Events at a Glance
Barefoot Ball
By Katie Matthews
All dates & times are subject to change.
SEPTEMBER 1
Tuesday Sprouts: Stories and Movement
10am, Avalon Free Public Library, 235 32nd St., avalonfreelibrary.org
Get your little ones out for a fun morning at the library to listen to a book reading, followed by fun music and movement playtime! Suggested for ages 6-and-under.
7 Mile Island Silent Book Club
5-6pm, 96th Street Beach, Stone Harbor, avalonfreelibrary.org
Bring a book and beach chair and join other readers for a silent book club on the beach. There are no assigned books and no discussion required. Sponsored by the Avalon Free Public Library, the Cape May County Library System Stone Harbor Branch, and The Roasted Beat. In case of inclement weather, the event will be canceled.
Sound Bowl Meditation
6:30-7:30pm, Avalon Free Public Library, avalonfreelibrary.org
Experience deep relaxation through a unique guided meditation accompanied by the soothing sounds of crystal singing bowls. This immersive, multisensory session uses healing sound vibrations to help promote balance and well-being. Yoga mats are suggested but not necessary. Presented by Chrissy Ennis of Radiant Pixies Healing & Wellness. Registration is not required.
Paper Peddler Trivia Night
7-9pm, Bobby Dee’s Rock’n Chair, 2409 Dune Drive, avalonfreelibrary.org
Gather a team of friends and put your local knowledge to the test for a Quizzo-inspired trivia game about Avalon’s rich business history and culture! Enjoy old stories, nostalgia, and memorabilia. Prizes will be awarded to the winning teams. Registration is required. Call 609-967-0090 to reserve a table.
SEPTEMBER 2
Dune Walks
9:30am, 48th Street Path, avalonboro.net
Guided by The Wetlands Institute, enjoy 5 miles of pristine, wide beaches while learning about Avalon’s dunes, among the only remaining high dune systems on the East Coast. This experience offers a unique opportunity to explore both the scenic landscape and the environmental efforts that help preserve the beaches. Suggested cost of $3 per person.
Crafty Wednesdays
10am, Avalon Free Public Library, avalonfreelibrary.org
Put on your creative hats and join the library for a fun arts and crafts project every Wednesday. New crafts are featured each week, so there is always something new to experience. Some crafts may benefit from assistance from a caregiver. Alternate crafts will be provided for younger patrons. Best for ages 3-and-up. For more information, go to avalonfreelibrary.org or stop at the library.
SEPTEMBER 3
Thursdays at Surfside
7pm, Surfside Park, 2901 Avalon Ave., avalonfreelibrary.org
Bring your beach chairs and enjoy the final show of the summer concert series brought to you by the Avalon Free Public Library and the Avalon Recreation Department. This concert features BOSTYX, a tribute band playing the music of Boston and Styx. The concert will move indoors to the Avalon Community Hall in the event of inclement weather.
SEPTEMBER 4
Zoom Balloons
10am, Avalon Free Public Library, avalonfreelibrary.org
Kick off Labor Day weekend with an interactive event for the kids. Make it a sweet morning with music, dancing, and balloons to keep smiles on your kids’ or grandkids’ faces!
SEPTEMBER 5
Inlet Walk for Brain Cancer Research
8:30am, 28th Street Boardwalk Path, Avalon, https://bit.ly/3Rhwmdt
Walk it out for a good cause at the second annual Inlet Walk to support Brain Cancer Research in honor of Dennis J. McNichol III, Fred W. Dunhour III, and Jim J. Mack III, who all died of glioblastoma brain cancer in 2025. Stop by the post-walk social at ICONA Windrift (105 80th St., Avalon) from 11am-2pm. All funds raised support research at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
SEPTEMBER 6
Tim Kerr 7 Mile Island Run & TK5K Run/Walk
8:30am, Avalon Community Hall, 30th Street & the beach, timkerrcharities.org
Lace up those running shoes for a scenic end-of-summer trek along the Seven Mile Beach. Choose to run 7 miles or walk or run 5 kilometers along Seven Mile Beach at the 37th Annual Tim Kerr 7 Mile Island Run and TK5K Run/Walk. Sponsors for this year’s race include the Borough of Avalon, Tim Kerr Charities, Inc. and the Avalon Lions Club. Visit timkerrcharities.org to register. Proceeds from this year’s event will benefit the Helen L. Diller Vacation Home for Blind Children and the Ronald McDonald House Charities Philadelphia Division.
SEPTEMBER 6, 13, 20
Stone Harbor Farmers Market
8am-noon, 95th Street Water Tower Plaza, shnj.org
Stroll through an exciting variety of local vendors and discover new favorite baked goods, seasonal produce, spices, specialty sauces, fresh seafood, flowers, and much more at Stone Harbor’s weekly farmers market. This market is a perfect way to experience the flavors and community spirit of Stone Harbor.
SEPTEMBER 10
Estate Planning
5:30pm, Avalon Free Public Library, avalonfreelibrary.org
Join attorney Marianne Johnston and learn about estate and long-term care planning. Discover how to protect your retirement plans, children’s inheritance through a bloodline trust, and assets from nursing homes and Medicaid. No registration required.
SEPTEMBER 11
September 11th Remembrance Ceremony
8:30am, Veterans Plaza, 2101 Dune Drive, Avalon, avalonboro.net
All are welcome to join the Borough of Avalon for a solemn ceremony to honor all individuals who lost their lives in the attack 25 years ago on Sept. 11 with guest speaker Thomas Messer, who served 21 years in the New York Police Department. The ceremony will include patriotic music, invocation, benediction, and a bagpipe rendition of “Amazing Grace” by Thomas Palmer.
SEPTEMBER 11-13
End-of-Summer Shop Hop
Participating Avalon businesses, store hours, 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 from shopping fun with specials at participating restaurants.
SEPTEMBER 12
Tim Kerr Charities Point to Point Bay Swim
10am, 23rd Street & Ocean Drive Public Dock, Avalon, timkerrcharities.org
This 1.2-mile swim benefits Tim Kerr Charities and is a great way to familiarize yourself with open-water swimming. The event kicks off at the 23rd Street Public Dock off Ocean Drive and the course takes you through the finish at the Avalon Yacht Club (704 7th St.). Registration is required.
Jazz Duo Concert
1pm, Avalon Free Public Library, avalonfreelibrary.org
Delight in the sounds of smooth jazz performed by musical duo Brian Betz and Behn Gillece. The duo will play a variety of instruments and the music will include an array of American standards and original compositions. A Q&A session with the musicians will follow.
Barefoot Ball
5-9pm, ICONA Windrift, 105 80th St., Avalon, 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 2026 scholarship awards will be presented.
September 13
1pm, ICONA Windrift, 105 80th St., Avalon, icona.com
Kick back, grab a cold one, and catch all the NFL action at ICONA! Watch the football games that kick off at 1pm and 4:25pm while enjoying food and beer specials. Settle in, cheer on your team, and enjoy gameday.
SEPTEMBER 15
The Founding Mothers
6:30pm, Avalon Free Public Library, avalonfreelibrary.org
Discover the remarkable women who helped shape the early United States. From soldiers and spies to writers, printers, farmers, artists, and scholars, these women played vital roles in the Revolutionary era. Laura Keyes will share their history, bravery, and legacies. This is a Zoom presentation. Patrons can attend in person or register via Zoom. No registration required.
SEPTEMBER 17
Tea Time at the History Center
11am-noon, Avalon History Center, 215 39th St., avalonfreelibrary.org/ahc
All are welcome to enjoy a variety of teas and good company at the History Center. Share old Avalon memories and make new memories while learning about the history of Avalon!
SEPTEMBER 19
Drop-In Flu Shot Clinic
Noon-3pm, Avalon Free Public Library, avalonfreelibrary.org
Get your annual flu shot at Acme Pharmacy’s drop-in flu clinic. Please bring your ID and insurance card. Regular and high-dose versions will be available while supplies last.
Avalon Lions Club Fall Concert: The Fabulous Greaseband
7pm, Avalon Community Hall, 30th Street & the Beach, avalonlions.com
Get ready to dance summer away and welcome the fall season with a longtime Avalon favorite, The Fabulous Greaseband! Bring your own light fare and drinks. Advance tickets and table reservations are required and available at Community Hall, Mondays and Fridays from 10am-noon. Doors open for the event at 6:30pm.
SEPTEMBER 20
1pm, ICONA Windrift, 105 80th St., Avalon, icona.com
Kick back, grab a cold one, and catch all the NFL action at ICONA! Watch the football games that kick off at 1pm and 4:25pm while enjoying food and beer specials. Settle in, cheer on your team, and enjoy gameday.
SEPTEMBER 23
Migration at the Shore
6pm, Avalon Community Hall, 3001 Avalon Ave., avalonfreelibrary.org
All age groups are welcome to learn how the change of season brings a wave of animal migration by the coast. From whales to monarch butterflies, the journey of many will be discussed. Co-sponsored by the Avalon Library and the Environmental Commission. A live monarch tagging demonstration is included, as available.
SEPTEMBER 25
Play With Jack Foundation Golf Outing
Noon, Avalon Golf Club, 1510 Rt. 9, Cape May Court House, playwithjackfoundation.com
Hit the golf course for a great cause for the annual Play With Jack Foundation Golf Outing. Established to raise funds and awareness to fight cancer in Jack Cremin’s honor, this year marks 25 years of this beloved tradition. The event begins with registration and lunch at noon, followed by a 1pm shotgun start.
Resin Serving Board Workshop
1-3pm, Avalon Free Public Library, avalonfreelibrary.org
Get creative with this hands-on workshop to make a custom resin board. Design a 10-inch bamboo Lazy Susan using professional-grade resin, pigments, and decorative elements to create a unique piece. Registration is required.
Savor En Blanc
6-9pm, 96th Street, 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, then enjoy the live music provided. Call 609-368-6101 for reservations.
SEPTEMBER 26
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, beer, and fun for the whole family. Enjoy tasting tents, live music, and local breweries and wineries, food vendors, and talented artisans. Tastings run from noon-5pm. Bring the kids so they can play on hay slides, enjoy crafts, and paint clamshells.
African Americans During the Revolutionary Era
1pm, Tennis Building, 250 39th St., avalonfreelibrary.org/ahc
This program explores how the American Revolution impacted people of African descent and their participation in the Revolutionary movement, particularly in New Jersey. Presented by Dr. Lindsey Swindall of Winfield Artists.
OCTOBER 3
Minecraft Pumpkin Patch Hunt
1-2:30pm, Avalon Free Public Library, avalonfreelibrary.org
Get ready for a Minecraft adventure! Search the map and see if you can find all 11 hidden pumpkins scattered around the map. Put your Minecraft skills to the test in this fun scavenger hunt at the Avalon Library.
Music with Friends: A Concert to Benefit Friend In Need
3-8pm, Circle Tavern, 2008 Dune Drive, Avalon, friendinneednj.org
Join Friend In Need for Music with Friends at the Circle Tavern for a great time, live music, and annual 50/50 drawing. Featured artists include Curb Alert, Gordon Vincent, Shortwave, The Collective, and more! A $10 donation at the door supports those in need within our community.
OCTOBER 8-11
Stone Harbor Fall Restaurant Weekend
All weekend, participating businesses, stoneharborchamber.com
Enjoy the flavors of the season with Stone Harbor’s Fall Restaurant Weekend. Participating restaurants will offer special menus and dining experiences, making it the perfect time to gather with friends or family at the Shore and discover something delicious in town.
OCTOBER 10
Stone Harbor Classic & Vintage Car Show
10am-1pm, 96th Street, Stone Harbor, shnj.org
Take a step back in time at Stone Harbor’s Classic & Vintage Car Show! Cruise through town and admire a stunning collection of iconic automobiles, celebrating their timeless style and craftsmanship. Following the show, enjoy a parade of these classic cars through town. For registration and additional information, contact the Borough of Stone Harbor at recdirector@shnj.org.
Avalon Arts & Seafood Festival
10am-5pm, Surfside Park, 2901 Avalon Ave., 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 creators!
OCTOBER 14
Medicare with Confidence
2pm, Avalon Free Public Library, avalonfreelibrary.org
Attend this educational seminar to understand the basics of Medicare, important terminology, enrollment periods, plan types available, cost assistance, and changes coming to Medicare next year.
OCTOBER 15
Tea Time at the History Center
11am-noon, Avalon History Center, 215 39th St., avalonfreelibrary.org/ahc
All are welcome to enjoy a variety of teas and good company at the History Center. Share old Avalon memories and make new memories while learning about the history of Avalon.
OCTOBER 17
Fall Jigsaw Puzzle Swap
11am-noon, Avalon Free Public Library, avalonfreelibrary.org
Drop off any gently used jigsaw puzzles at the library from Oct. 1-16 to receive a ticket. On Oct. 17, head to the library to exchange your ticket for the same number of new-to-you puzzles. Puzzles must be in their original box and include all pieces. Patrons are limited to 10 puzzle drop-offs per person. Bring additional puzzles to exchange on the day of the event.
When the Declaration of Independence Was News
1pm, Tennis Building, 250 39th St., Avalon, avalonfreelibrary.org
Explore how the Declaration of Independence was shared with the public when it was first created and discover the stories of the many people who helped bring it to life, from printers and soldiers to diplomats and translators. Presented by author Emily Sneff, Ph.D., an early American historian and leading expert on the Declaration of Independence.
Cans, Clams, and Jams at Diamond Beach
6-9pm, ICONA Diamond Beach, 9701 Atlantic Ave., Wildwood Crest, icona.com
Celebrate the change of season with an evening of fun the whole family can enjoy. Inside the ICONA Beach Bar Tented Ballroom, attendees will be treated to live music by the Chris Yoder Band, beachside games, and fire pits to get cozy around. Enjoy the clam bake featuring clams, mussels, corn, onions, potatoes, clam chowder, and a kid’s menu, too. Celebrate fall at the beach at this fun event.
OCTOBER 22
Avalon Garden Club’s Games & Card Party
11:30am-3pm, Avalon Community Hall, 3001 Avalon Ave., avalongardenclub.org
Join the Avalon Garden Club for a fall-inspired lunch filled with fun, including “Petals & Pumpkins,” games, cards, and raffles. Tickets are $25. For tickets, please contact Joanna Morrison at 609-675-6846.
OCTOBER 24
Fall Dune Grass Planting
8:30am, Avalon Community Hall, 3001 Avalon Ave., avalonrecreation.org
Join the community in the annual Fall Dune Grass Planting event! Volunteers will meet at the Community Hall at 8:30am for a brief planting demonstration before heading over to the beach. The rain date is Oct. 25.
Fall Beach Sweep
9am-12:30pm, Avalon: 30th St. Boardwalk; Stone Harbor: 95th Street Beach, cleanoceanaction.org
Volunteer to join Clean Ocean Action and both the Boroughs of Avalon and Stone Harbor for the Fall Beach Sweep to help keep our coastal community and beaches clean. Bring gloves and dress appropriately for the weather. Trash bags and trash pickers will be provided.
Stone Harbor Business District Trick-or-Treat
10am-4pm, participating businesses, 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 night of family fun at Avalon’s Trunk-or-Treat. Dress up in your favorite costume and trick-or-treat from BOO-tifully decorated car trunks while enjoying treats, music, and festive fun.
OCTOBER 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 festive marker for 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 spooky fun.
ICONA Annual Halloween Party
9pm, ICONA Windrift, 105 80th St., Avalon, icona.com
Get ready for a spooky night of fun at ICONA Windrift in the Dune Bar space at the annual Halloween party. Dance the night away with the BLT Band and dress to impress (or scare)! Prizes will be given for best group costume, most creative costume, scariest costume, and best overall.