Many American workers look forward to Labor Day (September 5th), when many employers show appreciation for their service by giving them the day off. The Jersey shore, the perfect destination for a day or weekend trip, hosts a wide variety of events over Labor Day Weekend to celebrate the U.S. workforce. Here are some of the most unique Jersey shore Labor Day weekend events.
Scandinavian Fest
On Sunday, September 4th, Vasa Park, at Budd Lake in Northern New Jersey will honor Nordic heritage with food, art, performances, costumes, games, demos, music, and traditions new and old. Perhaps the most entertaining portions of the day, which runs from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., include the wife carrying event and the vikings presentation.
Indo-American Fair
The two-day outdoor Indo-American Fair at Mercer County Park in West Windsor runs from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on September 3rd (Saturday) and 4th (Sunday). While the fair focuses on Indian American heritage, the event is open to everyone regardless of descent or hometown to raise awareness of and celebrate Indian culture. Guests can buy from vendors, eat flavorful Indian cuisine, and watch traditional performances.
Jazz It Up Wine Festival
Allaire State Park in Farmingdale will hold its Jazz It Up Wine Festival the Saturday (September 3rd) and Sunday (September 4th) before Labor Day from noon to 5:00 p.m. As the name implies, the event combines both smooth and upbeat live Jazz music with fine wine tasting from more than 20 wineries. Don’t worry about the kids, though! This event is family friendly, featuring plenty of fun children’s activities. Guests can also buy food from 16 trucks or crafts from vendors. Admission also includes historical building tours and a wine glass to take home!
Delaware Valley Bluegrass Festival
The Delaware Valley Bluegrass Festival takes place over Labor Day weekend on the Salem County Fairgrounds. Danny Paisley and the Southern Grass, Uncle Earl Reunion, Audie Blaylock & Redline, Chris Hillman & Herb Pedersen, Malpass Brothers, and Steep Canyon Rangers play Friday. On Saturday, guests will hear Kruger Bros., Jim Kweskin and Geoff Muldaur, Sister Sadie, Boxcars, Claire Lynch Band, and Rick Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder. To close off the weekend, Chris Henry and Hard Core Bluegrass, Charm City Junction, Mike Compton and Joe Newberry, Kathy Kallick Band, and Seldom Scene will play on Sunday. Get your tickets here!
Airfest
The NASW Aviation Museum at Cape May Airport in Rio Grande will display a variety of aircraft that will excite and amaze enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Admission includes a guided tour of the bombers. The Hangar will host vendors, musicians, exhibitions, and food. Airfest runs from September 2nd to September 5th in its 20th year.
Apple Pancake Breakfast
Alstede Farms in Chester will host its yearly Apple Pancake Breakfast on Sunday, September 4th from 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Admission includes the all-you-can-eat breakfast, a hay wagon ride, pick-you-own apples, live entertainment, and access to the Sunflower Maze, all for an insanely low price! Come hungry and ready for family farm fun!
St. Bartholomew’s Italian Festival
Throughout Labor Day Weekend, St. Bartholomew Church in Scotch Plains partners with UNICO to produce its Italian Festival. Musical performers include Wolf Creek (Classic Acoustic and Electric) on the 2nd, the Metropolitan Festival Band (Spiritual) and Sounds of the Street (Doo Wop) on the 3rd, The Broadcasters (Rock) on the 4th, and The VooDudes (Jazz and Funk) on the 5th. Other events include an Italian mass on the 3rd, a special 50/50 raffle drawing on the 5th. Aside from all this fun, the church will rent rides and games and sell Italian classics such as pasta, calzones, zeppoles, pizza, mussels, and clams. The festival honors San Nicola di Bari.
St. Joseph’s Feast
An annual meal for 102 years, Saint Joseph’s Society will host a feast over Labor Day weekend in Lodi. Guests will enjoy Italian favorites both new and old, rides, games, and performers daily.
With so many Jersey shore Labor Day weekend events, it’s impossible to do them all, so choose carefully, but more importantly, have fun and enjoy your holiday!