The Ultimate Outdoor Summer Music Festival Guide in New Jersey: 2026

Updated: August 31, 2026

A New Jersey summer night has its own soundtrack. You hear it before you see it, a snare pop over the trees, a bass line rolling past food trucks, the crowd's cheer bouncing off storefronts. Lawn chairs open like accordions.

New Jersey is filled with music all summer long. Plan a night out with friends or family and soak in the local talent.

New Jersey's 2026 summer music festivals include jazz, rock, country, blues, folk, electronic, reggae, Caribbean, and classical music events.
Northern New Jersey highlights include the Jersey City Jazz Festival, Crawfish Fest, Maplewoodstock, Montclair Jazz Festival, and One Love Music Fest.
Central New Jersey options include the Princeton Festival, EarthVibes Music & Wellness Festival, Asbury Park Jazz Fest, Sea.Hear.Now, and the New Jersey Folk Festival.
Southern New Jersey features the Barefoot Country Music Fest, Cape May Music Festival, Delaware Valley Bluegrass Festival, XPoNential Music Festival, and Wildwoods Food & Music Festival.
Festival costs range from free community events to multi-day ticketed festivals with camping, VIP, and premium admission options.

Explore the options below and discover the perfect New Jersey Summer Music Festival for your weekday or weekend outing.

The can't-miss Northern New Jersey Summer Music Festivals for 2026 (dates, vibes)

Jersey City Jazz Festival
Tuesday, May 26 until Sunday, May 31, 2026
On the Hudson River Waterfront, at Exchange Place Plaza, Jersey City, NJ
A vibrant, open air celebration of live music. Across multiple stages, top regional and national jazz artists deliver everything from smooth and soulful sets to high energy big band performances, all framed by sweeping skyline views. It’s an easygoing, family friendly week of culture, food vendors, and waterfront atmosphere—perfect for jazz lovers and anyone who wants to soak up one of Jersey City’s signature spring events.
Cost: Free. VIP Ticket $200

Michael Arnone's Crawfish Fest
May 29 - 31, 2026
Sussex County Fairgrounds, 37 Plains Road, Augusta, NJ
A three day celebration of Louisiana culture, built around a powerhouse lineup of Cajun, Zydeco, Delta Blues, New Orleans R&B, Brass Band music, Gospel, and Jazz.
The festival brings the spirit of New Orleans to rural New Jersey—music, food, dancing, and community all wrapped into one lively, family friendly event.
Cost: $53.31 | Children 13 and under Free

Under Cover Music Fest
Saturday, May 30, 2026
Sloan Street Parking Lot, 12 Sloan Street, South Orange, NJ
This event fatures a full day of epic cover band performances. Enjoy eight cover bands, plus local food vendors, a kids zone, and a beer garden.
Cost: Free

Rock Hunger IX
Saturday, June 6, 2026: 2 pm
Old Canal Inn, 2 East Passaic Ave, Nutley, NJ
A high-energy music festival, featuring several well-respected local bands.
Live music performers include Porch Rockers, The Sticky Wickets, Project Blue Book, and The Anna Felice Band!
Rock Hunger is a franchised event with national recognition. All proceeds benefit NFSB programs including the Food Pantry.
Cost: $25 per person, purchased in advance online.

Spring Shedfest Raritan Headwaters Music Festival
Sunday, June 7, 2026
Fairview Farm Wildlife Preserve, 2121 Larger Cross Road, Far Hills, NJ
This family friendly music festival located on a beautiful wildlife preserve, features live music, kid's activities, food trucks, and local craft beer & cider.
Cost: Online $35 | At the Door $50 | Kids 12 and under Free

The Sustainably Green Music & Arts Festival
Saturday, June 13, 2026:10am to 5pm
44 E. Washington Ave., Washington, NJ
This family event features a day of live music, ecofriendly vendors, crafters, artists, free kids activities, shopping, & dining!
The day is filled with activities relating to the environment, green practices, and recycling initiatives. Don't miss out on the multiple live musical acts throughout the day, kid's activities, and plenty of vendors.
Cost: Free

The North To Shore Jersey festival
June 17, 18, 20, 21, 25, 26, 27, 28, 2026
Prudential Center, New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC)
Newark, NJ
The North to Shore Festival brings a packed stretch of music, comedy, film, and cultural programming to Newark with major performances split between the Prudential Center and NJPAC. Expect a mix of big name headliners, rising artists, community showcases, and multidisciplinary events that highlight Newark's creative energy.
Cost: Ticket prices vary widely depending on the performer and venue, generally ranging from about $25 for entry level seats to $150+ for premium or marquee shows, with some community events offered at low cost or free.

Fanwood Summer Fan Jam
Sunday, June 21, 2026:11am - 7pm
La Grande Park, 170 La Grande Avenue, Fanwood, NJ
This family festival features Live Bands, Food Trucks with specialty foods for all tastes, a Kid Zone with rides and activities.
Cost: Free

Rock, Ribs and Ridges Festival
June 26 to 28, 2026
Sussex County Fairgrounds, 37 Plains Road, Augusta, NJ
Rock, Ribs and Ridges is a three-day outdoor bash, with a road trip feel even if you live 30 minutes away. You can post up all day, grab barbecue from competing vendors, and let the music do the heavy lifting.
The genre leans rock, with a mix of classic-leaning acts and crowd-pleasers.
Best for friend groups, couples, and families who want a full weekend, not a single night.
Cost: Friday - GA Advance $45.20 | Saturday - Sunday - GA Advance $70.55 | 3-Day GA - Advance $157.20 | Children ages 12 and under Free

Annual Maplewoodstock Music & Arts Festival
Saturday and Sunday, July 11, 12, 2026
Memorial Park, Dunnell Rd. and Jefferson Avenue, Maplewood, NJ
A family family festival ia a celebration of community music and art. It features over 20 bands, 50 art vendors, 20 food vendors, Beer Garden, Kid Zone and more!
Cost: Free

Salsa In the Park
Friday, August 14 2026
204 Flanders-Drakestown Rd, Budd Lake, NJ
A night of salsa and Latin dance music under the open sky. Horn lines snap, congas roll, and the rhythm pulls people onto the grass, so the park feels like a street festival.
It stands out because the vibe is easy and communal, and everyone's welcome, from serious dancers to families who just want bright, feel-good music.
Cost: Free

Montclair Jazz Festival Downtown Jamboree
Saturday, August 15, 2026: 1pm–9pm
Lackawanna Station, 1 Lackawanna Plaza, Montclair, NJ
Ten hours of live jazz performances spotlight world-class musicians. The event includes food, vendors, and is open to all. This year’s headliner is Christian McBride, a nine-time GRAMMY® winner.
Cost: Free

Morristown Jazz & Blues Festival
Saturday, August 15, 2026
Speedwell Avenue between Headquarters Plaza and 1776, and on The Green, Morristown, NJ
Music fans of all ages will enjoy great music on The Morristown Green. Parking is available in the many public lots and the train station is just a couple of blocks away.
Please bring blankets & lawn chairs.
Cost: Free

One Love Music Fest
Sunday, August 30, 2026: 11am - 8pm
Military Park. Newark, NJ
Newark's biggest Caribbean celebration is a full day of live music, Caribbean food, cultural performances, games, family fun, and community experiences. From reggae to soca, dancehall to konpa, the stage will be electric with non-stop rhythm.
Cost: Free admission

Millburn’s Rocktoberfest
September 26, 2026: 12pm–10pm
Taylor Park, 100 Main Street, Millburn, NJ
This all-day festival features over 30 bands and solo artists on four stages, food, shopping, drinks, and a packed kids’ zone with rides, games, and creative activities for all ages.
Cost: Free

The can't-miss Central New Jersey Summer Music Festivals for 2026 (dates, vibes)

Princeton Festival
June 5 until 21, 2026
Morven Museum & Garden, Princeton, NJ
Set in a tented pavilion on the picturesque grounds, the music festival features a wide mix of opera, orchestral concerts, dance, jazz, Broadway style performances, and special events to Princeton’s outdoor summer setting.
Cost: Depending on performance, and seat location. prices range from Young at Art" RUSH tickets @ $20 for attendees ages to $175.

Spring Shedfest Raritan Headwaters Music Festival
Sunday, June 7, 2026
Fairview Farm Wildlife Preserve, 2121 Larger Cross Road, Far Hills, NJ
Bring your family and friends and enjoy a fun afternoon listening to great local bands, eating delicious food, and enjoying the outdoors at the beautiful wildlife preserve. Shedfest is a fundraiser for Raritan Headwaters
Cost: Online $35. At the Door $50. Kids 12 and under FREE

EarthVibes Music & Wellness Festival
June 12, 13, 14, 2026
127 Yellowbrook Rd, Farmingdale, NJ
A community-focused outdoor vibe with 30+ artists, including local bands, jam, acoustic, world music. Will also include food trucks, yoga, workshops, RV & Car Camping, and live music…workshops all weekend.
Cost: $ 20 - $40 single day, $60 all weekend (no camping) | Camping options range from $125 - $299

North to Shore Festival
June 13, 16, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27, 2026
Stone Pony, Asbury Park, House of Independents, Asbury Park, Park Stage, Freehold, NJ
A lively run of music, comedy, and cultural programming with performances spread across iconic venues including the Stone Pony, House of Independents, and the Park Stage. Expect a mix of major touring acts, Jersey born talent, and multidisciplinary showcases that highlight the Shore’s creative energy.
Cost: Ticket prices vary by artist and venue, generally ranging from about $25 for standard entry to $150+ for premium or high demand shows.

Asbury Park Jazz Fest
June 28, 2026: Noon to 8pm
Sunset Park. Asbury Park, NJ
This event features g lineup of acclaimed jazz musicians, emerging artists, and soulful performances spanning a variety of styles including smooth jazz, funk, blues, Latin jazz, and contemporary fusion. The festival honors Asbury Park's rich musical heritage while spotlighting the diverse talent that continues to shape the modern jazz scene. In addition to the live music, attendees can explore local vendors, food offerings, and the lively arts and culture scene.
Cost: Free to attend

Sound.Wav Music And Arts Festival
Friday, Saturday, July 10, 11, 2026: 1pm - 10pm ( rain or shine)
Pat's 30 Acres, 4103 W Hurley Pond Rd, Wall Township, NJ
Sound.Wav is a two-day electronic music festival built around bass, rhythm, and community. Across three stages, the festival showcases a wide variety of electronic genres including dubstep, house, and more! Sound.Wav puts a strong spotlight on local Tri-State area talent, alongside select regional and national acts, creating a platform for emerging artists to share the stage and connect with new audiences.
Cost: Tickets typically range from about $60 per day, with a 2-day GA weekend ticket on-line for $165.99

Somerset Folk Harp Festival
July 16, 17, 18, 19, 2026
The Westin Princeton, at Forrestal Village, Princeton, NJ
This event features a celebrationof the diversity of music, talent and experience of the folk harp world. The festival with offers over 100 "Live" workshops and events during the festival weekend. Including 4 evening concerts, 3 Lunchtime Concerts, various evening and morning events
Costs: Depending on option ranges from $125 to $545 for the full 4-day event

Shadow Of The City
Friday, August 28, 2026
Stone Pony, Asbury Park, NJ
Headlined by Jack Antonoff's band Bleachers. Its rooted in indie and alternative rock, the festival is known for blending well-known names with emerging artists across a single-day, single-stage lineup
Cost: $78 - $126

New Jersey Folk Festival
Saturday, August 29, 2026
Davidsons Mill Pond Park, South Brunswick, NJ
A full day of traditional music, craft demonstrations, storytelling, and family friendly cultural activities set against a scenic lakeside backdrop. Visitors can explore artisan vendors, enjoy regional food, and experience performances that highlight both local and global folk traditions.
Cost: Free

Long Branch Jazz and Blues Festival
Saturday, August 29, 2026: 1 PM - 9:30 PM (Rain or Shine)
The Great Lawn on the Long Branch Promenade, Boardwalk at 10 Ocean Blv, Long Branch, NJ
This family music festival features a mix of strong national and local musicians performing live Jazz and blues on stage. There will be food trucks, crafters, kids activities, and fireworks at dusk.
Cost: Free

Sea.Hear.Now
September 19, 20, 2026
Asbury Park, NJ
This music festival brings two days of oceanfront music, surf competitions, and immersive art installations to North Beach and Bradley Park. Fans can expect 25+ artists across three stages, local food vendors, and a vibrant boardwalk atmosphere that blends Jersey Shore culture with a major festival experience.
Cost: Ticket prices range from 2 Day GA starting around $199–$309, GA+ from about $555, and VIP options beginning near $499–$850, with prices varying by tier and availability.

Asbury Park PorchFest
Saturday, September 26, 2026
This family-friendly event features more than 600 performances by an amazing group of local bands ranging from Americana to Rap, from blues to Broadway. The Porchfest is a 501c3 charity to support local under-served families.
Cost: Free

The can't-miss Southern New Jersey Summer Music Festivals for 2026 (dates, vibes)

Cape May Music Festival
May 9 to June 21, 2026
Cape May Convention Hall, Rotary Park, Episcopal Church of the Advent, and Inns.
Think of this festival as a music stroll, not a stadium rush. Across 14 performances, you move from historic interiors to breezy outdoor spots, often within a short drive or walk. This festival fits classical fans, jazz-curious listeners, and anyone who likes a strong groove now and then.
Cost: Some concerts are free, Others range in price from $20, $35, $55, $60, and $70, depending on amenities such as lunch, dinner, etc.

Barefoot Country Music Fest
June 18 to 21, 2026
The Beaches of Wildwood
Wildwood in June feels like someone turned the volume up on summer. Barefoot Country Music Fest matches that mood with multi-day stages right on the beach and a flow that starts early and runs late. It's the kind of festival where noon turns into sunset without you noticing. 40+ artists are expected so you're not planning a single headline, you're planning a whole weekend rhythm. The crowd energy is loud and friendly, and the setting does half the work.
Cost: Tickets range in price from GA $99.00, to 4 Day Main Stage VIP $646.72, and 4 Day Super VIP $1,784.87

Haddon Township’s Annual Summer Solstice Music Festival!
Friday, June 19, 2026
Haddon Avenue between Strawbridge Avenue & Cooper Street., Haddon Twp, NJ
Celebrate the season’s arrival with live music, mouthwatering food trucks, roaming performers, lively beer gardens, a dedicated kids’ zone, and endless fun for all ages. Dive into a day of family-friendly festivities, community vibes, and summer magic at this can’t-miss event!
Cost: Free

Fakefest
Monday, June 22 - Sunday, June 28, 2026
Golden Nugget On the casino's deck, Huron Avenue & Brigantine Boulevard, Atlantic City, NJ
Fakefest transforms the Golden Nugget's waterfront deck into a lively, 21+ outdoor concert series packed with top East Coast cover bands delivering spot on tributes to classic rock icons and pop legends. Across seven days, guests can enjoy multiple performances daily in a marina side setting perfect for dancing, singing along, and soaking up summer vibes.
Cost: Free

Into the Pines Music Festival
June 25, 26, 27, 2026
Paradise Lakes Campground, Hammonton, NJ
Three days of live music, camping, and community in the Pine Barrens. The music features a growing lineup of regional and touring acts, in a laid back outdoor setting that blends art, nature, and music for an immersive summer festival experience.
Cost: $189.70 (with camping)

BeachStock 2026
June 27, 2026
between Huntington and Granville Ave., Margate, NJ
BeachStock transforms Margate’s shoreline into a two day celebration packed with music, activities, food, and sun soaked energy. BeachStock features an eclectic mix of live music, blending beach friendly genres like: Reggae Rock Pop Island inspired party music Local band favorites The lineup is intentionally varied to keep the energy upbeat and appeal to a wide audience. The music is designed to feel breezy, summery, and fun—perfect for a day on the sand.
Cost: Free

The Anglesea Blues Festival & New Jersey State Barbecue Championship
July 10-12th, 2026
201 New Jersey Ave, Wildwood, NJ
The Anglesea Blues Festival, is a three-day open-air festival hewld concurrently with The New Jersey State Barbecue Championship. It features both national and regional blues musicians. Throughout the weekend, live entertainment is featured on the outdoor main stage, as well as additional acts in neighboring establishments.
Cost: Free to attend

South Jersey Caribbean Festival
Saturday, July 18, 2026: 2 - 8 PM
Wiggins Park on the Camden Waterfront, 2 Riverside Drive, Camden NJ
The South Jersey Caribbean Festival celebrates the vibrant and diverse culture and traditions of the Caribbean islands. The festival showcases Caribbean art, music, food, and dance.
Cost: Free admission

Lion Heart Music Fest
August 7, 8, 2026
Paradise Lakes Campground, Hammonton, NJ
Two days of live reggae, camping, food, and family on 100 acres of New Jersey roots.
Set against the backdrop of wooded trails and lakeside views, the festival blends live bands, DJs, and community driven activities for a laid back, outdoor celebration. Expect a family friendly vibe with camping, food vendors, and plenty of space to relax between sets.
Cost: $45, $55 (without camping)

South Jersey Seafood & Music Festival
Saturday, August 29, 2026; 11AM to 7PM
Washington Lake Park, Washington Township, NJ
Features live music by Acoustic Soul - from South 47 & Soul Seduction. The event will also include plenty of seafood with a raw bar, kids activities including inflatables, miniature golf, beer, margarita & sangria garden, face painting, henna, vendors and a few other surprises.
Cost: $5 admission, under 5 free

Delaware Valley Bluegrass Festival
September 4, 5, 6, 2026 (Labor Day Weekend)
Woodstown, NJ
This is three days of world class bluegrass, old time, and traditional American roots music to South Jersey. The 2026 lineup features major bluegrass artists such as Kathy Mattea, the Travelin' McCourys, Dan Tyminski Band, Jason Carter & Michael Cleveland, Blue Highway,
Cost: Online- Day tickets - Adult $90, Senior $85, Student $85. Ages 17 and under FREE with adult purchase.

Wildwood End of Summer Block Party & Music Festival
Sunday, September 6, 2026; 1 pm–10 pm
Fox Park, Wildwood, NJ
This event wraps up Wildwood’s summer with live music, family activities, crafts, food vendors, and free children’s entertainment.
Cost: Free

Wildwoods Food & Music Festival
September 12, 2026
Byrne Plaza, along Pacific Avenue between Oak and Schellenger Avenue, Wildwood, NJ
Bring everyone out for two stages of live music, loads of food options, crafters, and contests. There’s a Kids Korner with fun activities like pumpkin painting and bounce houses.
Cost: Free

Boots at the Beach Country Music Festival
September 18, 19, 2026
North Wildwood, NJ
Boots at the Beach brings pure country spirit to the Jersey Shore, transforming Seaport Pier into a lively, toe tapping celebration of music, dancing, and coastal charm. The lineup features modern country bands, country rock groups, line dance friendly performers and DJs spinning country hits.
Cost: Tickets are sold only at the entrance. $10 for a 1 day pass and $15 for a 2 day VIP pass.

Medford Oktoberfest & Music Festival
September 18, 19, 2026
Freedom Park, 86 Union Street, Medford, NJ
Head here for a full menu of rock, folk, and blues played across four stages. Pair craft beer, artisan ciders, and German food with fun activities for kids.
Cost: Admission and on-site parking free.

XPoNential Music Festival
September 18 – 20, 2026
Wiggins Park & Waterfront Music Pavilion, Camden, NJ
This three-day festival features more than 30 performances across three stages. Expect a mix of established and up-and-coming artists, many heard on Philadelphia’s WXPN 88.5FM.
Cost: Adult $101.85 to $111.85, Kids between the ages of 2 - 12 years old $16.15

Frequently Asked Questions About
New Jersey Summer Music Festivals in 2026

What are some of the best summer music festivals in New Jersey in 2026?

Popular options in the guide include Sea.Hear.Now in Asbury Park, Barefoot Country Music Fest in Wildwood, the Montclair Jazz Festival, Crawfish Fest in Augusta, the Princeton Festival, and the Delaware Valley Bluegrass Festival in Woodstown. The best choice depends on the music genre, location, dates, and budget.

Which New Jersey summer music festivals are free in 2026?

Free events listed in the guide include the Jersey City Jazz Festival, Under Cover Music Fest, Fanwood Summer Fan Jam, Maplewoodstock, Montclair Jazz Festival, Morristown Jazz & Blues Festival, One Love Music Fest, and several Wildwood and South Jersey festivals. Visitors should confirm admission details with each festival's official website before attending.

Which New Jersey music festivals are family-friendly?

Family-friendly events in the guide include Crawfish Fest, Spring Shedfest, Fanwood Summer Fan Jam, Maplewoodstock, the New Jersey Folk Festival, Asbury Park PorchFest, and the Wildwood End of Summer Block Party. Many include children's activities, food vendors, open-air performances, or free admission for children.

Where can I find major outdoor concert venues in New Jersey?

Major outdoor venues listed in the guide include MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, Stone Pony Summer Stage in Asbury Park, Freedom Mortgage Pavilion in Camden, and ParkStage at the East Freehold Fairgrounds. Each venue has different seating, parking, ticketing, and event policies.

How much do New Jersey summer music festivals cost?

Admission ranges from free community festivals to premium multi-day events costing several hundred dollars. Examples include free festivals such as Montclair Jazz Festival, single-day events with tickets around $25 to $70, and larger festivals with general admission, VIP, camping, or multi-day packages.