Asbury Park Asbury Park Music Awards
Annual celebration of the Jersey Shore music scene honoring local artists, venues, and industry professionals at Convention Hall.
Late February
Monmouth County
Jersey Shore Music Festivals 2026
Multi-day music festivals and major concert events across 9 Jersey Shore locations
The Jersey Shore hosts major multi-day music festivals featuring top national acts, emerging artists, and legendary performers. From rock festivals on the beach to jazz celebrations in Victorian towns, these destination events combine world-class music with ocean views and coastal atmosphere.
All Music Festivals
Asbury Park Sea.Hear.Now Festival
Two-day music and surf festival on North Beach featuring 25+ bands on three stages (two in sand, one in park), pro surf competitions, and large-scale art installations. All ages.
September 19-20
Monmouth County
Atlantic City Atlantic City Jazz Fest
Annual jazz festival at Sound Waves inside Hard Rock Hotel & Casino showcasing top jazz performers. Evening celebration of jazz music and culture.
Mid-September
Atlantic County
Loch Arbour Sea.Hear.Now Festival
Sea.Hear.Now music and surf festival in adjacent Asbury Park draws 30,000+ attendees. Loch Arbour residents have walking access to this major two-day beachfront festival.
Mid-September
Monmouth County
Ocean Grove Choir Festival
Annual gathering of Methodist choirs from across the region performing at the Great Auditorium. Features massed choir performances, workshops, and organ showcases celebrating 150+ years of Ocean Grove's musical heritage.
Late June
Monmouth County
Somers Point Somers Point Bayfest
FREEFree outdoor music festival on Bay Avenue featuring live bands, food vendors, craft beer, and waterfront views. Draws 5,000+ visitors annually.
Late July
Atlantic County
Somers Point Memorial Day Weekend Kickoff
FREEOfficial start of summer season with live music at Bay Avenue bars, waterfront dining specials, and extended hours across the strip.
Memorial Day Weekend
Atlantic County
Strathmere Labor Day Sunset Celebration
FREEEnd-of-summer gathering at Deauville Inn with live music and special bay-view dining. Community tradition marking the close of peak season in this quiet beach town.
Labor Day Weekend
Cape-may County
Wildwood Barefoot Country Music Fest
Northeast's largest outdoor country music festival draws 40+ top country artists to Wildwood Beach for four days of live performances and beach party atmosphere.
June 18-21
Cape-may County
Music Festival Planning
- Buy tickets early: Major festivals like Sea.Hear.Now sell out months in advance. Early bird tickets offer significant savings.
- Book accommodations immediately: Hotels and vacation rentals sell out quickly during festival weekends. Reserve as soon as tickets go on sale.
- Check festival policies: Review bag policies, prohibited items, re-entry rules, and age restrictions before arriving.
- Plan for weather: Coastal weather can change quickly. Bring layers, rain gear, and sun protection. Most festivals proceed rain or shine.
- Study the schedule: Multi-stage festivals require strategy. Download the lineup and plan your must-see acts in advance.
- Arrive early: Security lines, parking, and entry can take time. Arrive early to catch opening acts and secure good viewing spots.