Summer at the Shore isn’t just about boardwalk fries and beach umbrellas. It’s a season packed with unforgettable experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re lacing up your sneakers for a scenic run, catching a movie under the stars, or enjoying live music by the bay, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the best events and activities to add to your 2025 shore bucket list.
Wildwood Crest Sand Sculpting Festival (July 11th)
East Heather Road, Wildwood Crest, NJ 08260
(Photo credit: Wildwood Crest)
Get ready to trade your beach towel for a bucket and see the sand like never before! The 13th annual Wildwood Crest Sand Sculpting Festival returns on July 11, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., showcasing incredible creations by talented sand artists from around the world. Guests of all ages can admire competition masterpieces, join hands-on workshops, craft their own sandy works of art, enjoy live music, and take part in family-friendly activities along the shoreline.
*Sandy Sprint Sea Isle City (July 19th)
Excursion Park – JFK Blvd & Pleasure Ave 2 41st St, Sea Isle City, NJ 08243
(Photo credit: KD Photography)
Lace up your sneakers and be part of the teal wave at the 9th Annual Sandy Sprint Sea Isle City 5K Walk/Run, hosted by the Sandy Rollman Ovarian Cancer Foundation. This inspiring one-day event takes place at Excursion Park along JFK Boulevard and the Promenade. The day kicks off with registration at 7:15 a.m., followed by the race starting at 8:30 a.m., and concludes with awards and refreshments at 9:30 a.m. The Sandy Sprint is not just about crossing the finish line; it’s about standing with those affected by ovarian cancer and fueling the fight for better research, awareness, and hope. Plus, be sure to stick around for the post-race celebration at the Oar House at 10 a.m.! It is the perfect way to unwind, connect with others, and keep the energy going!
Free Summer Concert Series at Garden’s Basin (July 21st and July 26th)
Historic Gardner’s Basin 800 N. New Hampshire Ave., Atlantic City, NJ 08401
(Photo credit: Great Day Atlantic City)
Music lovers can soak up the sounds of summer at the free Summer Concert Series at Gardner’s Basin. Kicking off June 21 and returning July 26, 2025, this two-part event showcases an impressive lineup of R&B and soul artists, including Joe Bataan, Meli’Sa Morgan, Full Force, The System, and more. Concerts run from 1 to 7:30 p.m. and feature local performers, food vendors, and a laid-back bayside atmosphere perfect for families and friends. Bring a lawn chair, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy the rhythm of the Jersey Shore—all for free.
Night in Venice (July 26th)
Longport Bridge to East Atlantic Blvd. 210 Gardens Parkway, Ocean City, NJ 08226
(Photo credit: Ocean City Vacation)
Ocean City, New Jersey, is set to host one of the largest boat parades in the world with its 70th annual Night in Venice celebration. This year’s theme, “70 Years of Champions,” honors the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles and other standout teams and individuals from the past seven decades. The parade begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Longport Bridge and travels to Tennessee Avenue along the bay, followed by a dazzling fireworks display. From creatively decorated boats to festive bayfront homes, it’s one of the most anticipated summer events at the Jersey Shore.
Downtown Wildwood Farmer’s Market
Byre Plaza 3400 to 3501 Pacific Ave, Wildwood, NJ 08260
(Photo credit: Wildwoods New Jersey)
For those looking to do more than stroll the boardwalk or lounge on the beach, Downtown Wildwood’s Farmers Market is a must-visit. Held every Saturday morning from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., the market features a wide variety of local vendors offering everything from freshly made boardwalk donuts to homemade soaps. Even pets are welcome, with several booths offering homemade treats and unique accessories for furry friends.
Thrilling Thursdays at Margate
Margate City Public Library 8100 Atlantic Ave, Margate City, NJ 08402
(Photo credit: Margate Business Association)
What better way to end a beach day than with a moonlit movie by the ocean? Every Thursday in July and August, families can enjoy a free movie night on the beach in Margate, and no beach tags are required. Pre-movie activities begin at 8 p.m., with the film starting at 8:30 p.m. on the beach between Granville and Huntington Avenue, behind the Margate Library. It’s the perfect way to unwind under the stars after a day of sun and sand.
From sunrise races to moonlit movies and everything in between, this summer is full of reasons to get out and explore the shore. Mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and make the most of these can’t-miss events. However you choose to spend your days seaside, there’s no better time to create lasting memories down the shore.
