Ventnor and Atlantic City share a memorial at their border on Jackson Avenue inscribed with a growing list of names. Among the first were two Atlantic City residents: John O’Neill, retired FBI director of anti-terrorism and director of security at the World Trade Center, and Victor Saracini, pilot of United Flight 175. Both gave their lives on Sept. 11, 2001, and both will be remembered this Sept. 11.
The memorial is one of many September events that remind residents and visitors the region does not close down after Labor Day. From festivals and concerts to outdoor recreation and historic attractions, Atlantic County offers plenty to see and do.
Outdoors and trails
Ventnor’s boardwalk remains a favorite spot for walking and biking well into the fall. Atlantic City, Ventnor and Ocean City have restricted weekend bike hours, but offer ample opportunities. Margate features dedicated bike lanes. Atlantic County also has a 7.5-mile bikeway in Egg Harbor Township, running behind the former Shore Mall to the Atlantic County Institute of Technology in Mays Landing.
Walking is always in season, especially on the Boardwalk. For longer excursions, residents can explore Atlantic County’s expanding brewery and winery trails.
History and culture
The Atlantic County Veterans Museum in Mays Landing is open Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., adjacent to Estell Manor County Park. The park also includes a nature center, historic ruins and hiking trails.
Historic Smithville Village hosts the Antique Classic Car Show Sept. 7, an Art Walk Sept. 13–14, and the Italian Festival Sept. 27–28.
Festivals and food
The Downbeach Seafood Festival returns Sept. 13–14 at Ventnor’s Ski Beach, featuring fresh seafood from local and regional vendors. Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the gate. Children 12 and under are free.
In Mays Landing, Mary Ann and Daniel J. Murphy Jr. Memorial Regatta runs Sept. 6–7 at Lake Lenape Park East, followed later in the month by the Water Lantern Festival on Sept. 27.
Somers Point hosts its Good Old Days Festival Sept. 6 and Art in the Park Sept. 13 at John F. Kennedy Park.
Atlantic City entertainment
Atlantic City continues to deliver big-name entertainment and nightlife.
- George Thorogood and The Destroyers, Tropicana, Sept. 12
- I Love the ’90s Tour with Vanilla Ice, Montell Jordan and more, Hard Rock, Sept. 13
- Elvis Costello & The Imposters with Charlie Sexton, Borgata, Sept. 19
Comedy fans can catch nightly shows at A.C. Jokes in Resorts, the Atlantic City Comedy Club at Tropicana, or Joe Holiday’s “Magical Comedy Hour” Saturdays at Club Wyndham Skyline Tower.
Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall and Anchor Rock Club add to the nightlife with karaoke, trivia, live music, DJ nights and themed events, including Anchor’s “Ghost Mart” Sept. 12.
Hard Rock hosts the Atlantic City Jazz Fest on Sept. 13 with Gerald Albright, Pieces of a Dream and Rebecca Jade.
Year-round appeal
“September is often one of the best months to enjoy the shore with less crowds and more comfortable temperatures,” Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson said. “In addition to our beautiful beaches and boardwalks, Atlantic County offers a variety of amenities and activities free of charge for residents and visitors of all ages.”
