When summer arrives in the Garden State, New Jersey comes alive with vibrant festivals that celebrate the season’s warmth and spirit. From lively music performances to delectable food, and cultural showcases to thrilling activities, NJ summer festivals satisfy every taste and interest for kids, teens, and adults.
In this guide, we’ll introduce you to some of the most exciting summer festivals in New Jersey, so get ready to embrace the sunshine and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere!
About our guide to NJ Summer Festivals
How we organized our guide to summer festivals in New Jersey
When you’re talking about organizing all the NJ summer festivals into one guide it can be quite the task. So I’ve tried to organize this in a manner that would be the most helpful to our readers.
By type of festival
First, this guide to New Jersey summer festivals is organized by the type of festivals. This time of year we have fireworks festivals, music festivals, food truck festivals, blueberry festivals, unique celebrations, and more. To help our readers, who might be looking for a certain type of summer festival in New Jersey I started by picking the best festivals and then breaking the rest of the NJ summer festivals into the types of festivals as just mentioned. There’s a catch all heading for all the other festivals that are happening this summer.
By region
Within each of those festival categories, if there are a lot of events to list, I’ve separated those NJ summer festivals by their region: North Jersey, Central Jersey, and South Jersey.
Why not by date or month
Some festivals always happen on the same weekend from year to year. Some New Jersey summer festivals change it up by moving to a different weekend or even month. We’ve chosen to invest our time in making sure that we find as many free and cheap family-friendly New Jersey summer festivals as we can to share with you rather than putting the list in order by exact date.
For the purpose of this guide to NJ summer festivals we’re focusing on the months and time of year we generally consider to be summer in New Jersey, even if the calendar doesn’t say it’s summer yet. The festivals and fairs listed below all happen between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
At any time you can visit our calendar of events to see these NJ festivals listed by date. This is our overall calendar. Other non-festival events will also be visible.
- Calendar list view
- Calendar day view – Select the drop down arrow next to today’s date. Then, select the date you are interested in.
- Calendar week view – This is not my favorite view because when there are multiple events over the same time period it can be difficult to see each one.
- Calendar monthly views
Quick note about beer and wine festivals
Since the focus on Jersey Family Fun is families this guide to NJ festivals focuses on family friendly festivals. While some may have beer gardens or serve alcohol that is not the main focus of the festival. This guide will not feature festivals that are themed around alcohol.
Quick note about admission fees
Additionally, the majority of these events are free or less than $5 a person to attend. When possible we will list the admission price to the festival, but sometimes changes occur after we publicize an event. If pricing is an issue, please verify the pricing has not changed before heading to an event. You can do that by contacting the event organizer listed in each of our event listings.
How do I get my NJ summer festival listed with Jersey Family Fun?
Summer fairs and festivals that are family-friendly are usually eligible for a listing on our calendar of events and in this guide. Depending on the admission price there may be a small fee to be listed. Please visit our Event Submission Form for more details.
NJ Summer Festivals the Whole Family Will Love
Now let’s get on to telling you about summer festival fun in New Jersey. Let’s start with the best, the most iconic NJ summer festivals.
The 12 Best Summer Festivals in New Jersey
The NJ State Fair in East Rutherford at MetLife Stadium
Located in Bergen County
Typically occurs from mid-late June to mid-July 9.
The New Jersey State Fair is a quintessential summer festival that attracts visitors from all over the state. Held in Sussex County, this fair is a celebration of agriculture, entertainment, and family fun. With live music, thrilling rides, agricultural exhibits, and mouthwatering food, the fair offers an immersive experience for all ages. From indulging in fried treats to cheering on talented performers, the New Jersey State Fair is an event you won’t want to miss.
Admission starts at $38.99. Learn more in our The NJ State Fair in East Rutherford at MetLife Stadium event listing.
Warren County Hot Air Balloons, Arts and Crafts Festival in Washington Township
Located in Warren County
Occurs in early June
Prepare to be awestruck as the skies above Warren County Community College fill with colorful hot air balloons at the Warren County Hot Air Balloons, Arts and Crafts Festival. Witness the breathtaking scenery of mass balloon ascensions, take tethered balloon rides, and enjoy live concerts by renowned artists.
The 2023 event included children’s activities and games, a ninja course, free karate lessons, Plinko prizes, a mascot photo op and more. With a carnival atmosphere, food vendors, and family activities, this festival creates a magical and memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for youth ages 4-12 and parking is $5. Learn more in our Warren County Hot Air Balloon Festival in Washington Township event listing.
Red, White and Blueberry Festival in Hammonton
Located in Atlantic County
Occurs in late June
One of the best Southern NJ festivals near me and you is the Red, White and Blueberry Festival in Hammonton, a true delight for blueberry lovers and fans of classic cars. This annual extravaganza celebrates the coming of blueberry season. With blueberry-themed activities, live music performances kiddie rides, a classics car show, and more this festival offers a ‘berry’ good experience for all.
Admission is free. Learn more in our Red, White and Blueberry Festival in Hammonton event listing.
Cape May Music Festival
Located in Cape May County
Occurs throughout June
If you’re a music enthusiast, the Cape May Music Festival is a must-visit event. Held in the beautiful coastal town of Cape May, this festival showcases a diverse range of musical performances, from classical and jazz to folk and world music.
Take in the enchanting melodies against the backdrop of stunning beaches and historic architecture. With performances by renowned artists and a lineup that caters to various musical tastes, the Cape May Music Festival is a harmonious celebration of summer and the arts.
Admission fees vary by the concert. Learn more at the Cape May MAC website.
The Jersey City Street Fair and Fireworks Festival
Located in Hudson County
Occurs in early July, typically July 4th.
As Independence Day approaches, the Jersey City Street Fair and Fireworks Festival takes center stage, offering a dazzling celebration of patriotism and community. With live music, food trucks, family-friendly activities, and a stunning fireworks display, this festival captures the spirit of American pride and brings people together for an unforgettable Fourth of July experience.
Jersey City’s Independence Day celebration has become a premier daylong event, attracting A list talent since Mayor Fulop resurrected the event and grew it into one of the largest July 4th festivals in the region, drawing crowds of 150,000 people from all over the tristate area.
Admission is free. Learn more in our Jersey City July 4th Celebration and Fireworks event listing.
Freedom Festival at Wiggins Waterfront Park
Located in Camden County
Typically occurs July 4th
Celebrate Independence Day at the Freedom Festival on the Camden Waterfront. This festival brings thousands of people together to enjoy a series of artists, great food, and a spectacular firework show from Serpico Pyrotechnics.
For 2023 the concert kicks off at 5 pm with a performance by the Tri-County Symphonic Band. At 6 pm, Tara Hendricks hits the stage to be followed up with music from UB 40 at 8 pm.
The Fireworks Spectacular over the Delaware River will begin at 9:30 pm.
Admission is free. Learn more in our Freedom Festival at Wiggins Waterfront Park event listing.
North Brunswick Youth Sports Festival
Located in Middlesex County
Typically occurs from mid-June to July 4th
One of the largest NJ summer festivals, the Annual North Brunswick Youth Sports Festival is a community and county-wide, family-friendly event supporting North Brunswick Youth Sports.
The North Brunswick Youth Sports Festival has the following kid-friendly activities.
- Carnival rides
- Games
- Live music
- Petting zoo
- High Flying Pages Thrill Show
- Gossamer Magic Show
- Racing Pigs
- Kiddie Land
- Vendors
- Food
On select nights there is even a fireworks show.
Admission starts at $8. Learn more in our North Brunswick Youth Sports Festival event listing.
Sand Sculpting Festival in Wildwood Crest
Located in Cape May County
Typically occurs in early July
Grab your buckets and shovels and head to the beach at Heather Road and get ready to create works of art in the sand! This amateur and semi-pro sand sculpting contest is hosted by professional world-renowned sand sculptor Matt Long, a former cast member of the Travel Channel’s SandMasters, and “Can You Dig It!” Sand Tools. 2023 marks the 11th year of this fun festival.
Admission is free. Learn more in our Sand Sculpting Festival in Wildwood Crest event listing.
International Kite Festival in Wildwood
Located in Cape May County
Typically occurs in late May
“A full-blown kite festival on steroids” adequately describes the annual Wildwoods International Kite Festival! Come and join this four-day experience beginning with the official Unlocking of the Beach ceremony all the way through Memorial Day Monday with the World Indoor Kite Competition and Performance. Young or old, single or family, girl or boy, everyone will find something that amazes them at this all-inclusive Kite Festival!
Admission is free. Learn more in our International Kite Festival in Wildwood event listing.
North to Shore Festival
Located in Atlantic, Monmouth, and Essex County
This was the first year for the festival that is occuring throughout June
Celebrate talent, diversity and creativity at North to Shore, New Jersey’s first-ever statewide arts extravaganza of music, comedy, poetry, theater, film and technology. This epic, multi-faceted event showcases some of the world’s most spectacular performers in Atlantic City, Asbury Park and Newark over the course of three consecutive (and extremely entertaining!) weeks in June.
- Atlantic City June 4 – 11
- Asbury Park June 14 – 18
- Newark June 21 – 25
There are kid-friendly and teen-friendly activities including classes. Admission varies with the activity, but there are plenty of free activities. Learn more at our North to Shore Festival Calendar of Events. Our calendar is not inclusive of ALL the events, but it does feature events most appropriate for families with kids or teens and events that are free or less than $5 per person to attend.
Borough of Glass Festival and Night Market in Glassboro
Happens in Gloucester County
Typically occurs in Mid-July.
This inspiring Borough of Glass Festival will include dozens of local and area glassblowers, sculptors, painters, metalsmiths, and wood-workers, plus a multitude of other hand-crafters that will offer their items for sale and be demonstrating their skills and craftsmanship right before your eyes!
The night market offers visitors the chance to browse a variety of goods while basking in a festival atmosphere full of food and other alfresco fun on Rowan Boulevard and the Town Square.
Families are invited to interact with artists, create, and see demonstrations that emphasize the way art keeps everyone connected to the past and improves the present, and why preserving art is important for the future.
Admission is free. Learn more at our Borough of Glass Festival and Night Market in Glassboro event listing.
Skimmer Festival in Sea Isle City
Located in Cape May County
Typically occurs mid-June
Skimmer Festival is Sea Isle’s largest summer festival, featuring family-friendly activities and entertainment. There’s balloon art, sand art, and face painting. BUT there’s also a food court, live entertainment and FREE rides in Excursion Park.
Admission is free. Learn more in our Skimmer Festival in Sea Isle City event listing.
More Fruity NJ Summer Festivals
We shared details about Hammonton’s Red, White and Blueberry Festival, but there are more blueberry festivals across New Jersey. We’re also home to some yummy strawberry festivals too.
More Blueberry Festivals in New Jersey
Blueberry Summer Fest at Whitesbog Preservation Trust
Located in Burlington County
Occurs from late June to late July
Blueberry Summer Fest celebrates all things blueberry in the birthplace of blueberries! Tour the historic home where blueberries were first cultivated, enjoy live music, handmade vendors, blueberry picking, pies, ice cream, jams, games, and new themes each week!
Kids attending Blueberry Summer Fest have a ton of activity options: pick blueberries, ride on a wagon, field games, bubbles, listen to music, dance, run around, walk on a trail, get their picture taken in a blueberry, look at tractors, make a craft, eat ice cream, look for turtles, or just play.
Admission is free. Learn more in our Blueberry Summer Fest at Whitesbog Preservation Trust event listing.
Read our Ultimate Guide to Blueberry Picking Season in NJ! Best Pick Your Own Blueberry Farms in New Jersey for more blueberry fun in New Jersey.
Strawberry Festivals in New Jersey
Strawberry Festival in Bridgeton at Shoppes at Dragon Village
Located in Cumberland County
Occurs Mid-June
2023 was the 2nd annual Strawberry Festival in Bridgeton! Guests can browse strawberry treats while shopping the craftsmen and artisans. Kids can enjoy free train and trolley rides, a petting zoo and pony rides, hair braiding, face painting, and a 4-H hosted Scavenger Hunt. There’s also musical entertainment available on some days of the Strawberry Festival.
Admission is $2. Learn more in our Strawberry Festival in Bridgeton at Shoppes at Dragon Village event listing.
Strawberry Festival in Long Valley at Ort Farms
Located in Morris County
Occurs in early June
Come enjoy pick your own strawberries, an antique and collectible car show on the farm, plus food trucks, carriage rides, and more!
Admission is $5. Learn more in our Strawberry Festival in Long Valley at Ort Farms event listing.
Strawberry Festival in West Cape May
Located in Cape May County
Occurs in early June
This annual NJ strawberry festival has been going on for 24 years! This much anticipated event celebrates everyone’s favorite berry as an early sign of summertime fun and yum! There are crafters, artists, strawberry foods, live music, and more.
Admission is free. Learn more in our Strawberry Festival in West Cape May event listing.
Strawberry Festival in Stone Harbor at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church
Located in Cape May County
Occurs in late May
The Strawberry Festival in Stone Harbor will have strawberry desserts, raffles and ice cream.
Admission is free. Learn more in our Strawberry Festival in Stone Harbor at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church event listing.
Read our Ultimate Guide to Strawberry Picking Season in NJ! Best Pick Your Own Strawberry Farms in New Jersey for more strawberry fun in New Jersey.
More NJ July 4th Festivals this Summer
We told you about two spectacular NJ Fourth of July Festivals above, but those aren’t the only ones across New Jersey. Here are a few more organized by region. One quick thing to note, while all of these summer festivals are themed around independence and the Fourth of July not all happen on July 4th. Check with the event listings for exact times and dates.
North Jersey Fourth of July Festivals
South Jersey Fourth of July Festivals
Find more Fourth of July events in our guide to New Jersey July 4th Events, Fireworks, Parades, AND More 2023.
NJ Festival of Lights this Summer
Festival of Lights and Food Truck Festival in Stone Harbor
Happens in Cape May County
Typically occurs in mid-July.
Head to the Municipal Marina Lot and watch the Yacht Club of Stone Harbor’s annual Festival of Lights Boat Parade. As you partake in the Festival of Lights viewing party feasts on a variety of foods available from the Food Truck Festival that will also be underway.
Admission is free. Learn more at our Festival of Lights and Food Truck Festival in Stone Harbor event listing.
Dragon Boat Festival in Mays Landing at Lake Lenape Park
Happens in Atlantic County
Typically occurs in early July.
Not only can you witness dragon boat racing at this Dragon Boat Festival, you can participate in it.
Dragon Boating is easy to learn, extremely safe, and an activity where men and women compete side-by-side towards the same goal. Regardless of how young, old, big, or little: once a paddler is in stroke, they are contributing to their team! Add the outdoors, the water, the visual spectacle of dragon boating and you get a perfect activity for friends and family, corporate team building, or a school outing!
Absolutely no experience is necessary to participate and they provide the boats, paddles, life jackets, and race course!
For those who would rather watch than participate, there will be a flower ceremony, live entertainment, and food vendors.
While admission is free, there appears to be a fee to participate in the races. Learn more at our Dragon Boat Festival in Mays Landing at Lake Lenape Park event listing.
Unique NJ Summer Festivals
These New Jersey summer festivals are fun, unique, and don’t happen too often across New Jersey. We wanted to make sure you didn’t miss out on these opportunities for family fun.
Butterfly Festival in National Park at Red Bank Battlefield
Happens in Gloucester County
Typically occurs in mid-July.
Enjoy a day of family fun while learning about the importance of pollinators. Join tours of a butterfly house, play games and crafts, listen to live music, watch bug shows and end the day with the butterfly and bug parade.
Admission is free. Learn more at our Butterfly Festival in National Park at Red Bank Battlefield event listing.
Fairy and Pirate Festival in Mount Olive
Happens in Morris County
Typically occurs in early June.
Wee fae folk and swashbuckling buccaneers are invited annually to overtake Turkey Brook Park, turning it into a magical wonderland.
Attendees are encouraged to come in costume! There are inflatables, face painting, crafts, games, performances, and more.
Admission is free. Learn more at our Fairy and Pirate Festival in Mount Olive event listing.
Women’s Equality Day Festival in Mount Laurel
Happens in Burlington County
Typically occurs in late August.
Alice Paul Institute will open to the public for its Women’s Equality Day Summer Festival and Beer Garden. This will be a family-friendly festival that will be fun for the whole family! Activities include a petting zoo, music, lawn games, face painting, and more.
Admission is free. Learn more at our Women’s Equality Day Festival in Mount Laurel event listing.
Burlington County Book Festival
Happens in Burlington County
Typically occurs in early June.
Meet renowned authors, mingle with fellow book lovers and spend the day exploring the world of literature at the first Burlington County Book Festival!
During the festival, dozens of notable authors will be ready to discuss, autograph and sell their work. Books for adults, young adults and children will be featured, and a wide variety of genres will be showcased, including mystery, fantasy, romance, historical fiction, nonfiction and more. Visitors will be invited to browse and purchase book-related merchandise created by local authors, artists and vendors.
Admission is free. Learn more at our Burlington County Book Festival event listing.
Gloucester County Water Festival in Clayton
Happens in Gloucester County
Typically occurs in early June.
The Annual Water Fest is the County’s largest environmental fair. It’s been going on for nearly 30 years. The festival features live animal shows, exhibits, crafts, food, canoeing, and kayaking. Guests can visit the Nature Center and participate in a Lake Study in addition to all the activities.
Admission is free. Learn more at our Gloucester County Water Festival in Clayton event listing.
Sara the Turtle Festival in Sea Isle City
Happens in Cape May County
Typically occurs in late June
Families are invited to the Sara the Turtle Festival! The Sara the Turtle Festival will feature a hands-on Wildlife Display (with live animals), as well as Environmental Exhibits by the Wetlands Institutes, the Marine Mammal Stranding Cerner, Sea Isle City’s Environmental Commission, the Beachcomber Guides, and Sea Isle Terrapin Rescue.
There is a “Diaper Derby” Baby Crawling Contest, face painters, a Bounce House and strolling entertainers. The event concludes with “The Turtlesingers” who will delight children with an entertaining and educational musical presentation that will include live turtles.
Admission is free. Learn more at our Sara the Turtle Festival event listing.
Newark Dances: A Choreographic Dance Festival
Happens in Essex County
Typically occurs in late June.
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty and power of dance at Newark Dances – a thrilling choreography festival spotlighting local dance artists and choreographers.
The event shines a light on the art of movement as some of the area’s most talented choreographers and dancers bring an exciting array of dance styles to the stage, from tap and contemporary to hip hop and more.
Admission is free. Learn more at our Newark Dances: A Choreographic Dance Festival event listing.
Asbury Park Dance Festival Presents: Dance Is Life
Happens in Monmouth County
Typically occurs in mid-June.
Asbury Park Dance Festival presents Dance is Life, a free outdoor celebration that honors the power of dance to move and inspire a community.
Dance is Life brings the art of dance (specifically Hustle) directly to the public, connecting them with their community by offering a mixture of instruction, demonstration and social interaction that engages our community physically. Their goal is to create an inclusive, interactive and educational event that empowers participants to come together and express themselves through dance.
The event is sponsored by the Asbury Park Dance Festival (APDF), an organization that brings world-renowned dancers and dance companies to the Jersey Shore in support of Arts Ed NJ and the arts education advocacy.
Admission is free. Learn more at our Asbury Park Dance Festival Presents: Dance Is Life event listing.
NJ Cultural Festivals this Summer
Celebrate your culture or learn about a new one at these cultural festivals happening across New Jersey this summer.
Mercer County Cultural Festival and Food Truck Rally in West Windsor
Happens in Mercer County
Typically occurs in mid-June.
The Mercer County Cultural Festival offers traditional dance and musical performances, heritage artisans, art demonstrations, international food trucks, a Biergarten, children’s activities, and more!
Admission is free. Learn more at our Mercer County Cultural Festival and Food Truck Rally in West Windsor event listing.
Juneteenth Festival in Union
Happens in Union County
Typically occurs in mid-June.
As Union celebrates Juneteenth there will be live music, food, art, vendors and guest speakers.
Admission is free. Learn more at our Juneteenth Festival in Union event listing.
Irish Festival in Spring Lake
Happens in Monmouth County
Typically occurs in mid-June.
Spring Lake’s Irish Festival offers guests live music, dancing, food, and kids’ activities.
Admission is free. Learn more at our Irish Festival in Spring Lake event listing.
South Jersey Caribbean Festival in Camden
Happens in Camden County
Typically occurs in early July.
Special guests, local and regional talent all come together to help South Jersey celebrate all things Caribbean.
Admission is free. Learn more at our South Jersey Caribbean Festival in Camden event listing.
Hungarian Festival in New Brunswick
Happens in Middlesex County
Typically occurs in early June.
Enjoy fine Hungarian cuisine, listen to Hungarian folk songs, and watch and learn Hungarian folk dances!
With activities for children, performances throughout the day, and plenty of vendors, the Annual Hungarian Festival is an event you won’t want to miss! The festival is approaching it’s 50th year of celebrating the Hungarian culture.
Admission is free. Learn more at our Hungarian Festival in New Brunswick event listing.
Taste of Spain Festival in Woodbridge Township at Parker Press Park
Happens in Middlesex County
Typically occurs in late June.
Alborada Spanish Dance Theatre presents “Feria de Sevilla” in a Taste of Spain. The Fería de Sevilla takes place in Parker Press Park in Woodbridge
Admission is free. Learn more at our Taste of Spain Festival in Woodbridge Township at Parker Press Park event listing.
NJ Music Festivals this Summer
North Jersey
- Garwood Rocks Festival in Garwood
- Rhythm and Blues Festival in Plainfield
- Jazz Festival in Jersey City
- Food Truck and Music Festival in Teaneck
- Food Truck and Music Festival in Bloomfield
- Food Truck and Music Festival in Randolph at County College of Morris
- Sloan Park Festival in Bloomingdale
- Sustainably Green Music and Arts Festival in Washington Borough
- Music Festival in South Orange
- Afro House Music Dance Festival
NJ Food Truck Festivals this Summer
North Jersey
- Food Truck Festival and Pet Palooza in Morristown
- Food Truck Festival in Hackettstown at Donaldson Farm
- Food Festival in Clifton at Weasel Brook Park
- Food Truck and Music Festival in Teaneck
- Food Truck Festival in Hopatcong
- Food Truck and Music Festival in Bloomfield
- Food Truck and Music Festival in Randolph at County College of Morris
- Sloan Park Festival in Bloomingdale
Central Jersey
South Jersey
- Food Truck Festival in Cherry Hill at Cherry Hill Mall
- Food Truck Festival in Lavallette
- Swedesboro Concerts and Food Truck Festivals in Auction Park
- Food Truck Festival in Millville at New Jersey Motorsports Park
- Food Truck Festival in Sewell
- Food Truck Festivals in Medford on Main Street
- Food Truck Festival in Sea Isle City
NJ Art Festivals this Summer
North Jersey
- Sustainably Green Music and Arts Festival in Washington Borough
- More coming soon.
Central Jersey
- Summer Art and Music Festival in Perth Amboy
- More coming soon.
More Summer Festivals in New Jersey
Here are a few more summer festivals that have made our NJ Calendar of Events.
New Jersey’s summer festivals offer a diverse range of experiences, from cultural showcases to unique festivals, from berry fairs and music celebrations to food truck extravaganzas and artistic street galleries. Whether you’re indulging in delicious treats, immersing yourself in the vibrant music scene, or exploring local arts and crafts, these NJ summer festivals capture the essence of summer in the Garden State.
So mark your calendars, gather your kids, friends and family, and prepare to celebrate the sunshine and warmer months at these exciting summer festivals.
For more NJ summer activities read The MOST Fun Summer Activities for Kids & Teens in New Jersey.