It’s August, which means we’re just a few weeks away from the start of school and we’re all back to our regular routines.
I’m seeing friends posting on Facebook from other parts of the country already sending their kids to school.
Fortunately, we still have summer to enjoy here in New Jersey.
It seems like Memorial Day was last month, but we’ve already been through two full months of summer.
Americans begin celebrating the Fourth of July holiday weekend at the Jersey Shore
Getty Images
Summer vacation is something we all look forward to whether you spend it at the Jersey Shore, take a road trip to another beach, or hop on a flight to a tropical destination.
We’re in the last few weeks of perfect beach weather and everyone is trying to fit in events, activities and even one last vacation before Labor Day rolls around.
We’ve had a lot to enjoy this summer, including fireworks, carnivals and fairs like the State Fair in the Meadowlands and the big Balloon Festival that takes place in Hunterdon County.
Some balloons are ready…some need more…hot air. (Photo by Craig Allen)
Some balloons are ready…some need more…hot air. (Photo by Craig Allen)
There have been all kinds of concerts in the Garden State, from music in a park to huge festivals on the beach in Atlantic City.
But there’s still time to soak up the summer and enjoy some family time during these last few weeks of warm weather.
Here are 10 free events happening in the Garden State this month:
Keyport Fire Fair
August 2 – 6
American Legion Dr. & W. Front St., Keyport, NJ
It’s the 54th annual Firemen’s Fair located on the boardwalk at Firemen’s Park in Keyport. The Fair features carnival rides for all ages, carnival games and prizes, great food and more. There will be a fireworks display on the night of August 6. For more information, click HERE.
Free Movies on the Beach: Jenkinson’s
August 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 – 8 p.m
300 Ocean Ave., Pt. Nice beach, NJ
Every Tuesday of the month you can enjoy a movie on the beach at Jenkinson’s Aquarium. That if the weather allows it. For more information, click HERE.
Pier Village Family Fun Night
August 7, 14, 21 and 28 from 12 to 9 p.m
Festival Plaza, Pier Village
Every Sunday of the month, you can see rides, games, miniature golf, a climbing wall, bungee jumping and more. For more information, click HERE.
New Jersey Friends of Clearwater Music Festival
August 6 and 7, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m
Red Bank’s Riverside Gardens Park
This is an annual music festival where proceeds benefit the New Jersey Friends of Clearwater (a 501(C)3 charity). There are 2 stages with local and national performers. You can listen to all kinds of artists from soul, folk, rock, jazz, Latin, country and more. For more information, click HERE.
Ocean Township Italian American Association Annual Italian Festival
10 – 14 August
200 Whalepond Rd., Oakhurst, NJ
If you love the taste of traditional Italian food and heritage and culture, this festival is for you. But there’s not only food, but rides, games, music and more. Click HERE for more information.
Passaic County Fair
11 – 14 August
8 Mountain Ave., Woodland Park, NJ
Nothing says fair like pony rides, games, bounce houses and fair food. Friday and Saturday night will feature a fireworks display and each day will be filled with local music complemented by a beer garden and local food. Click HERE for more information.
New Brunswick Heart Festival
August 13, from 3 to 7 p.m
15 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick, NJ
This festival celebrates all the arts and history New Brunswick has to offer. There will be craft and food vendors, live music and performances, interactive activities, games and more. For more information, click HERE.
Flemington Corn, Tomato and Beer Festival
August 13, from 12 to 8 p.m
Stangl Rd., Flemington, New Jersey
This festival will feature an extensive micro-brewery in the garden, live music, food like New Jersey corn and tomatoes, and family entertainment (there will be a kids’ zone). for more information, click HERE.
Asbury Refresh – vintage collectibles, rarities and uniques
August 13, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m
104 Grand Ave., Asbury Park, NJ
Over 50 vendors selling unique items and all things vintage, rarities and unique collectibles. For more information, click HERE.
Atlantic City Air Show
August 24
Watch the show from the FREE beaches and Atlantic City Boardwalk
The Air Force is sending the Thunderbirds to this air show along with the US Army Golden Knights Parachute Team and other air show performers. For more information, click HERE.
Here are the best places to hike in New Jersey
A trip to New Jersey doesn’t have to be all about the beach. Our state has amazing trails, waterfalls and lakes to enjoy.
From the Pine Barrens to the Appalachian Trail to the hidden gems of New Jersey, you have plenty of options for a great hike. Hiking is a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature, as well as a great workout.
Before we hit the trails and explore some of our listeners’ suggestions, I have some tips on hiking etiquette from American Hiking Society.
If you are going downhill and you meet an uphill hiker, step aside and give the uphill hiker room. A hiker going uphill has the right of way, unless he stops to catch his breath.
Always stay on the trail, you may see side paths, unless they are marked as an official trail, stay away from them. By going off the trail, you can cause damage to the ecosystems around the trail, the plants and wildlife that live there.
You also don’t want to disturb any wildlife you encounter, just keep your distance from the wildlife and keep walking.
Cyclists should yield to hikers and horses. Hikers should also yield to horses, but I’m not sure how many horses you’ll find on New Jersey trails.
If you are thinking of bringing your dog on your walk, you should be on a leash and be sure to clean up all pet waste.
Lastly, consider the weather, if the trail is too muddy, it’s probably best to save your hike for another day.
I asked our listeners for their suggestions on the best places to hike in New Jersey, check out their suggestions:
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The above post reflects the thoughts and observations of New Jersey 101.5 Morning Show Producer Kristen. All opinions expressed are my own.
Questions, corrections or comments? Email Producer Kristen at kristen.accardi@townsquaremedia.com or follow her Instagram.
