Best New Jersey May 2026 Festivals and Events
New Jersey's greatest month for getting outside
May is the sweet spot. Winter is a memory, summer humidity hasn't arrived yet, and the entire state bursts into motion. Beach towns shake off the off-season and throw open their boardwalks. Farms start their strawberry seasons. State parks fill with hikers and birders. And practically every town in New Jersey throws a festival.
Whether you're hunting for world-class jazz in Jersey City, chasing kites on the Wildwoods beach, sipping wine at a vineyard festival, or letting the kids loose at a Renaissance Faire, May in New Jersey delivers something extraordinary every single weekend.
This guide covers the highlights — the marquee events, the hidden gems, and the regional flavor that makes each corner of the Garden State worth exploring this month.
Updated: April 16, 2026
North Jersey May 2026 Festivals & Themed Events Guide
The New Jersey Wine & Food Fest
Friday, Saturday, & Sunday, May 1, 2, 3, 2026
Crystal Springs Resort,
1 Wild Turkey Way,
Hamburg, NJ
This popular event features both food and wine connoisseurs an opportunity to meet and mingle with the world's finest chefs and winemakers and to sample their creations.
Cost: Range from
$37.32 to $399.84
Chester Food Truck and Music Festival
Saturday, May 2, 2026:11am - 7pm
Muncipal Field,
Chester, NJ
The Food Trucks are rolling into Chester Borough! It's a fun filled family day! 18 Gourmet Food Trucks, Live Music from 3 bands, beer, sangria & margarita garden, kids activities, face painting, inflatables, vendors & more! Bring your friends, family, appetite, lawn chairs, pups and blankets. Event is a Benefit for the Chester First Aid Squad & The Chester/Mendham Food Pantry
Cost: Suggested all attendees to bring a non-perishable canned or boxed item to help support the food pantry.
May 2, 2026:12 pm – 7 pm (Rain or shine)
Skylands Stadium, 94 Championship Place, Augusta, NJ
This event has entertainment for all ages. Enjoy a day of 100+ craft beers, live music, and games delicious food, desserts, drinks, and much more. The festival has activities and entertainment for all ages, so bring the entire family!
Cost: $5, Children 38 Tall and Shorter are Free
The Union County Celtic Festival
Saturday, May 2nd, 2026:10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Deutscher Club of Clark,
787 Featherbed Ln,
Clark, NJ
This vibrant celebration offers exhilarating entertainment, a dedicated children's area, immersive cultural activities, traditional dancing, and a lively beer garden. Enjoy the thrill of piping and drumming competitions, discover Gaelic Football and Hurling exhibitions, and indulge in delicious cuisine from a variety of vendors. The event also showcases electrifying performances and incredible bands guaranteed to keep the energy high!
Cost:
Adults (ages 13+): $15 through May 1 (11:55 PM) Adults (ages 13+): $20 on the day of the event Children (ages 5–12): $5 Children (ages 4 and under): Free
Mother's Day Celebration in Jersey City
Friday,
May 8th, 2026
Hamilton Park,
Jersey City, NJ
A fun event planned to make all the moms feel special on their day! They have organized a ton of activities for moms and their kids. It features a picture corner to capture sweet memories with your children, arts & crafts, music for kids, cookie decorating, food vendors, performances, and more!
Cost: Free
Passaic County Restaurant Week
Monday, May 11 thru Sunday, May 17, 2026
A weeklong celebration of the county's diverse culinary scene, featuring special prix fixe menus and limited time deals at participating restaurants. The event also ties into America's upcoming 250th anniversary, reflected in the themed pricing, and encourages visitors to explore local eateries while checking in and voting for favorites through the Let's Rallie App.
Cost:
$17.76 breakfast/lunch combos. $25+, three course dinner menus
Patterson Restaurant Week
Monday, May 11 thru Sunday, May 17, 2026
Celebrating the city’s rich culinary diversity with special fixed menus that make exploring local restaurants both fun and affordable. inspired by the region’s historical ties and designed to highlight signature dishes while supporting neighborhood businesses. Diners can enjoy a wide range of cuisines throughout the week, making it an inviting opportunity to discover new favorites and revisit beloved spots
Cost: Either $17.76 breakfast or lunch combo, or $25 three-course dinner menu
Country Jamboree Festival
Saturday May 16, 2026:11am-8pm
Firemans Field,
144 Beach Street,
Rockaway, NJ
This fun filled event features a day filled with live music, delicious food, and good ol' country fun. Join in for a family for a day of line dancing, BBQ, and great music from local country bands. Don't forget to wear your best cowboy boots and hats! This is a can't-miss event for all country music lovers. There will be live music by Tennessee Honey.
Cost: $5, children under 5 free.
May 16, 2026:5 pm – 9 pm
The Meadowlands, 1 Racetrack Drive, East Rutherford, NJ
Festival highlights include beers from across the U.S., live music from DJ ALX, live horse racing beginning at 6:20 PM, and a simulcast of The Belmont Stakes. All attendees will have access to tastings, pairings, educational seminars, and additional activities throughout the evening.
Hoboken Arts & Music Festival
Sunday, May 17, 2026:11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Washington St. bet. Observer Highway & 7th St.,
Hoboken, NJ
This family event features
2 stages of live music, displays and sales by artists, crafters, food vendors and local businesses. Activities for children with rides, games, craft activities and more. This year’s festival will feature an exciting lineup of legendary freestyle and dance-pop artists headlining the Observer Highway Stage, including George Lamond, Cynthia, Betty Dee of Sweet Sensation, and The Cover Girls.
Cost: Free
Annual Kenilworth Street Fair & Classic Car Show
Sunday, May 17, 2026:10am-4pm
567 Boulevard, Kenilworth, NJ
This event will feature quality exhibitors, a special crafter's section, lots of great food, kiddie rides, a kids' area, live music and performances, local merchants & civic organizations, and a large classic car show. The car show starts on the west end of the event at 14th Street.
Cost: Free
Annual Jersey City Jazz Festival
Friday, May 29 thru Sunday, May 31, 2026
Exchange Place,
Alliance Plaza,
Jersey City, NJ
This event is a celebration of community featuring live Jazz music, performed by over 200 Jazz muscians with a wide range of musical styles featuring some of the best talent in the NYC-tristate area.
Cost: Free
Central Jersey May 2026 Festivals & Themed Events Guide
Highlands Fiesta de Mayo Cantina Crawl
Saturday, May 2, 2026:12pm - 5pm (rain or shine)
Huddy Park,
301 Shore Dr,
Highlands, NJ
This event features live Mariachi music playing at the participating restaurants with attendees sampling Margaritas and casting their vote for their favorite.
Attendees wiil get to enjoy discounted food and drink specials at local eateries and pubs, specials at many of retail establishments, and surprise samplings!
Cost: $45
Annual Azalea Festival
Saturday, May 9th, 2026:10am-4pm (Rain Date Sunday, May 10th)
Sayen Park Botanical Garden,
155 Hughes Drive,
Hamilton Square,
Hamilton Township, NJ
Held 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 viewing over 250,000 flowering bulbs, dogwoods, azaleas and rhododendron. Visitors will get to enjoy crafters, food, music, entertainment, and more.
Cost: Free
Thompson Park's Annual Creative Arts & Music Festival
Saturday, May 9, 2026:10am - 4pm
Thompson Park,
805 Newman Springs Road,
Lincroft, NJ
This event is a juried art festival, open to artists of all mediums. In addition to the art vendors, the day will be filled with art demonstrations, live music, and food vendors.
Cost: Free
Mother's Day Brunch Cruise
Sunday, May 10, 2026:11:30am - 1:30pm
River Belle Broadway Basin,
47 Broadway,
Pt. Pleasant Beach, NJ
Their 2 hour Mother's Day Buffet Brunch cruise sails the Manasquan River, and conditions permitting, the Pt. Pleasant Canal & Barnegat Bay with time for sightseeing on the return trip. Cash Bar available for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
They also offer a Mother's Day
Dinner Cruise @ 4pm
Cost: Adults Ages 13 and up $49. Children Ages 4-12 $26. Children 3 and under Free.
New Jersey Seafood Festival
May 15, 16, 17, 2026
Silver Lake Park 5th and Ocean Ave,
Belmar, NJ
This popular family-friendly Jersey Shore event features seafood feast with gumbo, lobster rolls, and jambalaya, coconut shrimp, crab legs, conch fritters, and more.
Live music will also entertain the attendees by a lineup of popular area musicians.
Cost: Free
Allaire Spring Craft Show
Saturday, May 16th. 2026:10am - 4pm
The Historic Village at Allaire Allaire State Park
4263 Atlantic Avenue,
Farmingdale, NJ
This event festures 130 crafters, Allaire artisans, crafters, exhibits, historic demonstrations, and more to kick off our Craft Show season in style! Local artists will be demonstrating and selling their works. Paintings, pottery, textiles and more! They will have craft demonstrations at the Carpenter, Blacksmith, and Tinsmith shops! General Store, Allaire Bakery, a Food Truck will be on site.
Cost: $5.94, ten years of age and older
Asbury Park Vegan Food Festival
Saturday, Sunday, May 16, 17, 2026:Noon - 6PM (rain or shine)
Bradley Park,
101-199 5th Ave,
Asbury Park, NJ
This two-day celebration features a two-day celebration bringing together the state's finest vegan and plant-based food from local chefs, restaurants, food trucks, and product developers, as well as vegan lifestyle gear, cruelty-free fashion, live music, and an outdoor bar stocked with vegan cockatils and mocktails! This festival serves up everything from jackfruit tacos to desserts that could convert the most committed cheese-lover.
Cost:
$19+. Kids 13 and under are free.
Ocean Fun Days
May 17, 2026:11am - 3pm
NJ Sea Grant Consortium,
Sandy Hook, NJ
This 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.
Cost: Free
FBAC PorchFest
Sunday, May 17, 2026:12PM - 6PM
Downtown, Freehold, NJ
This event features a fun filled day of music on the porches of downtown Freehold homes.
Attendees wiill get to enjoy, music, performers, artists, & vendors.
Maps will be provided.
Cost: Free
Walnford Day
Sunday, May 17, 2026:11am to 5pm
Historic Walnford, 62
Walnford Road,
Upper Freehold, NJ
This family-friendly event offers visitors the chance to explore this historic site and see its 19th century gristmill in action, tour the elegant Waln family home, and go on a horse-drawn wagon ride. Demonstrations for the day include blacksmithing, loom weaving, basket weaving, 18th century music, and more.
Cost: Free
Bradley Beach Memorial Day Weekend Parade & Festival
Saturday & Sunday, May 23, 24, 2026:9am-7pm
on the Bradley Beach Boardwalk
The festival includes crafters, food, live music,
and Family Fun, with entertanment both Days.
Parade on Saturday, at 10am and runs along Ocean Ave.
Cost: Free
Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival
May 23, 2026:11am to 5pm
Monmouth Park Racetrack,
175 Oceanport Ave.,
Oceanport, NJ
Expecy over 30 mouth-watering food trucks. Sample everything from Lobster Rolls to Mac & Cheese to Fried Oreos. Live music 12-4pm all three days. Saturday music by Ready Cassette Go! Family Fun Day events – including clowns, face painters, pony rides and a bounce house, will take place from 12-4pm in the picnic area on Saturday and Sunday.
Cost: Free Parking, General Admission $6. Children 12 and under are Free.
Annual Seaport Craft Show
Sunday, May 24, 2026:10am - 5pm
Huddy Park,
301 Shore Dr.,
Highlands, NJ
This event features a juries show with more than 60 crafters and artisans displaying their works, along with live entertainment.
Cost: Free
Long Branch Art in the Park
Sunday, May 24, 2026:10am - 5pm
West End Park,
Brighton Ave, Long Branch, NJ
This event features up to 50 Juried Artists! Showcasing works on paper and canvas, mixed media, ceramics, jewelry, photography, and more.
Cost: Free
New Jersey Jerk Fest
Sunday, May 24, 2026:1pm - 8pm
Middlesex County Fairgrounds, 655 Cranbury Rd, East Brunswick, NJ
This event features Caribbean cuisine, live music, food trucks, 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.
Cost:
$24.71-GA, $92.97-Club Member VIP Lounge
New Jersey Horror Con and Film Festival
May 29, 30, 31, 2026
NJ Expo Center,
97 Sunfield Ave.,
Edison, NJ
This fan-favorite convention brings together celebrity guests, filmmakers, vendors, and horror enthusiasts for an immersive experience packed with screenings, Q&A panels, autograph sessions, photo ops, and a massive vendor floor.
Cost:
$35.00-$169.20
BBQ Beer & Boots
Sunday, May 31 2026:12 pm to 4 pm
710 Arnold Ave,
Point Pleasant Beach, NJ
This family friendly outdoor cookout features live Country Music, local BBQ, Cold Brews, cornhole, prizes, and more.
Cost: $10 per person,
Kids under 5 enter free.
South Jersey May 2026 Festivals & Themed Events Guide
Cinco de Mayo Celebration
Saturday, May 2, 2026:12pm-5pm.
Bellview Winery,
150 Atlantic Street,
Landisville, NJ
The music will be playing, the sangria will be chilling and the food truck will have tacos galore!
They will be offering two special sangrias this weekend. These sangrias will be available by the carafe or by the All wines will be available by the bottle or by the glass. Live music will be on the Vineyard Stage with performances by the Chris Farrell Duo
Cost: Free
Ocean City Spring Block Party
Saturday, May 2, 2026:9AM - 5PM
From 5th Street to 14th Street on Asbury Ave.,
Ocean City, NJ
This annual family event event features over 350 crafters, food vendors, music, and more.
Cost: Free
Down & Derby Wine Festival
Saturday, May 2, 2026:2 PM – 7 PM
Veterans Island on Cooper River Park,
579 S Park Dr,
Collingswood, NJ
This event features a sampling of wines from South Jersey's wine producers while immersing yourself in Kentucky Derby themed fashion and festivities. There will be music, food, games, and more. Attendee are encouraged to dress in your best Derby attire.
Cost: $15, $35
17th Annual Atlantic City Mothers Day Music Festival
Saturday, May 9th, 2026:7pm - 10:30pm
Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City, NJ
Atlantic City's historic venue features their annual Mother's Day Music Fest, one of the most popular R & B events of the year. This unforgettable night of R&B features Jodeci headlining the stage, XSCAPE as co-headliners, and special guest Kenny Lattimore. Don't miss one of Atlantic City's most beloved Mother's Day traditions!
Cost: $97.60, $107.85, $121.45, $187.30, $241.15
Mother's Day in the Grove
Saturday, May 9, 2026
Laurita Winery, 85 Archertown Road, Plumsted, NJ
Celebrate Mother's Day outside in The Grove! Treat Mom to a day of wine and relaxation on the beautiful grounds of Laurita Winery with food trucks, live music, strolling magician and vineyard wagon tours!
Cost:
Adults 13+ $16.00, ages 12 and under Free
Wildwoods Restaurant Showcase
Tuesday, May 12, 2026:5 pm – 8 pm
Blue Water Grille at Bolero Resort & Conference Center, 3320 Atlantic Avenue, Wildwood, NJ
This event offers an evening of delicious samplings from many of the area's top restaurants and specialty shops.
Cost: $40 /person. Call 609.729.4000 or at the door.
New Jersey Audubon’s Cape May Spring Festival
May 14th – 17th, 2026
Nature Center of Cape May,
1600 Delaware Ave,
Cape May, NJ
There will be live music, a food truck and beer and wine available for a reasonable donation. Throughout the weekend, there will be birding field trips, boat rides and more, led by their amazing local naturalists, with Saturday Evening Keynote Presentation by Scott Weidensaul
Cost:
3 Day Registration $280, 2 Day Registration $220, 1 Day Registration - $110
| Trip to the Rips Only $60 ($35 if registered for a day) Children 10 & Under - Free
Exit 0 Jazz Festival
May 15, 16, 17, 2026
Convention Hall, bars/restaurants,
Cape May, NJ
International touring artists perform at multiple venues hosting many genres of music during the evening. The joy of the Exit Zero Jazz Festival is in the discovery of incredible music and musicians you may never have known existed.
Cost:
$112.90, General Admission
| $138.65, VIP
Create in the Crest Arts Festival
Saturday, May 16, 2026:10am to 1pm
Crest Arts Pavilion,
6301 Ocean Avenue,
Wildwood Crest, NJ
This event features a diverse array of talented artists, entrepreneurs, musicians, and creators who will be demonstrating their craft, displaying stunning works, and offering unique pieces for sale. Visitors can also take part in interactive sessions to learn artistic techniques firsthand.
Cost: Free
Ocean Fun Days
May 16, 2026: 11am - 3pm
Island Beach State Park, Seaside Park
This 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.
Cost: Free
Riverview Beach Park Wine Festival
May 16, 17, 2026
Riverview Beach Park, Pennsville, NJ
This event features
a relaxed, scenic spring celebration along the Delaware River. It brings together New Jersey wineries, food trucks, artisan vendors, and live music for a two day outdoor tasting experience.
Cost: Ranges from free to $25
Rhythm and Brews
Saturday, May 16th, 2026 3pm - 9pm
Station and Atlantic Ave.,
Downtown Haddon Heights
This event features craft beers, live music, Food Trucks, and more. A stage will be set for Music and additional music will be placed along the avenue. Look for libations - Live performances- and a day where you can eat sip walk and enjoy up and down town.
Cost: Free
Smithville Mayfest
May 16, 17, 2026
Historic Smithville,
615 E. Moss Mill Rd.,
Galloway, NJ
This event features 150 juried crafters and vendors, an international food court, children's activities, and live entertainment.
Cost: Free
Wildwoods International Kite Festival
May 22, 23, 24, 25, 2026
On the Beach at Rio Grand Avenue,
Wildwood, NJ
Free to spectators.
The Wildwoods International Kite Festival brings four days of color, wind, and pure coastal spectacle. Giant inflatable kites, precision sport kite teams, and family flying sessions fill the shoreline. It's one of the East Coast's signature kite events, festive, and perfect for anyone who loves big skies and beachside fun.
Cost: Free
Cost: Free
New Jersey Renaissance Faire
May 23-24, 30-31, June 6-7, 13-14, 2026
Burlington County Fairgrounds,
1990 Jacksonville Jobstown Rd.,
Columbus, NJ
The grounds are transformed into a lively medieval village filled with costumed performers, artisan vendors, and interactive entertainment. Expect jousting tournaments, comedy shows, live music, themed food and drink, and plenty of opportunities to mingle with knights, rogues, and royalty.
Cost: $33.36 (Adult Flex), $28.19 (Adult Fixed ), $12.66
(Child FLEX Day Age 5-12)
Wildwoods Boardwalk Crafts Show
May 23, 24, 2026
Under backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean and the iconic Wildwoods sign, the shows feature an array of talented artisans and crafters, offering everything from handcrafted jewelry and home décor to unique artwork and beach-inspired treasures. Whether you're looking for the perfect souvenir or simply soaking in the sights and sounds, the Boardwalk Crafts Shows provide a delightful shopping experience.
Cost: Free
Frequently Asked Questions About
New Jersey May Events and Festivals
Welcome to the ultimate guide for experiencing May in the Garden State! May is the bridge between spring's bloom and summer's sizzle, making it one of the most exciting months for outdoor fun, festivals, and adventure.
Below are the most common questions people have about planning their perfect New Jersey May.
What is the weather actually like in May?
May is a transitional month. Early May can feel like a crisp spring day with highs in the 60s, while by Memorial Day weekend, it often feels like full-blown summer with highs creeping into the 80s. You can expect plenty of sunshine, but occasional spring showers are always a possibility.
How should I dress for a day of outdoor fun?
The golden rule for May in NJ is **layering**. Wear a breathable t-shirt or tank top, but bring a light jacket, flannel, or hoodie for the morning or evening breeze. If you are heading to the coast, remember that the ocean breeze drops the temperature by 10-15 degrees compared to inland areas. Always wear comfortable walking shoes, especially if you are exploring outdoor festivals or state parks.
Is it warm enough to go to the beach?
You can absolutely go to the beach, but it depends on what you want to do. By mid-to-late May, sunbathing is highly popular. However, the Atlantic Ocean temperature is still quite brisk (usually in the mid-50s to low-60s). Swimming is generally for the brave, but it's perfect weather for walking the boards, playing beach volleyball, or dining at waterfront restaurants.
What kind of outdoor adventures are open?
Almost everything! May marks the opening season for many of the state's adventure parks, including treetop zip-lining and obstacle courses. It's also prime time for kayaking and paddleboarding on the state's many rivers and lakes. For thrill-seekers, coastal parasailing and jet-ski rentals typically kick off their seasons right around mid-May.
Is May a good time for hiking?
It is arguably the *best* time for hiking in New Jersey. The trees are fully leafed out, creating a lush canopy, but the bugs (like mosquitoes and ticks) haven't reached their peak summer numbers yet. The weather is cool enough that you won't overheat on steep elevations, making it perfect for exploring the state's rugged trails and scenic waterfalls. *(Note: Always do a thorough tick check after hiking!)*
What kinds of festivals happen in May?
May is festival season in full swing. You can expect to find massive outdoor food truck rallies, spring craft beer and wine tasting events, and street fairs featuring local artisans and live music. Because of the maritime culture, you'll also find several nautical-themed celebrations and "blessing of the fleet" events in shore towns.
Are there any good options for families with young kids?
Absolutely. May is packed with family-friendly weekend activities. Many local farms host spring festivals featuring petting zoos, pony rides, and carnival games. You will also find outdoor Renaissance Faires, kite-flying festivals on the beach, and many municipal parks begin their free outdoor summer concert and movie series on weekend evenings.
What about nightlife and live music?
As the weather warms, the entertainment shifts outdoors. Many bars, breweries, and live music venues move their stages to patios, lawns, and beer gardens. You'll find a mix of local cover bands, tribute acts, and touring musicians playing under the stars almost every weekend.
What local foods are in season during May?
May is the month where New Jersey's agricultural scene truly wakes up. You'll find asparagus, radishes, and spring onions at the farmer's markets. Most excitingly, late May is typically the kickoff of the famous NJ strawberry season!
Can I go fruit picking in May?
Yes, but mostly just at the very end of the month. Late May is when many farms open their fields for "pick-your-own" strawberries. It's highly recommended to check farm websites daily, as opening dates depend entirely on the spring weather.
Is Memorial Day Weekend really as crazy as people say?
Yes! Memorial Day Weekend (MDW) is the unofficial start to the New Jersey summer. Shore towns, coastal highways, and popular lakeside destinations will be packed. It is the busiest weekend of the month, featuring the largest festivals, the first major beachgoer crowds, and heavy traffic.
