Day weekend each year. This event takes place in the historic Hamilton Square, Sayen House and Gardens, a sanctuary for nature lovers, garden enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Enjoy seeing over 250,000 flowering bulbs, dogwoods, azaleas and rhododendron, In addition to touring the grounds’ collection of beautifully landscaped walking paths, fountains, bridges, lakes, gazebos, and breathtaking scenery, attendees can enjoy crafters, food, music, entertainment, and more
Sayen Park Botanical Garden, 155 Hughes Drive, Hamilton Township, NJ
Cost: Free
Creative Arts & Music Festival
May 10, 10 am – 4 pm
The annual Creative Arts & Music Festival features a variety of fine artists and artisans with offerings such as mixed media, painting, photography, jewelry, pottery, and more. Plus, enjoy live music by some of the best local musicians. Food vendors, artist demonstrations, and free activities will be happening throughout the day.
Thompson Park, 805 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, NJ
Cost: Free
Hot Rods & Harleys
May 10, 11 am – 7 pm
The annual Hot Rods & Harleys event is revving up for another spectacular day of family fun! Join for a celebration of classic cars, motorcycles, live music, and local food vendors.
Downtown Rahway, NJ
Cost: Free
Maywood’s Chow Down Food Truck Fest & Vendor Pop-Up
May 10, 12 pm – 7 pm
Maywood’s Food Truck Festival takes place on Saturday, May 10, from 12-7 PM in the Myron Parking Lot, featuring top NJ food trucks, a vendor pop-up, live music, a kids zone, and a beer garden. Enjoy gourmet, international, and boardwalk-style eats with outdoor seating available. Admission is free—bring a chair and stay for the fun.
205 Maywood Ave, Maywood, NJ
Cost: Free Admission
Hackettstown International Day and Maifest
May 10, 12 pm – 5 pm
Come support your local artists, crafters, shops, eateries & beer brewers during the Hackettstown Maifest & International Day celebration! This is a family-friendly event with live entertainment, activities, business specials, and vendors by the Marketspace. Join this festive celebration highlighting Hackettstown’s diverse culture with an assortment of cuisine and craft beers. Enjoy browsing an array of local artists work. The festival will take place on Valentine and Grand Avenues. Free to enter.
200 4th Ave, Hackettstown, NJ
Cost: Free
BBQ and Soul Food Festival
May 10, 12 pm – 7 pm
The event, proudly supporting the Rotary Club of New Brunswick, celebrates the best in American cuisine, featuring smoky BBQ and Southern soul food. The event will offer an array of BBQ dishes like ribs, brisket, fried chicken, mac ‘n’ cheese, collard greens, and more. Attendees can also enjoy live music, with details to be announced soon. The family-friendly day includes a Kids Zone with bounce houses, a bungee trampoline, a rock wall, a kids’ driving course, face painters, and more
Middlesex County Fairgrounds, East Brunswick, NJ
Cost: $7, kids 10 and under are free
Jersey City Tequila & Mezcal Festival
May 10, 6 pm – 9:30 pm
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo all month long with Jersey City Tequila Fest. Featuring over 100 styles of tequila, mezcal and more.
Harborside Atrium, 210 Hudson St Jersey City, NJ
Cost: $15 – $70
Spring Bazaar
May 10 & 11, 12 pm – 5 pm
Celebrate Mother’s Day weekend at the Spring Bazaar in Asbury Park. The weekend will feature shopping, arts & crafts, and music experience in two beautiful locations by the beach: Whitechapel Projects in Long Branch and Grand Arcade at Asbury Park Convention Hall. Enjoy a weekend adventure at the Jersey Shore! The Mother’s Day Weekend Spring Bazaar will feature shopping from local makers, artists, designers, crafters, and collectors; fresh flower bouquets, Mother’s day photos and photo stations; music & entertainment; craft workshops; kids workshops & face painting; brunch; and delicious food & libations.
Grand Arcade of Asbury Park Convention Hall and The Asbury Hotel, Asbury Park, NJ
Cost: Free
The Week of May 12 – 18:
Wildwoods Restaurant Showcase
May 14, 5 pm – 8 pm
Enjoy a taste of mouth-watering food samplings and decadent dessert bites from dozens of the Wildwoods’ finest restaurants and specialty shops. All proceeds benefit the Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce Foundation and scholarships for area high school students. An auction of fantastic prizes will be held.
3320 Atlantic Avenue, Wildwood, NJ
Cost: $40
The Spring NJ Gem Show
May 14 – 18
The Spring NJ Gem Show Returns May 14-18 at the New Jersey Convention & Expo Center. One of America’s leading gem show promoters is bringing a spectacular showcase of rare gemstones, precious minerals, prehistoric fossils, crystals, meteorites, and more. The event will also feature a host of family-friendly interactive elements like a dino dig pit, metal detecting, geode cracking, gemstone sluicing, and panning for gemstones, as well as a rubber ducky hunt throughout the event grounds, which can be exchanged for special prizes.
New Jersey Convention & Expo Center, Edison, NJ
Cost: $15+
Annual Greek Festival
May 15 – 18
World-famous cuisine, culture, music, and hospitality. There will be fun for the entire family including carnival games, cooked and grilled food, desserts and pastries, ouzo, beer, and live Greek music and dancing.
St. Athanasios Greek Orthodox Church, 51 Paramus Rd. Paramus, NJ
Cost: Free
New Jersey Audubon’s Cape May Spring Festival
May 15 – 18
Why Cape May, New Jersey? National Geographic listed Cape May, NJ as one of ten World’s Best Destinations for Bird Watching. The unique combination of diverse habitats within a condensed area attracts an amazing variety of songbirds and shorebirds to the area every spring and fall. Witnessing Spring Migration in Cape May is something every birder should experience. Included with Registration: Thursday Evening Kick-Off Party, Consonance Collective’s Bird Inspired Musical Keynote Performance, Many Expert Guided Birding Walks and Field Trips to choose from, Informative Indoor Programs, and Viewing Stations with Naturalists on site.
Nature Center of Cape May, 1600 Delaware Ave, Cape May, NJ
Cost: $60+. Kids 10 and under are free
New Jersey Seafood Festival
May 16 – 18
This popular family-friendly event offers an ultimate feast of crowd-pleasing fare — from gumbo, lobster rolls, and jambalaya, to coconut shrimp, crab legs, conch fritters, and more. In addition to some great seafood, live music is also a big part of the Belmar Seafood Festival. The lineup of bands includes popular area musicians performing live during all three days of the festival.
Pyanoe Plaza and Pyanoe Plaza Parking lot, Belmar, NJ
Cost: Free
Steel Mill Street Fair
May 17, 10 am – 4 pm
Formally known as the Bordentown Street Fair, this event will feature over 250 Booths filled with crafters, vendors, artisan specialty foods, local community organizations/non-profits, food trucks, and local musicians/entertainers performing all day. Plenty of free parking; the event is next to the NJ Transit River Line Roebling Train Station. Rain Date: May 18
Roebling Museum, 100 2nd Avenue In Roebling, Florence Twp, NJ
Cost: Free
Lake Hopatcong Block Party
May 17, 10 am – 4 pm
The Lake Hopatcong Block Party offers a unique Main Street-style experience in a beautiful lakeside setting. Hosted by the Lake Hopatcong Foundation, this event brings visitors together with businesses, non-profit organizations, community groups, crafters, and food vendors for a community day like no other featuring activities, entertainment, raffles, a children’s scavenger hunt, and more.
Hopatcong State Park, 260 Lakeside Blvd, Landing, NJ
Cost: Free; donations welcome
Woodbridge Street Fair
May 17, 11 am – 5 pm
Come on down to Woodbridge for the Annual Woodbridge Street Fair & Craft Show and enjoy a day of family fun with original arts & crafts, artists, crafters, vendors, food, rides, live music, DJ performances and more. Admission is free!
Main Street, Woodbridge, NJ
Cost: Free
Keansburg Food Truck Festival
May 17, 2 pm – 7 pm
Join the fun for 4th Annual Food Truck Festival. 2pm-5pm DJ’ing will be No limit Entertainment. 5pm-7pm will be live music from Aftermath. Beer Garden provided by Grin brewing. FREE face painting, balloon artist, bounce house and more.
1 Beachway Ave, Keansburg, NJ
Cost: Free
Rhythm & Brews
May 17, 3 pm – 9 pm
The Rhythm returns, and the Brews too.. LOCAL Music -LOCAL Artisans -LOCAL Food and -LOCAL Brews. This kick-ass Music Festival takes place on Station Ave. in super HIP, historic downtown Haddon Heights! The 500 and 600 block of Station Ave. will be open to “FOOT TRAFFIC ONLY” for this event! A stage will be set for Music and additional music will be added in random places on the ave. The avenue will be lined with libations-Food Trucks- Live performances-and festival lovers. Cups/tickets can be purchased at the door day of. One dollar from each cup sold will go to Pediatric Cancer awareness.
Station Ave, Haddon Twp, NJ
Cost: Free
Ocean Fun Days
May 17 & 18, 11 am – 3 pm
This free family friendly event features eco tours, children’s activities, games and more. In addition, there will be interactive workshops with marine scientists and researchers to learn about our amazing coastline and ways you can help protect the environment.
Island Beach State Park, Seaside Heights, NJ & NJ Sea Grant Consortium, Sandy Hook, NJ
Cost: Free
Rose Squared Art Show Verona Park
May 17 & 18; 10 am – 5 pm
Rose Squared Art Shows presents more than 90 artisans at Verona Park May 18-19, 2024. This event showcases both fine art and fine craft with works in apothecary, artisanal foods, ceramics, jewelry, wood, digital art, decorative and wearable fiber, furniture, glass, painting, 2D/3D mixed media and photography. The event is rain or shine.
475 Bloomfield Ave, Verona, NJ
Cost: Free
MayFest
May 17 & 18, 10 am – 5 pm
Historic Smithville host’s over 100 juried crafters, an international food court, music, kids’ activities, non-profit organizations and much more! All of this is in addition to their 50 Shoppes, carousel ride, train ride, paddle boats, 7 eateries, and antique arcades that are located at the Village year-round!
Time 10 -5
Smithville Village, 615 E Moss Mill Rd, Smithville, NJ
Cost: Free
The New Jersey Renaissance Faire
May 17 –June 8 (Sat & Sun), 10 am – 6 pm.
This magical family-friendly renaissance festival features a jousting contest, human chess match, sword fighting, fire breathing, aerialists, comedy, artisans, live music and a full day of interactive entertainment.
Burlington County Fairgrounds, 1990 Jacksonville Jobstown Rdm Columbus, NJ
Cost: $10-$30
Asbury Park Vegan Food Festival
May 17 & 18, 11 am – 7 pm
The Asbury Park Vegan Food Festival is a two-day celebration that features yummy vegan and plant-based meals from local chefs, as well as vegan products, plant-based fashion, live music and good times
Bradley Park, 101-199 5th Ave Asbury Park, NJ
Cost: $15 – $25
World Food Extravaganza
May 17 & 18, 11 am – 7 pm
A two-day celebration of global flavors, music, and entertainment! The event features over 20 food vendors offering authentic dishes from around the world, bringing an EPCOT-style experience to New Jersey. On Saturday, May 17, attendees can enjoy country music from the Brian Dean Moore Band and more, while Sunday, May 18, will feature an exciting lineup, including the Super Stars of UWA Elite Pro Wrestling. A selection of international beer, wine, and hard seltzers will be available. Tickets are $10 online or $20 for a two-day pass, with door prices at $15 per day or $25 for the weekend. Children under 10 enter for free, and parking is also free. Proudly sponsored by New Jersey 101.5 and 94.5 WPST, this event promises a weekend of great food, music, and fun for the whole family.
Mercer County Park, West Windsor, NJ
Cost: $15 per person per day $25 for a 2-day pass All children under 12 are free
Highlands Roar on the River
May 17 & 18, 12 pm – 6pm
The Highlands Business Partnership, OPA – Offshore Powerboat Association, and Jersey Shore Boat Racing Present Roar on the River, on the Highlands Waterfront, May 17th & 18th. The festivities kick off in Veterans Park with JSBR skiff racing and Roar on the River Fest, where you will find food vendors, specialty vendors, live entertainment, and a wine and beer garden. The OPA Race Series will take place on Sunday, May 18th. It can be viewed from Highlands waterfront establishments, which will offer race day specials and VIP Packages. These packages allow attendees to get an up-close view of this action-packed event. Race fans can visit the “Pit” at the Seastreak Overflow Lot, 348 Shore Drive (formerly Doris & Ed’s Restaurant). The pit will be open to the public, and fans can get autographs and photos with the drivers and view the boats.
Veterans Park 51 Bay Ave. Highlands, NJ
Cost: Free
The Hermitage Museum Vintage & Antique Fair
May 18, 9 am – 4 pm
The Friends of the Hermitage, Inc. present an outdoor Antique & Vintage Fair on the scenic grounds of the Hermitage Museum. Expect around 60 exhibitors selling antiques, collectibles, vintage items, estate jewelry, coins, stamps, comics, sports memorabilia, furniture, dolls, and more. Enjoy live music, food trucks, and walk-through museum tours. From 11 AM to 3 PM, certified appraiser Jon Feltz will offer on-site appraisals for $10 per item. Parking is available on-site and in nearby lots.
335 North Franklin Turnpike, Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ
Cost: $5
Clark’s “Rock the Block” Street Fair
May 18, 10 am – 5 pm
Clark will be transformed into a marketplace of vendors, crafters and retail establishments. Come enjoy the culinary delights of the local food vendors. The day will be filled with entertainment and a Kids Zone with rides and inflatables.
Downtown Clark, NJ
Cost: Free
Kenilworth Street Fair with Classic Cars Too!
May 18, 10 am – 4 pm
Kenilworth’s annual Boulevard Block Party takes place from 10 AM to 4 PM, closing the streets from 14th to 23rd for a day of shopping, food, and entertainment. Over 100 exhibitors will showcase jewelry, clothing, home decor, and more, alongside a special crafters’ section with unique handmade items. Enjoy live music, dance performances, and martial arts demos, plus a kid’s zone packed with bounce rides, face painting, and games. Savor delicious carnival favorites and gourmet food truck fare. Don’t miss the classic and custom car show in front of Harding School, with registration open until 1 PM.
525 Boulevard, Kenilworth, NJ
Cost: Free Admission
Cranford Spring Street Fest
May 18, 11 am – 5 pm
Step into a world of vibrant crafts, tantalizing tastes, and endless entertainment! Get ready to stroll through a kaleidoscope of crafts, flavors, and rhythms, where every corner holds a new adventure. This is a street-fair style event featuring 100+ artisans and Cranford Businesses along North Union Ave and Alden St. Admission is free, family friendly, and open to the public.Food Trucks and Live Music will be in the Fire Department parking lot next to the gazebo.
308 Union Ave N, Cranford, NJ
Cost: Free
Maplewood “MayFest” Street Fair
May 18, 11 am – 5 pm
Enjoy a fun day in Maplewood at this fair, featuring artists, vendors, kids activities, and live entertainment.
Springfield Ave, Maplewood, NJ
Cost: Free
Freehold Porch Festival
May 18, 12 am – 6 pm
This event features a day of music & fun throughout Freehold Borough. Many of of the poular local entertainers will be participating in the Event!
Downtown Freehold, NJ, Maps of Entertainment Locations and Times will be distributed at the Downtown Freehold Gazebo 10E Main Street.
Cost: Free
The Week of May 18 – 25:
Wildwoods International Kite Festival
May 23 – May 26
On the beach at Rio Grande Avenue, Wildwood and inside the Wildwoods Convention Center. Event begins on Friday at noon with the Unlocking of the Ocean media event outside of the Wildwoods Convention Center. Festivities following the Unlocking of the Ocean include opening of the Kite Sales Tent, Friday Night Social via the local kite club and the 9:00 p.m. Illuminated Night Kite Fly. Saturday includes the Silent and Loud Auctions (open to all); and Saturday and Sunday include the flying of large inflatable kites, team flying, as well as family games from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Monday features the World Indoor Kite Exhibition inside the Wildwoods Convention Center. FREE to spectators! Visit SkyFestivals.com
4501 Boardwalk, Wildwood, NJ
Cost: Free
Collingswood May Fair
May 24, 10 am – 5 pm
What began in 1979 as a small “clothesline art exhibit” now encompasses more than a mile of the business district along Haddon Avenue. Multiple stages of live music will feature blues, rock, folk, and more. A schedule will be posted closer to the actual date of the event. An antique & classic auto show adds to the festival’s appeal. Visitors will also find several Food Courts complimenting the downtown restaurants and cafés. There will be everything from pulled pork to fancy desserts! May Fair also welcomes the return of the renowned Collingswood Farmers Market offering “Jersey Fresh” produce, flowers, and more sold in a delightful open-air atmosphere.
601 Haddon Avenue Collingswood, NJ
Cost: Free
Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival
May 24 – 26
This Memorial Day weekend, Monmouth Park’s biggest event – the Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival – is back on its normal date and back to its normal size. Come enjoy 35 of the Jersey Shore’s most mouth-watering food trucks. Sample everything from lobster rolls to Mac & Cheese to fried oreos. Amazing food, great music, live horse racing, and much more
Monmouth Park Racetrack, Oceanport Avenue, Oceanport NJ
Cost: $6
Bradley Beach Memorial Day Weekend Festival
May 24 – 26
The festival includes crafters, food, live music, and Family Fun, long the promenade with entertanment both Days. Parade on Saturday, at 10am and runs along Ocean Ave.
Bradley Beach Boardwalk, Bradley Beach, NJ
Cost: Free
24th Annual Highlands Seaport Craft Show
May 25, 10 am – 5 pm
The Highlands Business Partnership will host the 24th Annual Seaport Craft Show, Huddy Park, 329 Bay Ave. Highlands, on Sunday, May 25th, from 10 am – 5 pm. Admission is free. Come experience a delightful collection of various handmade crafts from more than 60 crafters and artisans. Live music from 12 PM- 4 PM. There will be a huge variety of unique gifts, art, jewelry, and personal items at this Juried Show.
Huddy Park, 329 Bay Ave. Highlands, NJ
Cost: Free
Long Branch – Art in the Park
May 25, 10 am – 5 pm rain or shine
This annual show features local artists of the local art scene here in Monmouth County, NJ. Participants in this event include: Photography, Jewelry, Paintings, Sculpture, Mixed Media, Ceramic and Paintings.
West End Park (Brighton Avenue), Long Branch, NJ
Cost: Free
New Jersey Jerk Fest
May 25, 1 pm – 7 pm
This event features Caribbean cuisine, live music, and good vibes It’s a celebration of all things “jerk.” from spicy jerk chicken to flavorful jerk pork, Jerk Fish, Jerk Goat, Jerk Oxtail & Jerk Ice Cream there will be something for everyone to enjoy. There will be food trucks, food and beverage vendors, crafts, merchandise for sale, live music, kids’ activities, and more.
Boyd Park, New Brunswick, NJ
Cost: Tickets: $15 – $60
Cape May Music Festival
May 25 – June 28
The Cape May Music Festival, celebrating its 36th year from May 25 to June 28, 2025, offers a diverse lineup of classical, chamber, and jazz performances in Cape May, NJ. Hosted by Cape May MAC, the festival features renowned ensembles like the Atlantic Brass Band, New Jersey Symphony Chamber Players, and New York Chamber Ensemble, along with unique events such as Bach’s Lunches, blending live music with fine dining. With performances held at scenic venues like Rotary Park and the Episcopal Church of the Advent, the festival showcases world-class musicians while enriching Cape May’s cultural scene. More details and tickets are available at capemaymac.org.
Cape May, NJ
Cost: Varies per event
The Week of May 25 – June 1:
Haddon Square Summer Market
May 29, 5 pm – 9 pm
The Summer Maker’s Market is an open-air market featuring a curated selection of local and regional artisans and makers and their handmade creations. The Market will take place at Haddon Square in the heart of Haddon Township’s thriving downtown, where shoppers will find local makers, live music, and samplings. Art, jewelry, accessories, homewares, clothing, beauty products and delicious gourmet treats will be for sale as part of the market.
51 Haddon Ave, Haddon Township, NJ
Cost: Free
Jersey City Jazz Festival
May 30 & 31
The Jersey City Jazz Festival, established in 2013, is an annual celebration of jazz music held in Jersey City, New Jersey. Over the years, it has grown into one of the largest jazz festivals in the New York metropolitan area, featuring performances from over 300 musicians across various venues, including stages, clubs, and parks throughout the city. The festival typically spans multiple days and offers attendees a diverse lineup of jazz styles, food trucks, and other festivities, making it a vibrant cultural event that attracts both local residents and visitors.
Jersey City, NJ
Cost: Free admission
The Arc of Warren County Food Truck and Music Fest
May 31, 12 pm – 7 pm
Supporting the incredible work of The Arc of Warren County, this event at Donaldson Farms in Hackettstown, NJ, on May 31, 2025, promises a day of fantastic food, family fun, and community celebration. Guests can enjoy delicious offerings from 11 food trucks, live music by the Brian Dean Moore Band, and craft beers and czeltzers from Czig Meister Brewery Company. The event features activities for all ages, including games, pony visits, and a free interactive kids’ zone by Mega Bite Events, making it a fun-filled day for the whole family.
Donaldson Farms, Hackettstown, NJ
Cost: $8, 10 and under are free
Undercover Music Fest
May 31, 2 pm – 10 pm
Experience the electrifying vibes of Under Cover Music Fest on Sat, Jun 1st, 2PM-10 PM at the Sloan Street parking lot in South Orange, NJ. Groove to hits from Beyoncé to The Grateful Dead and more, performed by sensational cover bands at this FREE community event. Indulge in delicious bites from local eateries and chilled brews from regional brewers available for purchase. Plus, enjoy a kid zone courtesy of the South Mountain YMCA, games, and much more! Take your experience to the next level by purchasing a VIP tent for you and your group, limited quantities are available for purchase. This event is hosted by South Orange Downtown and South Orange Village with support from sponsors, Mark Murphy’s Music, Pollock Properties Group, PSE&G and Marigold Pediatric Dentistry.
12 Sloan St, South Orange, NJ
Cost: Free
Spring Chester Craft Show
May 31 & June 1, 10 am – 5 pm
Experience one of the top craft shows in the country with over 160 crafters! Discover a wonderful selection of hand made items including traditional craft, fine art, and country crafts. You will find a wonderful selection of antiques, crafts, clothing, jewelry, home furnishings and accessories, gourmet pet products, confections, and wonderful eateries. Find unique gifts for everyone on your shopping list as well as beautiful handcrafted furnishings for your home. While in town, be sure to stroll through Historic Chester and visit over 80 unique shops and eateries which are just steps away from the show. The Chester area is also home to wonderful parks and farms offering fun for the whole family.
Municipal Field, 134 Main Street, Chester, NJ
Cost: $6
Hasbrouck Heights “Spring Fling” Street Fair
June 1, 10 am – 5 pm
The Hasbrouck Heights Regional Chamber of Commerce is the sponsor of the borough’s most popular spring event, held annually along the Boulevard. The Boulevard will be closed to vehicle traffic from Raymond St to Washington Place. The fair features area merchants, and 100+ quality exhibitors, a special crafter’s section, lots of great food trucks and booths, a kids entertainment area, live music.
Held along 216 Boulevard, Hasbrouck Heights, NJ
Cost: Free
Garwood Rocks Street Fair
June 1, 11 am – 5 pm
Center Street will be transformed into a marketplace of vendors, crafters and retail establishments. Come enjoy the culinary delights of our food vendors. The event will include a huge car show which attracts thousands of fair goers. The day will be filled with entertainment and a Kids Zone with rides and inflatables.
Center St, Garwood, NJ
Cost: Free
Spring Shedfest Raritan Headwaters Music Festival
June 1, 2 pm – 7 pm
This family-friendly music festival located on a beautiful wildlife preserve, features live music, kid’s activities, food trucks, and local craft beer & cider. Proceeds from this event benefit Raritan Headwaters, a nonprofit conservation organization protecting land and water.
Fairview Farm Wildlife Preserve, 2121 Larger Cross Rd, Bedminster, NJ
Cost: $30 in advance, $50 at the door. Kids 12 and under are free
