The Top Must-Visit Irish Festivals in New Jersey:
2025 Edition
New Jersey Irish Festivals:
Discover the vibrant Irish culture through these 2025 festive events.
Ever wanted to experience the rich culture of Ireland without leaving the state?
New Jersey boasts a thriving Irish American population and hosts a number of lively Irish festivals.
Given this substantial community, it's not surprising that these events have become popular traditions here.
These festivals offer a vibrant display of cultural pride, with opportunities to enjoy lively bands, feast on mouthwatering food, explore unique Celtic crafts, and sip on refreshing Irish beers. More than just a party, they're also an excellent way to learn and experience the rich traditions of Ireland.
Irish festivals go beyond just celebration; they foster community pride, introduce and teach Irish Americans and others about all things Irish, and help strengthen relationships within the community.
So, why not join the fun? Come and add to the merriment at one of New Jersey's many vibrant Irish festivals!
Stay tuned --- we will be updating this list as the event sponsors confirm this year's events.
2025 Irish Festivals and Themed Events
Ocean County Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh Irish Festival
Saturday, September 6, 2025; @11am -7pm
Manahawkin Lake Park
86 N Main St
Manahawkin, NJ
This family event features a Beer Garden including wine/hard seltzer/ciders Extensive Food Vendors including Corned Beef Sandwiches. Entertainment will feature Live Irish Pipes & Drum Bands and Irish Step Dancers. Family & Pet Friendly Craft Vendors Pot O' Gold Playland for Children activities, games, ice-cream, face painting and a host of other goodies for the kids.
Annual Feis
Sunday, September 7th, 2025; 8:45 A.M. TO 6:00 P.M.
Sussex County Fairgrounds
Plains Road
Augusta, NJ
This event features a step dancing competition, music, art, Irish language, massed bands, food, Irish vendors, and a beer garden.
Irish Fall Festival
September 19, 20, 21, 2025
Olde New Jersey Avenue
North Wildwood, NJ
One of the largest Irish festivals in the country is held at the Jersey shore -- every September. This festival features a celebration of Irish heritage with dancing, music, food and craft vendors. Other festivities include a golf tournament, Irish dance lessons, 5K run and 1 mile walk, pipe exhibition, food court, and Catholic Mass. The events conclude with a parade on Sunday down Surf Avenue from 20th to Spruce and Olde New Jersey Avenues.
Bayonne Irish Festival
Saturday, September 27th, 2025
Thomas Di Domenico Park
16th Street & Avenue A
Bayonne, NJ
This event features live Irish music with food and drink available for purchase.
Shamrocks By The Sea, Celtic Festival
Saturday,September 27th, 2025; 10am to 6pm (rain or shine)
Seaside Park Marina Green
101 J St
Seaside Park, NJ
This family event features a celebration of Irish culture with traditional Irish food and Irish entertainment provided by The Shantys, Bally Haunis, The Shamrock and Thistle Pipe Band, and Devrin School of Irish Danch.
Hamilton Irish Fest
Friday, Saturday, October 3rd, 4th, 2025 (raindate Sunday, October 5th)
2419 Kuser Road
Hamilton Square, NJ
This two day celebration beginning on Friday evening @ 6pm features live Irish music, Kids activities, vendors, food, and beverages (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) will be available for purchase throughout the duration of the Festival.
Guests are invited to bring lawn chairs and blankets to sit back and enjoy a day of Irish fun and entertainment.
Smithville Irish Festival
Saturday & Sunday, October 11, 12, 2025
Historic Smithville
1 North New York Rd
Smithville, NJ
This annual family event features live Irish entertainment, Irish crafters, Irish food vendors, and a kiddie area with face painting, sand art, pony rides and more. Bring a chair, sit and joy the music and great food.
The South Jersey Celtic Festival
October 11, 12, 2025
Burlington County Fairgrounds
1990 Jacksonville Jobstown Rd
Columbus, NJ
Cost: $10pp
This family & dog friendly event features Highland Games, Live Irish and Celtic Music, Pipers and Dancers, Craft Beer, Mead, Wine, & Whiskey Tastings, Food Trucks, Merchants, Games & Fun. The Whiskey Tastings at 2 pm @ $40 per person, is an enjoyable activity where attendees can learn the fine art of whiskey tasting and the differences between types of whiskeys.
New Jersey Irish Festivals and Events
Frequently Asked Questions
Question
What are some popular Irish festivals held annually in New Jersey?
Question
What are some popular Irish festivals held annually in New Jersey?
Answer
Some of the most celebrated Irish festivals in New Jersey include:
The Annual Feis in Augusta
The Annual Irish Festival at the Monmouth Racetrack in Oceanport
The Ocean County Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh Irish Festival in Manahawkin
The North Wildwood Irish Fall Festival, known as the largest Irish festival on the East Coast.
Question
When are these Irish festivals typically held?
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When are these Irish festivals typically held?
Answer
- Spring/Summer/Fall: Events usually begin in June with the Annual Irish Festival at the Monmouth Ractrack in Oceanport in June and culminate with the North Wildwood Irish Fall Festival in September.
- March: St. Patrick's Day celebrations and parades dominate in March.
Question
What activities can I expect at Irish festivals?
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What activities can I expect at Irish festivals?
Answer
Visitors enjoy traditional Irish music, step dancing, food vendors offering Irish fare, beer gardens, crafts, cultural exhibits, and family-friendly activities.
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Are these events family-friendly?
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Are these events family-friendly?
Answer
Yes, most New Jersey Irish festivals include activities for all ages, such as face painting, storytelling, and kids’ zones, alongside adult-oriented events like beer tastings.
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Do I need tickets for these festivals?
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Do I need tickets for these festivals?
Answer
It varies by event. Many festivals are free to attend, while others may charge for specific activities or admission. Check the event’s website for details.
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Can I participate as a vendor or performer?
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Can I participate as a vendor or performer?
Answer
Yes, many festivals welcome vendors and performers. Contact the festival organizers directly through their official websites for applications and guidelines.
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Are pets allowed at Irish festivals?
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Are pets allowed at Irish festivals?
Answer
Policies differ by event and location. Check the specific festival’s rules regarding pets.
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What should I wear to an Irish festival?
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What should I wear to an Irish festival?
Answer
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and don’t forget to show your Irish spirit with green attire or Celtic-inspired designs!
