Events at a Glance
By Joanna Gorecke
Sept. 4
Thursdays at Surfside: Triple Rail Turn
7-9pm, Surfside Park, avalonrecreation.org
Bring your beach chairs and enjoy the last Thursdays at Surfside event of 2025, featuring music by Triple Rail Turn, a country music tribute band. The concert will move indoors to the Community Hall in the event of inclement weather.
Sept. 5-7
End-of-Summer Shop Hop
Participating businesses around Avalon, visitavalonnj.com
Shop till you drop all weekend at Avalon’s annual End-of-Summer Shop Hop! Participating stores will offer special deals on clothing, shoes, apparel, accessories, home décor, and more! Take a break for lunch with specials all weekend at Bobby Dee’s Rock ’n Chair.
Sept. 6
Barefoot Ball
5-9pm, ICONA Windrift, 105 80th St., dillerblindhome.org
This is an evening to benefit the Helen L. Diller Vacation Home for Blind Children. Guests will enjoy ocean views, live music, cocktails, and hors d’oeuvres on the beautiful Level 2 of the ICONA Windrift for a great cause. There will be live and silent auction items, and the 2025 scholarship awards will be presented.
Sept. 9
Understanding Dementia
11am-noon, Avalon Free Public Library, 235 32nd St., avalonfreelibrary.org
Presented by Alzheimer’s NJ, this program is designed to provide caregivers and those in the community with a comprehensive overview of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. They will learn about the various stages of Alzheimer’s disease, the process of getting a diagnosis, strategies for caring for someone with dementia, and much more. This program will be offered in person and virtual. Register online or at the circulation desk.
Sept. 11
9/11 Memorial Quiet Reflection
Freedom Park 96th Street, stoneharbornj.org
Stone Harbor Freedom Park offers a place in town for quiet reflection in remembrance of September 11. All are welcome to visit at their own time to honor and reflect.
Avalon History Center Presents: The Guards
6-7pm, Avalon Free Public Library, 235 32nd Street, avalonfreelibrary.org
Tom McCann discusses his new book The Guards, a comprehensive history of life guarding from Brigantine to Cape May since patrols were first organized in the late 1800’s. This presentation will be at the library.
Sept. 12
Coffee and Crafting
10:30-11:30am, Avalon Free Public Library, 235 32nd St., avalonfreelibrary.org
Enjoy coffee or tea while you craft at this monthly drop-in program! Bring a project to work on, or try one from the library. Their self-guided mystery crafts are designed to help you creatively reimagine odds and ends from previous craft programs. No registration required.
Sept. 13
Crafty Creations: Kids Can Create!
10am, Avalon Free Public Library, 235 32nd St., avalonfreelibrary.org
Join the Avalon Free Public Library for a fun-filled morning of hands-on crafts designed just for little ones 7-and-under! Let your imagination run wild as you create, play, and explore. No registration needed.
Sept. 17
Monarchs & Migration at the Avalon Coastline
6pm, Avalon Community Hall, avalonfreelibrary.org
Co-sponsored with the Environmental Commission, this presentation will highlight the journeys of the monarch butterfly to the seagulls on the beach. This event also includes a live monarch-tagging demonstration, as available.
Sept. 18
Tea Time at the Avalon History Center
11am-noon, 215 39th St., avalonfreelibrary.org
The Avalon History Center will be serving up tea, snacks, and good times. Share memories of old Avalon and make new ones among friends and community.
Sept. 19
Avalon History Center Presents: Colonial Taverns of New Jersey
11am, Tennis Building, 250 39th St., avalonfreelibrary.org
In his book, author Michael C. Gabriele explores the lives of New Jersey’s lesser-known Revolutionary figures and reveals how taverns became the backdrop for the colony’s transformation into statehood.
Play With Jack Foundation Golf Outing
Noon, Avalon Golf Club, playwithjackfoundation.com
Spend a perfect fall day hitting the golf course for a great cause! The Play With Jack Foundation was established to raise funds and awareness in an effort to fight cancer in Jack Cremin’s honor. The 24th annual event begins with registration and lunch at noon, followed by a 1pm shotgun start.
Savor En Blanc
6-9pm, 96th Street under the stars, stoneharborchamber.com
Enjoy an evening of dinner and dancing under the stars on 96th Street with friends. This ticketed event invites guests to dress in white and bring their own food, drinks, and table setup – while enjoying the live music provided. Reservations can be made through the Stone Harbor Welcome Center.
Sept. 20
Tim Kerr Charities Point to Point Bay Swim
9am, 23rd Street Public Dock, timkerrcharities.org
This event benefits Tim Kerr Charities and is a great way to familiarize yourself with open-water swimming. The starting point is the 23rd Street Public Dock off Ocean Drive, and the swim concludes at the Avalon Yacht Club, 704 7th St. Participants will receive a swim cap, chip timing, and a premium Tultex hoodie. Registration is required: runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Avalon.
Savor September Festival
11am-7pm, 96th Street, stoneharborchamber.com
Savor September in Stone Harbor as the 200 block of 96th Street transforms into a large showcase of food, wine, and beer. Enjoy tasting tents, live music, and local vendors. Purchase your beer/wine tasting package and receive a souvenir wine glass.
In Concert: John Walter Cape Community Band
2pm, Avalon Free Public Library, 235 32nd St., avalonfreelibrary.org
Founded in 1996 by Avalon resident John Walter, the John Walter Cape Community Band has been delighting audiences across Cape May County with its lively and diverse performances. This year’s concert theme, “Fun in the Sun,” promises an entertaining mix of music that will have your toes tapping and hands clapping. Bring the whole family to the Avalon Free Public Library for a feel-good performance that will appeal to all ages.
Avalon Lions Club Fall Concert: The Fabulous Greaseband
Doors 6pm, Concert 7pm, Avalon Community Hall, avalonlions.com
The Fabulous Greaseband, a longtime Avalon favorite, will be playing oldies to dance to! Bring your own food and drinks. Advance tickets and table reservations are required and available at Community Hall, Mondays and Fridays from 10am-noon.
Sept. 24
Bracing for Impact: Navigating Cape May County’s Stormy Seasons
6pm, Avalon Free Public Library, 235 32nd St., avalonfreelibrary.org
Cape May County has experienced everything from tropical cyclones to powerful nor’easters. Join meteorologist Joe Martucci of “Cup A Joe Weather & Drone” at the Avalon Library for an engaging session focused on preparedness, awareness, and evacuation planning during extreme weather events. Learn how to stay informed and ready when storms strike.
Sept. 26
Fall Felting Workshop
1-3pm, Avalon Free Public Library, 235 32nd St., avalonfreelibrary.org
Join the Avalon Free Public Library for a fun and hands-on felting workshop where you’ll learn to create handmade felted pumpkins – perfect for autumn décor or gifting! This class is great for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced felters. Registration is required: Avalon property owners may register starting Aug. 26 at 9:30am, and all others may register beginning Sept. 9. Call 609-967-7155 to sign up. Space is limited.
Sept. 27
Drop-in Flu Shot Clinic
Noon-3pm, Avalon Free Public Library, 235 32nd St., avalonfreelibrary.org
Stop by for a drop-in flu clinic with Acme Pharmacy at the Avalon Free Public Library. Flu shots are free with most insurances – just bring your ID and insurance card. Both regular and high-dose vaccines will be available while supplies last.
Music with Friends: A Concert to Benefit Friend In Need
1-6pm, Lazy Bass Bayside Bar & Grill, friendinneednj.com
Join Friend In Need for Music with Friends at the Lazy Bass (5 Old N. Wildwood Blvd., North Wildwood). The afternoon of great vibes and live music will feature Marnie & Nate, Out of Order, Short Wave, The Collective, and Maintenance (Gordon Vincent). A $10 donation at the door supports those in need within our community.
Sept. 30
Health Ease: Bone Health and Fall Prevention
2-3pm, Avalon Free Public Library, 235 32nd St., avalonfreelibrary.org
Learn practical ways to keep your bones strong and reduce the risk of falls during this informative 1-hour session. Topics include nutrition, exercise, home safety, and more. Presented by the Cape May County Department of Health, this program was developed through the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services.
Oct. 3
George Mason & the Founding of the Nation
2-3pm, Tennis Building, 250 39th St., avalonfreelibrary.org
Presented by Tom Hood, this talk will discuss George Mason’s life and the importance of his contributions to the founding of the United States.
Oct. 4
Music by Tal Naccarato: Blues and Folk
1pm, Avalon Free Public Library, 235 32nd St., avalonfreelibrary.org
Composer, songwriter, and instrumentalist Tal Naccarato brings his authentic blend of blues, folk, and Americana to the Avalon Free Public Library in an acoustic concert featuring both classics and original works.
Oct. 9
Mindfulness for Balance and Peace
1:30-2:30pm, Avalon Free Public Library, 235 32nd St., avalonfreelibrary.org
Decades of research show mindfulness boosts physical health, mental clarity, and overall well-being. These classes, led by Linda Schwartz at the Avalon Free Public Library, help reduce stress, release unhelpful habits, and foster connection through gratitude practice, body scans, guided meditation, and group dialogue.
Oct. 10
Coffee and Crafting
10:30-11:30am, Avalon Free Public Library, 235 32nd St., avalonfreelibrary.org
Enjoy a relaxing morning with coffee or tea while you work on your latest project – or start something new! Bring your own craft or try one from the library. Check out the self-guided “mystery crafts,” created from leftover materials from past programs. No registration required, just drop in and get creative!
Cooking with Microgreens
1pm, Avalon Senior Center, 3100 Dune Drive, avalonfreelibrary.org
Ozzy Elqaisi will explore delicious, easy-to-make recipes using microgreens grown at his local church-based farm. Registration is required. Avalon property owners may register beginning Sept. 10 at 9:30am. All others may register beginning Sept. 24. To register, call 609-967-7155 or go to avalonfreelibrary.org. Space is limited.
Oct. 11
Avalon Arts & Seafood Festival
10am-5pm, Surfside Park, visitavalonnj.com
Enjoy fresh local seafood, live music, artisan vendors, kids’ activities, and beach hayrides at Avalon’s Arts & Seafood Festival. Don’t miss livestreaming football and beverages at the Sound Advice Lounge, plus unique art and crafts from local makers!
Fur, Feathers and Scales
10am, Avalon Free Public Library, 235 32nd St., avalonfreelibrary.org
Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge is coming to town! Get up close with some of the amazing animals they care for and hear their incredible rescue stories at the Avalon Library.
Oct. 14
American Red Cross Blood Drive
1-6pm, Our Saviour Lutheran Church, Stone Harbor, redcross.org
Mark your calendar to participate in the American Red Cross Blood Drive on Monday, Oct. 14. The church is located at 9212 Third Ave. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are encouraged through the American Red Cross website.
Oct. 16
Tea Time at the Avalon History Center
11am-noon, 215 39th St., avalonfreelibrary.org
The Avalon History Center will be serving up tea, snacks, and good times. Share memories of old Avalon and make new ones among friends and community.
Oct. 18
Fall Beach Sweep
9am-12:30pm, 95th Street Beach, stoneharbornj.org
Join Clean Ocean Action and the Borough of Stone Harbor for the Fall Beach Sweep to help scour the beaches for debris. Volunteers should bring gloves and dress appropriately for the weather. Trash bags and trash pickers will be provided.
Oct. 20
Railroads, Tourism & Commuters at the Jersey Shore
7-8pm, Avalon Free Public Library, 235 32nd St., avalonfreelibrary.org
Once considered a desolate coast, the Jersey Shore became a vacation hub thanks to the railroads, which brought day-trippers and summer visitors alike. As technology shifted, these rail lines adapted to serve commuters, reshaping the shore’s identity. Bill Elwell explores this history at the Avalon Library through vintage timetables and advertisements.
Oct. 24
Watercolor Zentangle
2-3:30pm, Avalon Free Public Library, 235 32nd St., avalonfreelibrary.org
Discover Zentangle—a simple, relaxing drawing method that turns basic patterns into beautiful art. In this 90-minute class, you’ll create your own design using “Inktense” pencils, a paintbrush, and a graphic pen. Registration opens Sept. 24 for Avalon property owners and Oct. 10 for all others. Space is limited.
Oct. 25
Fall Dune Grass Planting
8:30am, Avalon Community Hall, avalonrecreation.org
Join the community in the annual Dune Grass planting! Volunteers will meet at the Community Hall at 8:30am for a brief planting demonstration. Please contact Sue Keen at 609-967-5924 or Chuck McDonnell at 609-967-3066 to sign up. The rain date is Oct. 26.
Stone Harbor Business District Trick-or-Treat
10am-4pm, Downtown Stone Harbor, stoneharborchamber.com
Bring your little ghosts to downtown Stone Harbor to trick-or-treat through participating businesses. Look for GHOST signs on the doors or windows of participating businesses. Sponsored by the Stone Harbor Chamber of Commerce.
Trunk-or-Treat
5-7pm, 30th Street & Avalon Avenue Parking Lot, avalonrecreation.org
Get ready for a spooktacular evening of family fun at Avalon’s Trunk-or-Treat. Wear your best costume and trick-or-treat from creatively decorated car trunks while enjoying treats, music, and festive fun. Hop on a hayride and take a scenic ride along the beach under the fall sky.
Oct. 28
Medicare with Confidence
2pm, Avalon Free Public Library, 235 32nd St., avalonfreelibrary.org
Turning 65 or curious about Medicare? Learn the basics, key terms, enrollment periods, plan options, cost assistance, and 2026 updates in this educational seminar. Presented by Steven Bornfreund of the SMS Insurance Agency, you’ll leave ready to navigate “Medicare with Confidence.”
Oct. 31
Seven Mile Island Trick-or-Treat
5-8pm, Island-wide, avalonrecreation.org or stoneharborecreation.com
Happy Halloween! Register your property for the Trick-or-Treat route and a representative from the Stone Harbor Recreation Department will drop off a wooden pumpkin to mark your house as a part of the festivities. Pick up your map at the 82nd Street recreation building and get ready for a night of fun!
