Top Festivals and Concerts in NJ This Summer
- njeventscene
- Jul 13
- 5 min read
Summer in New Jersey is a vibrant time filled with music, art, and culture. As the weather warms up, the Garden State comes alive with festivals and concerts that cater to all tastes. Whether you are a fan of rock, jazz, or folk music, or you enjoy food festivals and art shows, there is something for everyone. In this blog post, we will explore some of the top festivals and concerts happening in New Jersey this summer. Get ready to mark your calendars and enjoy the best of what NJ has to offer!
The Great New Jersey Festival of Ballooning
One of the most iconic events in New Jersey is the Great New Jersey Festival of Ballooning. Held in Readington, this festival is a feast for the eyes. Picture colorful hot air balloons filling the sky, creating a stunning backdrop against the summer sun.
This year, the festival will take place from July 28 to July 30. Attendees can enjoy balloon rides, live music, and a variety of food vendors. The festival also features activities for kids, making it a perfect family outing.
Key Highlights:
Hot Air Balloon Rides: Experience breathtaking views of the New Jersey countryside.
Live Music: Enjoy performances from local and national artists.
Family Activities: There are plenty of games and crafts for children.
Make sure to arrive early to catch the balloon launches, which are truly a sight to behold.
The Asbury Park Music and Film Festival
Asbury Park is known for its lively arts scene, and the Asbury Park Music and Film Festival is a testament to that. Scheduled for June 2 to June 4, this festival combines music and film in a unique way.
The festival features a lineup of talented musicians and filmmakers, showcasing their work in various venues around Asbury Park. From indie films to live performances, there is something for everyone.
What to Expect:
Live Performances: Enjoy a mix of genres, from rock to hip-hop.
Film Screenings: Watch independent films and documentaries.
Panel Discussions: Engage with filmmakers and artists during Q&A sessions.
This festival is a great way to support local talent while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Asbury Park.
The New Jersey State Fair
The New Jersey State Fair is a classic summer event that brings together the best of agriculture, entertainment, and food. Taking place from August 3 to August 13 in Augusta, this fair is perfect for families and friends looking for a fun day out.
Visitors can enjoy carnival rides, games, and a variety of food options. The fair also features live music, animal exhibits, and competitions.
Highlights Include:
Carnival Rides: Thrilling rides for all ages.
Food Vendors: Indulge in classic fair food like funnel cakes and corn dogs.
Animal Exhibits: Learn about local agriculture and see farm animals up close.
The New Jersey State Fair is a great way to experience the local culture and have a blast with friends and family.
The Montclair Jazz Festival
Jazz lovers will not want to miss the Montclair Jazz Festival, which takes place on August 12. This festival is a celebration of jazz music, featuring both local and national artists.
Held in Nishuane Park, the festival is free to attend and offers a relaxed atmosphere for music lovers. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and enjoy a day of smooth tunes and good vibes.
Festival Features:
Live Jazz Performances: Enjoy a variety of jazz styles from talented musicians.
Food Trucks: Savor delicious food from local vendors.
Family-Friendly Activities: There are activities for kids, making it a great outing for families.
The Montclair Jazz Festival is a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the summer weather while listening to great music.
The Red Bank Guinness Oyster Festival
If you love seafood, the Red Bank Guinness Oyster Festival is a must-visit. Scheduled for September 24, this festival celebrates all things oysters.
Held in the charming town of Red Bank, the festival features live music, food vendors, and, of course, plenty of oysters. Whether you prefer them raw, fried, or in a stew, you will find something to satisfy your cravings.
What to Look Forward To:
Oyster Tasting: Sample a variety of oysters from local vendors.
Live Music: Enjoy performances from local bands.
Craft Beer: Pair your oysters with a selection of craft beers.
The Red Bank Guinness Oyster Festival is a great way to enjoy delicious food while soaking up the lively atmosphere of the town.
The New Jersey Folk Festival
For those who appreciate folk music, the New Jersey Folk Festival is a highlight of the summer. Taking place on April 29, this festival celebrates the rich tradition of folk music and culture.
Held at Rutgers University, the festival features performances from folk artists, workshops, and craft vendors. It is a family-friendly event that encourages participation and community engagement.
Festival Highlights:
Live Folk Music: Enjoy performances from talented folk musicians.
Workshops: Participate in workshops to learn about folk music and dance.
Craft Vendors: Browse handmade crafts and local goods.
The New Jersey Folk Festival is a wonderful way to connect with the community and enjoy the beauty of folk music.
The Jersey Shore Music Festival
The Jersey Shore Music Festival is a celebration of music and summer fun. Scheduled for July 15, this festival takes place at the beautiful Jersey Shore.
With a lineup of diverse musical acts, attendees can enjoy everything from rock to reggae. The festival also features food vendors, craft booths, and activities for kids.
What to Expect:
Diverse Music Lineup: Enjoy performances from various genres.
Food and Crafts: Sample delicious food and shop for unique crafts.
Family Activities: There are plenty of activities to keep kids entertained.
The Jersey Shore Music Festival is a great way to enjoy the beach while listening to fantastic music.
The Hoboken Arts and Music Festival
The Hoboken Arts and Music Festival is a celebration of creativity and talent. Scheduled for September 10, this festival showcases local artists and musicians in a vibrant setting.
Held in the heart of Hoboken, the festival features art displays, live music, and food vendors. It is a great opportunity to support local talent and enjoy a day of art and culture.
Festival Features:
Art Displays: Browse works from local artists.
Live Music: Enjoy performances from local bands and musicians.
Food Vendors: Sample delicious food from local eateries.
The Hoboken Arts and Music Festival is a perfect way to spend a summer day while appreciating the arts.
The Wildwood Crest Music Festival
The Wildwood Crest Music Festival is a family-friendly event that takes place on August 19. This festival features a lineup of talented musicians performing in a beautiful beach setting.
Attendees can enjoy live music, food vendors, and activities for kids. The festival is free to attend, making it an accessible option for families looking for summer fun.
What to Look Forward To:
Live Music: Enjoy performances from various artists.
Food Vendors: Savor delicious food options.
Family Activities: There are plenty of activities to keep kids entertained.
The Wildwood Crest Music Festival is a great way to enjoy the beach while listening to live music.
Celebrate the Summer in New Jersey
New Jersey is bursting with festivals and concerts this summer. From the Great New Jersey Festival of Ballooning to the Montclair Jazz Festival, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you are a music lover, a foodie, or an art enthusiast, these events offer a chance to experience the best of what New Jersey has to offer. So gather your friends and family, and make plans to attend these exciting summer events.
As summer approaches, don’t miss out on the opportunity to create lasting memories at these fantastic festivals and concerts. Enjoy the music, the food, and the company of friends and family. New Jersey is ready to celebrate, and you should be too!
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