It’s Memorial Day weekend and there’s no better place to kick off the unofficial start of summer than right here at the southern New Jersey Shore. From festivals to farmers markets, beach concerts and headline shows, we’ve compiled some of the most popular activities into one place, giving you an inside look at what’s happening across the region. As the weather heats up, be sure to check out the Wahoo section all season long for all you need to know.
What: Ocean City Unlocking of the Ocean and Business Persons Plunge
Where: Moorlyn Terrace and the Beach
When: Friday, May 23
Time: 12 p.m.
Website: www.oceancityvacation.com
Ocean City welcomes summer in style. With the turning of a key, city officials will mark the beginning of the season, while business owners, clad in their business suits and attire, will march into the ocean to the strains of “Pomp and Circumstance.”
What: Beach Ball Drop on the Atlantic City Boardwalk
Where: Resorts Atlantic City
When: Friday, May 23
Time: 12-5 p.m.
Website: www.resortsac.com
Celebrate the start of Memorial Day weekend with Resorts. The festivities begin just after 12 noon with the Opening of the Sea. Enjoy live music by Sidestory, model painting, fun promotions and prizes, and special giveaways. And at 5 p.m., join special guest Kelsey Grammer for the annual Beach Ball Drop along the world-famous Boardwalk to kick off summer.
What: Ventnor Kickoff to Summer Concert
Where: Ski Beach
When: Saturday, May 24
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Website: www.ventnorcity.org
Ventnor City welcomes the 2025 summer season with a special concert at Ski Beach. This free show will open with “The Voice of Ventnor” Ricky Stevens, followed by an exceptional show by The Exceptions. Bring your chairs and blankets and dance the night away. Food trucks and crafters will be on site.
Who: Alice Cooper
Where: Ocean Casino Resort
When: Saturday, May 24
Time: 8 p.m.
Website: www.theoceanac.com
Alice Cooper returns to Atlantic City as part of his “Too Close for Comfort” tour. Witness a night of extraordinary melodic hard rock and metal, featuring songs from Cooper’s solo career, and hit songs like “Poison,” “No More Mr. Nice Guy,” and “School’s Out.”
What: Dead Zep + Dylan Tribute
Where: The Claridge
When: Sunday, May 25
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Website: www.claridge.com
Tony Mart Presents invites you to experience a night of musical legends featuring the music of Grateful Dead of Led Zeppelin, performed by Waynard Scheller. Plus, relive Bob Dylan’s legendary “My Back Pages” 30th Anniversary Concert with special guest Jaden Lehman from Oteil & Friends. Don’t miss this extraordinary tribute to rock history with special guests, being held this Sunday at the Celebrity Theater.
What: Riddlesbrood Theater: ‘The Magic of Merlin’
Where: Historic Smithville
When: Saturday, May 24 and Sunday, May 25
Time: Saturday, 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. and Sunday, 1 p.m.
Website: www.historicsmithville.com
Riddlesbrood Theater returns to Smithville for a mystical outdoor spectacle. This show is a spellbinding adaptation of the tale of Harken, woven together with a signature comic flair that is sure to make you laugh. Join this fantastical journey into the world of Merlin and experience this magical tale for yourself. The event is free and open to the public.
What: Tropicana Summer Fireworks Display
Where: Tropicana Casino and Resort
When: Saturday, May 24
Time: 10 p.m.
Website: www.caesars.com/tropicana-ac
Experience the excitement of Tropicana’s stunning fireworks displays. These breathtaking shows can be seen from the beach and iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk. Each show will dazzle and light the night sky and is the perfect way to cap off your evening.
Steffen Klenk is a photographer and multimedia journalist who enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life. You may contact Steffen at shorelocalsteffen@gmail.com.
