The Flags of Liberty ceremony is a moving way for loved ones to honor their fallen heroes. (Courtesy of the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority)
The Wildwoods will host a slate of patriotic and family-friendly Memorial Day weekend events to kick off the summer tourism season at the Jersey Shore.
Friday, May 23 – Flags of Liberty Ceremony
More than 125 families and hundreds of supporters will gather at the Wildwoods Convention Center turn-around to honor their deceased veteran heroes by unfurling their loved ones' casket flags at the annual Flags of Liberty event on Friday, May 23 at 10 a.m. Participants will line the Boardwalk, where the casket flags will be displayed in a moving ceremony to remember their loved ones. The event will feature the unfurling of over 125 American flags. For more information about the ceremony visit WildwoodsNJ.com/FOL or email [email protected].
Friday, May 23 – Unlocking of the Ocean Ceremony
The Wildwoods’ Unlocking of the Ocean ceremony marks the official opening of the 2025 summer season. This year, the ceremony will feature a photo opportunity in which three ceremonial keys will be presented to the mayors of the Wildwoods and their respective beach patrol captains. They will then use their key to “unlock” their beaches during their own local ceremonies, ushering in the summer season.
Friday, May 23-Monday, May 26 – Wildwoods International Kite Festival
The kite festival will be held on the beach at Rio Grande Avenue in Wildwood and inside the Wildwoods Convention Center. The event begins on Friday at noon outside of the Wildwoods Convention Center. Festivities will include the opening of the Kite Sales Tent, Friday Night Social via the local kite club and the 9 p.m. Illuminated Night Kite Fly. Saturday includes the Silent and Loud Auctions (open to all) and Saturday and Sunday will feature the flying of large inflatable kites, team flying, as well as family games. Monday features the World Indoor Kite Exhibition inside the Wildwoods Convention Center. Free to spectators. For more information visit SkyFestivals.com.
Kites of all types will fill the sky during the International Kite Festival. (Courtesy of the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development AuthorityAdditional Memorial Day Events:
Saturday, May 24 and Sunday, May 25- Memorial Day Weekend Boardwalk Craft Show
Stroll along the southern end of the Wildwoods Boardwalk and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the crafts shows. The events will showcase an array of talented artisans and crafters, offering everything from handcrafted jewelry and home decor to unique artwork and beach-inspired treasures. Explore the many booths lining the Boardwalk and find one-of-a-kind gifts, delicious homemade treats, and more. Whether you’re looking for the ideal souvenir or simply soaking in the sights and sounds, the Boardwalk Crafts Shows provide a delightful shopping experience. Hours are Saturday from 9 a.m.to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free to the public. Rain or shine. For more information call 609-522-0198, email [email protected] or visit BoardwalkCrafts.com.
Saturday, May 24 – Downtown Wildwood Farmers Market Season Kick-Off
The Downtown Wildwood Farmers Market is a popular place to be on Saturday mornings from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. The Farmers Market is held from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at 3400 Pacific Avenue, in Byrne Plaza, and across the street at 3501 Pacific Avenue. With over 70 vendors set up each week, visitors can always find something new. Shop for fresh produce, like Jersey tomatoes and corn, or have freshly baked items to eat while you stroll the market and take some home for dessert. Visitors love to browse the vendors selling fresh guacamole, homemade pickles, local honey, breakfast sandwiches, hot and cold coffee and drinks, jerky, granola, hot sauce, as well as a great assortment of craft beers, spirits, and wine. In addition to the farmers’ stands, the market features more than 30 crafters selling handmade items including soaps, candles, jewelry, home goods, clothing and more. For more information visit DOOWW.COM.
Monday, May 26 – North Wildwood Memorial Day Ceremony
A Memorial Day ceremony hosted by the VFW Post 5941 will be held on May 26 at Veterans Memorial Park, Spruce and New York Avenues in North Wildwood. The ceremony begins at 1 p.m. For more information, visit NorthWildwood.com or call 609-729-5832.
Monday, May 26- Wildwood Memorial Day Ceremony
Wildwood’s annual Memorial Day ceremony will take place May 26 on the front lawn of American Legion Post 184 to honor the nation’s fallen heroes. The ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. For more information, call 609-522-3613 or visit Legion184.org.
The Farmers Market in Wildwood features more than 70 vendors on Saturday mornings from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. (Courtesy of the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority)
