Events at a Glance
Art & Authors on Dune
By Katie Matthews
May 2-23
Avalon Historical Society’s Photo Contest Entry Period
Avalon History Center, avalonfreelibrary.org
The Avalon Historical Society’s Photo Contest entry period runs through May 23. Entries must be matted or mounted and received by then. Contestants can access the submission guidelines and entry form at avalonfreelibrary.org. Judging will be held in late May and the exhibition kicks off on Monday, June 1. This contest is open to adults, teens, and children, so give it your best shot!
May 19
Medicare with Confidence, 2-3pm
Avalon Free Public Library, avalonfreelibrary.org
Join this educational seminar about Medicare basics, important terminology, enrollment periods, plan types available, cost assistance, and changes to Medicare for 2026. Attending this educational seminar will allow you to understand “Medicare with Confidence.” This is being presented by Steven Bornfreund of SMS Insurance Agency.
May 20
Sound Bowl Meditation, 4:30-5:30pm
Avalon Free Public Library, avalonfreelibrary.org
Let stress and anxiety melt away with this guided meditation that uses singing crystal bowls. This unique experience can soothe you with healing sound vibrations. This guided meditation is being presented by Chrissy Ennis of Radiant Pixies Healing & Wellness.
May 21
Tea Time at the History Center, 11am-noon
Avalon History Center, avalonfreelibrary.org
All are welcome to enjoy a variety of teas and good company at the History Center. Learn about Avalon while sharing old Avalon memories and make new memories, too!
May 22
Summer Reading Challenge Begins: Unearth a Story
Avalon Free Public Library, avalonfreelibrary.org
Avalon Library’s Summer Reading Challenge kicks off May 22 and runs through Aug. 7. All ages are welcome to earn points by reading anything: books, e-books, newspapers, comics, and even audiobooks. Prizes will be given throughout the summer and participants have a chance of winning one of the library’s grand prizes!
May 22-June 30
Tiny Art Show Display
Avalon Free Public Library, avalonfreelibrary.org
Stop by the Avalon Free Library from May 22 through June 30 to check out the art displays that were submitted during the 2026 Tiny Art Show!
May 23
Beach Opening Ceremony & Color Fun Run, 9-11am
96th Street Beach, stoneharbornj.org
Get ready for a colorful beach morning with fun for the whole family! Kick off the summer season at Stone Harbor’s free Memorial Day Weekend Beach Opening Ceremony and Color Fun Run. Registration starts at 8am and the Fun Run begins at 9am.
May 24
Turtle Trot 5K Run/2-Mile Fun Walk, 8am
96th Street & First Avenue, stoneharborchamber.com
The Stone Harbor Chamber of Commerce invites you to “come out of your shell” and take part in the annual Stone Harbor Turtle Trot 5K Run and Two-Mile Fun Walk! This Turtle Trot has become a Memorial Day weekend tradition for many, so get your friends, family, and fellow outdoor enthusiasts to join this fun event. A portion of the proceeds from the race will benefit the Terrapin Conservation Program at The Wetlands Institute.
Strawberry Festival, 6-8pm
St. Mary’s Parish Hall, 95th & Third Avenue, stmarysstoneharbor.org
Don’t miss the sweetest event this season! St. Mary’s Church is hosting its annual festival with sweet Jersey strawberry desserts and Springer’s ice cream. All are welcome to delight in this fun, family event.
May 27
Tech Topic: Getting to Know AI, 2-3pm
Avalon Free Public Library, avalonfreelibrary.org
Learn about artificial intelligence at this tech topic class, presented by Sean Farrell. The discussion will explore how AI works and demonstrate several popular AI applications.
The Music of Frank Sinatra in 1966, 4:30-5:30pm
Avalon Free Public Library, avalonfreelibrary.org
Listen to the sounds of Sinatra circa 1966 at a concert performance by pianist and vocalist Jay Daniels. It will feature iconic selections from Frank Sinatra’s albums “That’s Life” and “Strangers in the Night,” including hits like “Summer Wind,” “All or Nothing at All,” and “That’s Life.”
May 30
Art and Authors on Dune, 9am-3pm
Dune Drive, visitavalonnj.com
Explore stunning fine art and connect with talented authors along Dune Drive, sponsored by the Avalon Chamber of Commerce and Avalon Free Public Library. Artists will showcase their work across various mediums, including watercolor, oil/acrylic, photography, and mixed media/sculpture. Authors will be signing and selling copies of their books. This celebration of creativity promises to spark your imagination!
Helen L. Diller Vacation Home for Blind Children Community Open House, 11am-2pm
127 26th Street, dillerblindhome.org
Join the Helen L. Diller Vacation Home for Blind Children for its Community Open House! As a thank you to the community for their continued support for more than 50 years, the event includes a hot dog cookout, tours of the Diller Home, face painting, and balloons.
June 1-30
Avalon Historical Society’s Photo Contest Exhibit
Avalon History Center, avalonfreelibrary.org
Come see the best snapshots from those who entered the Historical Society’s photo contest! Starting June 1, all are welcome to view this year’s Historical Society Photo Contest entries and winners at the History Center. Photos will be displayed through June 30.
Community Scavenger Hunt
Avalon Free Public Library, avalonfreelibrary.org
Pick up the Spring into Summer Community Scavenger Hunt list at the library! Visit all the listed local businesses during open hours to get your scavenger hunt stamped and drop off your completed forms to the library by June 30 to be entered to win prizes. Show your library card at select locations to receive incentives or discounts.
June 4
Needlepoint Key Fob, 1-3pm
Avalon Free Public Library, avalonfreelibrary.org
Ready to try a new hands-on hobby? Join Bryn Hartzell of B. Hartzell for a beginner-friendly class where you can learn the basics of needlepoint while stitching a small anchor key fob, finished in a leather case. All supplies and instruction are included. Registration is required.
June 6
Avalon Garden Club Flower Show, 10am-3pm
Avalon Community Hall, avalongardenclub.org
Delight in the 42nd annual Avalon Garden Club Flower Show, “Designed By Nature,” where attendees can judge the exhibits as “people’s choice” from 10am-1pm. Members of the public, including children, each will be presented with 20 pennies to be used for voting. An award ceremony will take place at 2pm for Artistic Design and Horticulture Awards announced by Mayor John McCorristin. Be sure to get raffle tickets to win one of the hanging plants and patio pots. All proceeds benefit the club’s beautification projects. Admission is free.
Avalon Historical Society Historic Marker Unveiling: Wells Memorial Presbyterian Church, Noon
Wells Memorial Presbyterian Church, avalonhistoricalsociety.org
Join the Seven Mile Beach community as the Avalon Historical Society unveils the first of two new historic markers this year. In coordination with Avalon’s Spring into Summer, the unveiling of Wells Memorial Presbyterian Church marker will take place at 126 9th St.
June 7-14
Stone Harbor Restaurant Week
During normal business hours, participating restaurants
stoneharborchamber.com
Indulge in the cuisine scene of Stone Harbor with Stone Harbor Chamber of Commerce’s second annual restaurant week that will run Sunday, June 7 through Saturday, June 13. Visit stoneharborchamber.com for more information and a list of participating businesses.
June 11
Privateering in New Jersey During the American Revolution, 1pm
Tennis Building, avalonfreelibrary.org
Learn about the history of privateering in New Jersey, especially during the American Revolution. This talk is presented by Robert Cobb, who was born and raised in Avalon and recently published “Privateers & Pine-Robbers” that deals with characters in coastal New Jersey during the American Revolution. His book takes stories rooted in part on New Jersey folklore and puts them within a historical narrative based on facts.
June 12-14
Meet the Artist Reception
Friday, 7-9pm; Saturday, 7-9pm; Sunday: Noon-2pm
Ocean Galleries, 9618 Third Avenue, Stone Harbor, oceangalleries.com
Meet world-famous actress, artist, and author Jane Seymour as she debuts her exclusive collection of new original paintings at Ocean Galleries in Stone Harbor. RSVP is preferred by going to oceangalleries.com or calling 609-368-7777. Walk-ins are welcome. Jane Seymour’s exhibit will be showcased during gallery hours (10am-9pm) all weekend.
June 13
AHLOA’s Community Open House, 8:30-10:30am
Avalon Community Hall, AHLOA.com
Meet your neighbors, connect with Borough leaders, and enjoy some coffee and light refreshments at the AHLOA Community Open House. Bring your kids or grandkids so they can have fun at the Kids Korner, featuring games, activities, and giveaways, sponsored by AHLOA, the library, the police department and the fire department. Learn about what is going on in town while having a great time!
History Center Presents Rescuing the Last Diving Horse, 2pm
Avalon Tennis Building, avalonfreelibrary.org
Starting in the late 1800s and lasting until 1978, a spectacle began where horses and their riders would “dive” at the far end of Atlantic City’s Steel Pier into a pool, when the site was known as “The Showplace of the Nation.” Learn about the people and animals involved, and the act’s vibrant history. This discussion will be presented by Cynthia Branigan, who rescued and cared for the last diving horse.
Surfside Concert: The Rock N’ Roll Collective, 6pm
Surfside Park, avalonfreelibrary.org
Grab your beach chairs, blankets, family, and friends for live music at Surfside Park. Unwind and enjoy the sounds of the powerhouse group of exceptionally talented musicians between the ages of 13 and 18. In the event of inclement weather, the concert will be moved inside Community Hall.
June 14
American Legion Post 331 Flag Day and Installation of Officers, 10am
117th Street & Second Avenue, stephencludlampost331.org
All are welcome to join the members of American Legion Post 331 to celebrate Flag Day. There will be installation of new officers ceremony and an open house. This patriotic, family-friendly event is a must do.
June 15
Annual Avalon Lions Golf Classic, 10am
Union League National Golf Club, avalonlionsgolfnj.rsvpify.com
Join the Avalon Lions Club at their 17th annual golf classic! Get ready for a wonderful day of golf and camaraderie. Participation includes a four-person scramble, breakfast, lunch, an open bar, snacks and beverages on the course, golfer gifts, awards, and prizes. Day of registration begins at 8am at the golf course, or register prior at avalonlionsgolfnj.rsvpify.com.
June 18
Avalon History Center Open House, 11am-2pm
Avalon History Center, avalonfreelibrary.org
All are welcome to join the History Center to see exhibits, meet new friends, and enjoy light, locally made refreshments! Attendees can also discover the History Center’s initiatives and participate in ongoing video and oral history programs.
An Evening with Author Sara Goodman Confino, 7pm
Surfside Park, avalonfreelibrary.org
Bring your blankets and beach chairs to Surfside Park as the Avalon Library hosts bestselling author Sara Goodman Confino. She is the author of the novel set in Avalon, “Don’t Forget to Write.” She will discuss her new book, “Off the Record,” followed by a book signing. In the event of inclement weather, the event will move inside Community Hall.
June 19-21
Stephanie Albertson at Trendz
209 96th St., Stone Harbor, trendzstoneharbor.com
Meet Stephanie Albertson and experience her handcrafted fine jewelry. Each piece is formed from 22K gold and gemstones like opals and diamonds. Albertson strives for wearable, fun jewelry that adds color to your day.
June 19
Avalon Historical Society Olde House Tour, 1-4pm
Avalon History Center, avalonfreelibrary.org
Savor the beauty and charm of some of Avalon’s old homes during this self-guided tour. Tickets can be purchased up to and including the day of the event. Tickets can be purchased online through the event page link at avalonfreelibrary.org/events starting June 6, or at the History Center on June 19 starting at 10am. Call 609-967-0090 for more information.
Surfside Concert: Peter Mayer Group, 7pm
Surfside Park, avalonfreelibrary.org
Bring your blankets and beach chairs to Surfside Park as the concert series continues with the Peter Mayer Group! Relax and enjoy the sounds of live music led by the longtime guitarist of Jimmy Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band. The concert will move to Community Hall in the event of inclement weather.
June 20
Avalon Lions Club Pancake Breakfast, 8-11am
Avalon Community Hall, avalonlions.com
Start Father’s Day weekend with delicious food and good company at the Avalon Lions Club Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser! It’s the perfect way to spend a morning with the family.
Avalon Historical Society Historic Marker Unveiling: United States Lifesaving Station, Noon
United States Lifesaving Station, avalonhistoricalsociety.org
Join the Seven Mile Beach community as the Avalon Historical Society unveils the second of two new historic markers in the community this year. In coordination with Avalon’s Spring into Summer, the unveiling ceremony of the United States Lifesaving Station will take place at 76 West 15th St.
Summer Solstice Festival, 5-8:30pm
Surfside Park, visitavalonnj.com
Celebrate the start of the season at Avalon’s Summer Solstice Festival at Surfside Park. This event promises fun for all ages with food vendors, beer and wine sales, balloon artists, face painters, a fairy tinsel hair booth, and live music by Jimmy and the Parrots, sponsored by the Avalon Free Public Library. Soak in some fun for all ages on the longest day of the year.
Jimmy and the Parrots, 6:30-8:30pm
Surfside Park, avalonfreelibrary.org
Enjoy Jimmy Buffett music performed by Jimmy and the Parrots at the Summer Solstice Festival. In the event of inclement weather, the concert will move to Community Hall.
June 21
SHPOA’S Harbor Hustle 5K Run/1M Walk/Run, 8am
96th Street & First Avenue, shellsofhopenj.org
Kick off the official start of summer with the Stone Harbor Property Owners Association’s Harbor Hustle 5K & 1M Run/Walk. Participants can opt for a 5K run, or a 1 Mile run or walk. Proceeds from the event benefit Shells of Hope, a nonprofit organization that supports pediatric brain cancer research and South Jersey kids battling cancer.
Flyers Legend Joe Watson, 4pm
Surfside Park, avalonfreelibrary.org
Don’t miss this special appearance by legendary Broad Street Bullies defenseman Joe Watson. Author of the hit memoir “Thundermouth,” Joe brings the golden age of hockey to life with stories of the Bullies, Stanley Cup championships, and his legendary career. Listen to the stories behind the book, get your copy signed, and meet this sports icon. In the event of inclement weather, the event will move to Community Hall.
June 23
Sound Bowl Meditation, 6:30-7:30pm
Avalon Free Public Library, avalonfreelibrary.org
Let stress and anxiety melt away with this guided meditation that uses singing crystal bowls. This unique experience can soothe you with healing sound vibrations. This guided meditation is being presented by Chrissy Ennis of Radiant Pixies Healing & Wellness.
June 24
Comeback Story for the Ages – The Osprey in New Jersey, 6pm
Avalon Community Hall, avalonfreelibrary.org
Not long ago, ospreys were considered an endangered species. Today they are thriving and their population is stable. This presentation will share the story of the demise and comeback of the osprey and challenges they face today, co-sponsored by Environmental Commission.
June 26-July 6
Jade Trau at Trendz
209 96th St., Stone Harbor, trendzstoneharbor.com
Meet Jade Trau, a New York native and jewelry designer, during her pop-up event. Trau curates beautiful jewelry, meant to be layered with each other, so make sure to try on multiple pieces to create the full look.
June 27
Islandman Triathlon, 7:20am
Avalon Community Hall, timkerrcharities.org
The Islandman Triathlon consists of a quarter-mile ocean swim, a 12-mile bike ride, and a 5K beach run. This triathlon is a fun, quality experience that draws both elite triathletes from the Mid-Atlantic region, and newcomers alike. Great for both spectators and competitors – this event is a “must do” event each summer. Proceeds benefit the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
Stone Harbor Fire Department Hoagie Sale, 8am
Stone Harbor Firehouse, stoneharbornj.org
Don’t miss the Stone Harbor Volunteer Fire Company’s annual Hoagie Sale at the firehouse! Come early, because they go fast! The hoagie sale starts at 8am and they’re first come, first served until they’re sold out.
Islandkids Triathlon, 9am
Avalon Community Hall, timkerrcharities.org
Celebrating 20 years as the largest youth triathlon in the Mid-Atlantic Region, Islandkids Triathlon offers a safe course where fun and fitness are the focus. This triathlon is followed by a post-race celebration inside the Avalon Community Hall at 10:30am. The race starts at approximately 9am and consists of a 100-meter ocean swim, a 5K bike ride, and 1K beach run. Proceeds will benefit the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
Small Houses, Big History: Stone Harbor Walking House Tour, Noon-4pm
Stone Harbor Museum, stoneharbormuseum.org
Take a walk for the first time through Stone Harbor’s history with a tour of eight selected homes on Bower, Weber, and Stone Courts. Stroll through the charming neighborhood as you learn about the history of these unique homes. Tickets cost $40 per person.