Your ultimate guide to sun, sand, and Jersey Shore fun!
Once Memorial Day hits, you know summer is officially here. And there’s no better place to kick off your summer vacation than The Wildwoods. With five miles of wide, free beaches, a jam-packed weekend of events, and that unmistakable boardwalk buzz, this beloved shore town kicks off the season in true Wildwoods fashion.
Memorial Day Weekend Events
Memorial Day Ceremonies and Tributes
Flags of Liberty Ceremony
Friday, May 23 at 10 a.m. | Wildwoods Boardwalk
Join the Greater Wildwoods Elks Lodge and GWTIDA for a powerful tribute as more than 70 American flags—each once draped over the casket of a veteran—are unfurled in a moving public ceremony honoring those who served.
Event info
Run to Remember (Patrick Corcoran 5K)
Sunday, May 25 at 8:30 a.m. | North Wildwood
This annual 5K and 1-mile walk supports veterans and honors fallen heroes. All proceeds benefit those who have served, and all fitness levels are welcome.
Register here
Wildwood Memorial Day Ceremony
Monday, May 26 at 11 a.m. | American Legion Post 184
This ceremony honors our nation’s fallen service members on the front lawn of the American Legion.
Details
North Wildwood Memorial Day Ceremony
Monday, May 26 at 1 p.m. | Veterans Memorial Park
Hosted by VFW Post 5941, this afternoon ceremony offers another opportunity to pause and reflect in a beautiful setting near the sea.
Event info
Kickoff to Summer Events
If you’re coming for the beach time, The Wildwoods doesn’t disappoint! These are New Jersey’s best beaches for a reason. They’re clean, wide open, and completely free. Play a round of beach volleyball, stroll along the shore, ride the waves, read a book, or do absolutely nothing at all. Beach season starts now, and you get to enjoy it your way.
Shopping, Browsing, and Outdoor Markets
Saturday, May 24 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | Byrne Plaza
Fresh produce, breakfast bites, homemade pickles, local honey, artisan crafts, and over 70 vendors await at this beloved Saturday market.
More info
Boardwalk Craft Show
Saturday, May 24 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, May 25 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Stroll the southern end of the Wildwoods Boardwalk and explore booths filled with handmade jewelry, coastal décor, sweet treats, and beachy finds.
Event details
Music, Fitness, and Beachfront Fun
Wildwood Crest Summer Kick-Off Concert – FREE
Sunday, May 25 at 7 p.m. | Centennial Park
Celebrate the return of warm nights with live music by Big House. Bring your beach chairs or a blanket and dance to classic hits by the shore.
Concert info
Fitness in the Plaza Bootcamp
Friday, May 23 and Monday, May 26 at 8:30 a.m. | Byrne Plaza
Don’t take a vacation from fitness. Dion’s high-energy bootcamp classes include creative workouts and are open to all levels. $10 per class.
Yoga on the Beach
Daily at 9 a.m. | Burk Ave. behind the Wildwoods Convention Center
Practice traditional Hatha yoga infused with Qi Gong right on the sand. $8 per session. All experience levels welcome.
Events for the Whole Family
Wildwoods International Kite Festival – FREE
May 23 to May 26 | Rio Grande Ave. Beach and Wildwoods Convention Center
This colorful tradition features massive kites flying over the beach, illuminated night kite displays, family games, and the popular indoor kite exhibition.
Festival schedule
Atlantic Parasail, Banana Boat Rides & Other Wildwoods Excursions
Beginning Memorial Day Weekend
Get your adrenaline fix as you soar above the shoreline or bounce across the waves on a banana boat ride. Reservations required.
Boardwalk Shops and Snacks
All stores are open by Memorial Day Weekend, with many opening earlier in the season. Grab fries, fudge, funnel cake, and all your favorite shore treats as you explore the boards.
Find Your Perfect Stay
With a wide range of accommodations to choose from, finding the perfect place to stay in Wildwood is easy. From beachfront hotels and cozy motels to vacation rentals and campgrounds, there’s an option to suit every budget and preference. Many accommodations offer convenient amenities like pools, hot tubs, and on-site dining.
Tip: Book your accommodations early, especially for Memorial Day weekend, to ensure availability.
See You at the Shore
Memorial Day Weekend in The Wildwoods is the official start to the season. With heartfelt ceremonies, family-friendly events, and that unmistakable energy of summer, it’s the kind of weekend you’ll want to relive all year. Pack your flip-flops, bring your appetite, and let the summer fun begin.
