By Steffen Klenk
Labor Day Weekend is here. While this traditionally means the height of tourist season comes to an end, there are still plenty of activities and happenings at the southern Jersey Shore this fall. Here are some favorite events that you can look forward to this month.
Good Old Days in Somers Point
This end-of-summer bash at Somers Point’s John F. Kennedy Park celebrates its 45th anniversary this year. The event will feature a full day of live music from popular local bands, including Plaid Salmon, The Turtleheads, and The Notion. Plus, there will be an endless array of food and drinks, crafters, vendors, activities for the kids, and classic cars on display. The event is presented by the Somers Point Historical Society and is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 7, from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Free admission
Downbeach Seafood Festival
Some of South Jersey’s most popular restaurants will converge on Ventnor’s Ski Beach for this annual seafood soiree, presented by Good Time Tricycle Productions. Not into seafood? Not to worry! There will be nearly two dozen food trucks waiting to satisfy every taste bud, along with live music, entertainment, and a Chowder Cook-Off to benefit the Community FoodBank of New Jersey. The festivities will take place, Saturday, Sept. 14 from 12– 7 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 15 from 12 – 6 p.m. Tickets start at $10 and include early admission.
Air Show Weekend in Ocean City
Ocean City will host a spectacular weekend of activities designed for airplane enthusiasts young and old. The fun begins on Saturday, Sept. 14, as the Municipal Airport presents its annual Airport Festival from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. There will be a ground display of unusual airplanes, ranging from World War II Planes to Warbirds and Classics. Then, make your way to the Boardwalk at 8 p.m. and watch as Team Fastrax lights up the night sky with a dazzling parachute and pyrotechnics display. And on Sunday, Sept. 15 at 1 p.m., keep your eyes on the sky for the Boardwalk Aerobatics Show. Brings your beach chairs and blankets and enjoy the show between 6th – 14th St. Free admission
Fall Funfest in Margate
Family fun awaits at Margate’s annual Fall Funfest by the Bay. More than 100 vendors line the streets of Amherst Ave. along the city’s marvelous bayfront for this free event. From local crafters and businesses to nonprofits and city services, two stages of live entertainment, including kids activities and music, a weekend of parades featuring Miss New Jersey, a dog show at Steve & Cookie’s, and Funfest After Dark ($). The event will run Saturday, Sept. 28 from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Sunday, Sept. 29, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Free admission
Thrills and Chills at Flemings Junkyard
The Scullville Volunteer Fire Company will host its annual Terror in the Junkyard at Flemings Junkyard, located at 353 Zion Rd. in Egg Harbor Township. Arriving in time for spooky season, this popular event is sure to bring the frights. Ride the haunted hayride, where spooks lurk around every corner, or walk through the maze… if you dare. Opening night is Friday, Sept. 27 from 7 – 10 p.m. Visit www.scullvillefire.org/hayride for up-to-date ticket information and hours.
Shops, Dining, and Fun at Historic Smithville
There is nothing quite like the glory and splendor of Historic Smithville, especially during the fall. Stroll along the quaint village as you visit over 60 shops and eateries or take in the beauty of Village Greene as you ride the train or hop on the merry-go-round. There is a plethora of activities nearly every weekend, from the Art Walk on Saturday, Sept. 14, to the annual Italian Festival Saturday, Sept.21, and the ever popular Oktoberfest Saturday, Oct. 5 & Sunday, Oct. 6. Visit www.historicsmithville.com for the full calendar of events. Free admission
Who says summer must end?
If you’re not ready to put away your beach chairs and flip-flops just yet, take a stroll along our local boardwalks. Many of your favorite local shops, restaurants, and eateries, will remain open through mid-October, providing the perfect opportunity to soak in those summer vibes a little longer. Grab a bucket of French fries, play a round of mini golf, or, if you’re in Ocean City, go for one final ride on the giant wheel and carousel at Gillian’s Wonderland Pier.
No matter what activities you choose, we hope you enjoy the upcoming fall season in South Jersey and enjoy the splendor of our region well into the coming months. And be sure to check out our weekly Events and Happenings calendar in-print and online for even more exciting festivities.
Archive photos by Steffen Klenk
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.
