May Events at the Jersey Shore
May kicks off the shore season with Memorial Day celebrations and the official start of summer.
22
Events
5
Major Festivals
13
Free Events
8
Categories
Destination Events in May
Major festivals and events worth planning your trip around.
May 15-17, 2026
Varies by venue
Intimate jazz festival featuring Grammy-winning artists in Cape May venues.
Highlights
May 15-17, 2026
Fri 4-9pm, Sat-Sun 11am-9pm
Belmar's 36th annual free seafood festival with 30+ vendors and live music.
Highlights
May 14-17, 2026
Various field trips and programs
48th annual world-class birding festival at one of North America's premier migration sites.
Highlights
May 22-25, 2026
Fri noon-9pm, Sat-Sun 9am-6pm, Mon indoor exhibition
North America's largest kite festival with world-class flyers, night fly, and indoor exhibition.
Highlights
May 8-9, 2026
10am-3pm daily
35th annual classic car show on the Wildwood Boardwalk. Free admission.
Highlights
Major Events
Memorial Day weekend launch of summer with fireworks, rides, and entertainment.
Derby-themed 5K along Spring Lake boardwalk with festive celebrations.
Over 350 crafters and food vendors along Asbury Avenue with live music.
LBI Grand Slam Surf Fishing Tournament
Long Beach Island
Memorial Day weekend team surf fishing tournament on LBI beaches.
Historic Smithville Mayfest
Smithville
Spring craft festival with 100+ vendors in historic colonial village setting.
Aerial demonstrations and beach celebration over Memorial Day weekend.
36th annual free seafood festival with 30+ vendors and 40,000+ visitors.
Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival
Oceanport
30+ food trucks at Monmouth Park with live horse racing Memorial Day weekend.
35th annual hot rod and muscle car show on the Wildwood Boardwalk. Free admission.
Fixed-price dining at Cape May's finest restaurants for one special week.
Sample dishes from dozens of Wildwood restaurants—proceeds support student scholarships.
40th anniversary! North America's largest kite festival—free spectator admission.
Local Events & Celebrations
Jersey Shore Cigar Box Guitar Festival
Neptune City • May 30, 2026
Tuckerton Porchfest
Tuckerton • May 30, 2026
Ventnor Avenue Block Party
Ventnor City • May 9, 2026
Events by Category
Events by County
Monmouth County
6
events
Ocean County
2
events
Atlantic County
5
events
Cape May County
9
events
💡 May Tips
Many seasonal attractions open Memorial Day weekend. Book accommodations early.
May Highlights
Frequently Asked Questions
What events happen at the Jersey Shore in May?
May features 22 events at the Jersey Shore including Memorial Day Events, Jersey Pride, Opening Day Celebrations. May kicks off the shore season with Memorial Day celebrations and the official start of summer.
Are there free events at the Jersey Shore in May?
Yes, 13 of the 22 events in May are free to attend. Many towns host free concerts, parades, and community celebrations.
What should I know about visiting the Jersey Shore in May?
Many seasonal attractions open Memorial Day weekend. Book accommodations early.