Events in Cape May County today

Head to Historic Cold Spring Village for a fun, dog-friendly seafaring celebration with pirates, live music, and family activities. You’ll be able to explore maritime history and Jersey Cape culture through historically dressed interpreters who demonstrate early trades, crafts, and daily life. Dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times, and they are not permitted inside buildings.

Join CMBO naturalists for a relaxing, in-person evening walk around The Nature Conservancy’s South Cape May Meadows property. This 2-hour twilight stroll is a great chance to watch for wading birds, falcons, shorebirds, waterfowl, and, sometimes, even owls. PREREGISTRATION REQUIRED.

This gathering centers on a laid-back day on the sand in Ocean City, with good company, music, and snacks, planned as a full beach day without any workout component. Friends, families with kids, members, and newcomers are all welcome, whether arriving with a group or solo. Arrival and departure are flexible. Typical beach gear is recommended, such as a cooler, chair, towel, and sunscreen. For questions or assistance, Jenny can be reached at 267-796-1046.

Learn to transform sterling silver remnants from past classes into a personalized charm during a workshop led by Hali MacLaren of HKM Jewelry and Lindsay McNamara of Beachy Birder Adventures at the Nature Center of Cape May. In three hours, participants melt silver, choose from a selection of stamp designs, and hammer their chosen motifs into the piece. Instruction covers basic jewelry tools and traditional metalsmithing techniques, all with views of Cape May Harbor. Chains will be available for purchase after class. Tickets are $175, and only three seats remain. Each ticket includes a donation to the Nature Center of Cape May, supporting education and conservation of the native ecosystem.

NJ Boxer Rescue will have a booth at the entrance of the Wildwood Tattoo Beach Bash at the Wildwood Convention Center. Visitors can meet the team and learn more at the booth. The event also features on-site tattooing.

The Kid Laroi is bringing a big day-party performance to HQ2 Beach Club at Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City. It’s a 21+ event, with doors opening at 12:00 PM, so plan to arrive early. Tickets are general admission and standing room only, and entry requires a valid ID matching the ticket name.

Enjoy a relaxed solo acoustic performance by Sal from Out of Spite at Tamerlane Campground. Expect laid-back, easygoing vibes with familiar cover songs, making it a great afternoon option for outdoors live music on Saturday.

Join the post-fishing trip festivities with all-you-can-eat and all-you-can-drink fun. You don’t need to have fished to come enjoy the celebration. Tickets are $50, and the event runs in the afternoon.

Unspoken is bringing their Christian pop and worship music to Cape May County Park & Zoo for a live concert.

Delco's number one band brings a party atmosphere to the Jersey Shore with an energetic show that blends pop, hard rock, and country.

Sensory Night at OC Waterpark is a private evening created for children in the special needs community and their families. The waterpark lowers noise levels, softens lighting, and limits crowds so guests can move through the space at a pace that feels right. The focus is on a calm, inclusive atmosphere where families can make memories and enjoy the attractions together. Ticket information will be available soon.

Settle in at Dogtooth Bar & Grill for live music from Russ Knight. Expect an energetic set filled with familiar songs in a relaxed, laid back setting. Suited for a night out with friends or a casual evening with a drink and familiar tunes.

Totally Tubular Festival brings together a lineup of classic alternative and new wave acts. On the bill are A Flock Of Seagulls, Men Without Hats, Bow Wow Wow, The Producers, Animotion, and The Escape Club. Expect an evening of ’80s hits and high-energy performances at Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena.

Enjoy a tribute concert at Excursion Park under the stars featuring Lori Mitchell-Gay performing the “Queen of Rock” style show as Tina Turner, with an energetic stage presence and powerhouse vocals. The set includes classic Tina Turner favorites like “Proud Mary,” “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” and “Simply the Best.”

A live comedy show featuring Joey Diaz takes the stage at Ovation Hall inside Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City.

Fish Out of Water brings a high-energy mix that spans decades and styles, from Beatles classics to modern pop hits and hard-hitting rock like Tool, with sing-along favorites from Taylor Swift in the mix. For almost twenty years, this band has been lighting up parties and keeping dance floors busy.

Join the Jersey Shore Summer Half, 10K, and 5K for a fast, flat, paved race through the Jersey forest near Sea Isle City, Avalon, and Stone Harbor. The half marathon uses four timed loops, while the 10K and 5K run a 3.1-mile loop (the 10K does it twice, and the 5K does it once). The course is mostly tree-lined and fully supported with water, electrolyte drinks, and gels, plus live chip timing and results, digital tracking, and finish video and photos. Race-day bib pickup is on race day only, starting 45 minutes before your start time.

Join a guided walking food tour through historic downtown Cape May. You’ll visit 5 to 6 local eateries and sample a specialty bite at each stop, with options ranging from savory to sweet. Along the way, your guide shares stories about the city’s food past, present, and future, plus fun facts and photo opportunities. The route and specific locations can change, and you may also find off-menu treats and return-visit discounts at some partners. Plan for about 20 to 30 minutes of total walking time between dining stops, and bring a water bottle since there’s a place to refill during the tour. Comfortable shoes are recommended, and everyone must sign a terms and conditions waiver at the start.

A singer songwriter blends classic rock, country, folk, and pop into an acoustic set, building layered textures through live looping, light percussion, and harmonicas. A smooth, wide ranging voice anchors the performance and creates a full sound.

Catch DJ ADONI for a live set at Domnican Pride. The event runs at the Ocean Casino Resort’s HQ2 Beachclub with music and a 21+ entry policy.

At Slacker Sunday, enjoy music alongside your favorite Slack Tide brews.

Dead Reckoning Duo with Charlie and Colin returns to the Rusty Nail with a set of Grateful Dead classics and rarities, plus a few surprises. Food and drinks are available by the beach, and there is no cover.

Now in its ninth year, the Wildwood Navy Seal Challenge at Wildwood Beach Patrol H.Q.'s features a mix of individual and team competitions centered on swimming, running, and a beach obstacle course shaped by sand and water. Hosted by the Wildwood Beach Patrol in partnership with Even Kiel Racing, this event offers a combined swim and run for teams or solo racers, a run-only option, and a kids race. The swim covers one mile, and the run is a 5K obstacle course with sand hills to climb and sections of water to run through. Proceeds benefit the Wildwood Beach Patrol.

The Billy Walton Band presents a performance rooted in the New Jersey Shore rock and roll scene. Guitarist Billy Walton, long-time lead player with Jersey icon Southside Johnny, brings extensive experience to the stage, having performed alongside Little Steven, Gary U.S. Bonds, and Steven Tyler.

Experience live violin at Poppi's Brick Oven Pizza & Kitchen in Wildwood, NJ with Petya String Heart. The performance pairs contemporary favorites with classic melodies, creating an elegant backdrop for a relaxed night out or a special evening with friends and family.

Enjoy an evening of original instrumental jazz and blues performed by the Geno White Duo. Geno White will be on archtop guitar, with Terry Dougherty on upright bass. The show runs from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

Brass Transit gathers a lineup of decorated musicians to celebrate Chicago’s decades-spanning, multi-platinum catalog with a concert devoted to the band’s biggest hits. Active since 2008 and touring across North America, the group is known for note-perfect performances and meticulous attention to detail. The set features favorites like “Saturday in the Park,” “25 or 6 to 4,” “If You Leave Me Now,” “Feelin’ Stronger Every Day,” and “You’re the Inspiration.” Tickets are $37 and $42.

Test your putting skills at the O-Street Mini Golf Open at Tee Time Golf OC Boardwalk. The competition features two rounds, and the registration fee is $50 for both. All players must subscribe to the O-Street Mini Golf YouTube page at no cost and present proof at check-in. Participation is limited to 75 players, and same-day registration is not available. Cash awards are set at $500 for first place, $325 for second, $250 for third, $175 for fourth, $150 for fifth, and $100 each for sixth through tenth, or ties split $500. An additional $100 goes to the women’s division winner; if that winner also places tenth or higher, the cash prize moves to the next best female competitor while the trophy still honors the best women’s score. Medals will recognize the top three overall, with trophies for the women’s division and the youth division for ages 14 and under.

Enjoy an outdoor Pilates class with Shore Fitness at Byrne Plaza. This session is part of the Downtown Wildwood Fitness in the Plaza summer schedule. All fitness levels are welcome, and the cost is $10 per class.

At the Wildwoods Convention Center, shoppers can browse a wide selection of apparel and accessories with discounts up to 80 percent, covering tees, hoodies, jeans, shorts, swimwear, footwear, pants, sweaters, dresses, skirts, outerwear and more. Entry is free. Major credit cards are welcome, and all purchases are final.

Celebrate biodiversity with a week of hands-on nature adventures at the nature center. Kids will explore the plants and animals around the grounds during a camp-wide bioblitz, learning how to be eco-superheroes for the planet. Activities run each weekday morning from Monday through Friday.

Girls and boys in grades 3 through 8 can elevate their game at a basketball camp in Cape May, New Jersey that combines focused skill development with plenty of live, game-speed play. Multiple summer sessions are planned in Cape May, and past editions have sold out.

https://www.caperesorts.com/beach-shack/rusty-nail

A heartfelt Celebration of Life at Cape May VFW brings together lifeguards, alumni, alumnae, and friends of the Cape May Beach Patrol to share memories, laugh together, and honor those whose legacy endures through the stories told. The gathering pays tribute to friends including Dave Velli, Will Mendo, Mike Reicherter, Norm Inferrera, Captain Buzzy Mogck, and, since the previous celebration, Norm Smith, Tom Maher, John White, Stanley Holmes, Bill Garrison, and Tyler Jaggers. The event welcomes the Alumni and Alumnae Association as well as current CMBP members to reconnect and build new bonds. Admission is $50 per person and includes roast beef and meatball sandwiches, tortellini alfredo, and salad, with domestic beer, soda, and water provided. A cash bar will be available for other beverages. Live music will be performed by the What He Say band from Cape May. The first 100 people to register receive a commemorative T-shirt. All proceeds support the Clete Cannone Scholarship Fund. Social Permit 157551.

Weekly trivia features rotating topics and prizes for all winners. Arrive early for happy hour, then stick around for late night entertainment with a weekly performance by Cat 5. The evening blends friendly competition with live music.

Family drama sets the stage when two sisters struggle to set aside a serious dispute for an Independence Day celebration, only to have the conflict spiral out of control. When someone goes too far, the question becomes who is responsible and whether justice will win out. This interactive whodunit, in the spirit of a classic mystery board game, places every character under suspicion as the story moves from room to room inside the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate. Watch the scenes unfold, listen closely for clues, and piece together the truth. Accessibility accommodations are available with advance notice.

An in-person dramatic reading of Appendage, written by Derek Murphy and directed by Roy Steinberg, takes place at the Robert Shackleton Playhouse. This intimate two-person piece unfolds in a small New York apartment where two men, both grieving the same woman, navigate sorrow, awkward attempts to connect, and growing tension that mixes dark humor with emotional confrontation. By turns unsettling and wry, the story considers how loss can shape identity and the imperfect ways people try to move on. Admission is free, tickets are not required, and donations are welcomed.

Southern rock takes center stage at Ocean City Music Pier when The Outlaws perform with special guest Duane Betts & Palmetto Motel. All ages are admitted. Presented by the City of Ocean City and produced by BRE Presents and Rose Productions. For more than four decades, The Outlaws have carried the sound of their genre with stacked guitars and tight vocal harmonies. Formed in Tampa in 1972, the band’s early run delivered albums like The Outlaws, Lady In Waiting, and Hurry Sundown, introducing staples such as There Goes Another Love Song, Green Grass & High Tides, Knoxville Girl, and Freeborn Man. Nicknamed the Florida Guitar Army, they earned their reputation on the road alongside groups including the Allman Brothers, Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Marshall Tucker Band, The Charlie Daniels Band, the Doobie Brothers, The Who, Eagles, and the Rolling Stones. Guided by founding singer and guitarist Henry Paul since 2008, the lineup features Dave Robbins, Randy Threet, Jimmy Dormire, Michael Grando, and Jeff Aulich, and today’s shows balance classics with newer songs from It’s About Pride and Dixie Highway, a blend documented on the concert set Legacy Live. Duane Betts & Palmetto Motel add a set shaped by Betts’ journey through Backbone69, Whitestarr, years alongside his father in Dickey Betts & Great Southern, global touring with Dawes, and co-founding The Allman Betts Band. His debut album Wild & Precious Life was recorded live to analog tape at Swamp Raga Studio with Johnny Stachela, Berry Duane Oakley, John Ginty, and Tyler Greenwell, and includes appearances by Marcus King on Cold Dark World, Nicki Bluhm on Colors Fade, and Derek Trucks on Stare at the Sun, along with the instrumental Under the Bali Moon. The music draws on blues, rock, folk, and country, pairing expressive guitar work with songs rooted in reflection and a renewed outlook.

Free live music returns to Rotary Park, with local artists performing on the bandstand as part of a summer series. Bring friends and family, pack a chair or blanket, and settle in for music on summer nights in a welcoming park atmosphere.

Bootcamp with Shore Fitness is an outdoor class at Byrne Plaza presented as part of the Fitness in the Plaza series. Participants of any fitness level are welcome, and the fee is $10 per class.

Shop local at the Farmers Market with fresh produce, sweet treats, crafts, and more. It’s a great chance to browse seasonal goodies and meet local makers.

Rob McMahon returns for another summer at Urie's Waterfront Restaurant with a recurring weekly performance, continuing a tradition of seasonal appearances at the venue.

Todd Rundgren brings the Damned If I Do Tour to Ocean City Music Pier. The event welcomes attendees of all ages and is presented by the City of Ocean City, with production by BRE Presents and Rose Productions. A pioneering guitarist and songwriter from Philadelphia, Rundgren first came to prominence with The Nazz, then launched a solo path that soared with the self-crafted album Something/Anything?, followed by acclaimed releases like The Hermit of Mink Hollow and A Wizard, A True Star. His songbook spans favorites such as I Saw The Light, Hello It’s Me, Can We Still Be Friends, and Bang The Drum. He later formed Todd Rundgren’s Utopia, which evolved into Utopia, blending technical precision and creative flair across albums including Oops! Wrong Planet, Adventures in Utopia, and Oblivion. Beyond his own recordings, he has produced influential projects for artists like Patti Smith, Cheap Trick, The Psychedelic Furs, Meat Loaf, XTC, Grand Funk Railroad, and Hall and Oates. His work extends to stage and screen, with original music for Joe Papp’s production of Joe Orton’s Up Against It, the film Dumb and Dumber, and television series such as Pee Wee’s Playhouse and Crime Story. Rundgren has revisited landmark albums in concert, performed with Ringo Starr’s All-Starr Band, collaborated with symphony orchestras, reunited with longtime Utopia bandmates, and paired live performance with readings from his autobiography The Individualist. Honors include honorary doctorates from Berklee College of Music and DePauw University, and early leadership in direct-to-fan music distribution through his PatroNet platform.

A free, family-focused magic performance featuring Rich Lessig takes place at Cape May Convention Hall in Cape May. The show offers playful surprises, plenty of laughter, and a variety of memorable tricks.

Catch Dumpstaphunk live for an evening of acid jazz, blues rock, jazz funk, and funk rock at Nauti Spirits Distillery. The show is scheduled to start at 7:00 PM.

Enjoy a free screening of The Garfield Movie at Byrne Plaza in Downtown Wildwood, presented as part of a summer series of family-friendly films. Bring beach chairs and blankets for comfortable seating and watch under the stars. Arrive early to explore nearby shops and restaurants, have dinner, or pick up takeout for a picnic in the plaza, and consider finishing with ice cream for dessert.

Kalamazoo is a romantic comedy by Michelle Kholos Brooks and Kelly Younger, directed by Josh Iacovelli. When cautious later-in-life singles Peg and Irving strike up a conversation, their rapport quickly takes off with brisk humor, surprising truths, and a shared affection for birds. As they feel their way through the delicate terrain of beginning anew, they learn that connection and hope can appear when least expected, at any age. Praised by critics for its tenderness and smarts, this uplifting story balances razor-sharp wit with heartfelt moments to celebrate fresh starts and the courage to open your heart.

This summer marks the return of karaoke, with audience voting and prizes for the top vote getters. Perform your favorite songs while Kelli Glover hosts.

Enjoy an outdoor Pilates class with Shore Fitness at Byrne Plaza. Presented as part of Downtown Wildwood Fitness in the Plaza, this session welcomes all fitness levels. The cost is $10 per class.

Bring the whole family to the Cape May Lighthouse for the Family Fun Crafts Show. You can browse handmade goods from local vendors, check out kid-focused craft stations, and join in outdoor games. Admission to the grounds is free, and there are tickets available on-site if you want to climb the lighthouse’s 199 steps for the view from the top.

Enjoy a guided downtown Cape May walking food tour where you’ll sample local favorites at iconic eateries. Along the way, your knowledgeable guide shares stories about the area’s food past, present, and future, with photo moments and fun facts sprinkled throughout. You’ll visit about five to six stops, with specialty bites at each location, and the tour route may include spots like Ocean 7 at The Inn of Cape May, Wild Roots Provisions, Coffee Tyme, The Cheese Shop, Cape May Peanut Butter Company, and The Original Fudge Kitchen (depending on availability). The total walking time is about 20 to 30 minutes spread across dining stops. Wear comfortable shoes and be ready for changing weather. Please bring a water bottle, and note that you’ll sign a required Terms & Conditions waiver at the start of the tour.

Enjoy a request-driven dueling pianos performance from The Philly Keys filled with fun and good vibes. The show features sing alongs, crowd participation, and great musicianship. A compact lineup creates a big sound by combining dueling pianos and live guitars with professionally engineered, customized tracks. This interactive concept, known for energizing weddings, corporate events, and private parties, invites the crowd to help shape the music throughout the show.

Surfside Summer Tastings brings summer vibes to MudHen with a refreshing series featuring Surfside samples, fun giveaways, branded items, and plenty of laid-back shore energy. The experience highlights crisp, beachy sips and a relaxed atmosphere, making Surfside part of the season at MudHen.

Wednesday Dance Nights bring a rotating lineup of themed evenings to Cape May Convention Hall throughout the summer. The series features country line dancing, a kids dance party, Latin night, popular line dances, and ballroom dancing. Each week highlights a different style, giving attendees a chance to learn fresh steps or enjoy familiar favorites on the dance floor.

Join the Cape May Bird Observatory for a raptor identification program focused on fall migration. Whether you’re new to birding or trying to tell apart similar hawks, the program coordinator will share practical tips for spotting and identifying these birds of prey.

The CMMTC Ladies Billfish Invitational is a ladies billfish tournament hosted by CMMTC. Participants select one fishing day as captain's choice, with a captain's meeting to be announced and an awards presentation planned at the conclusion. Registration is available through the CMMTC app, and additional details will be shared.

Head to Excursion Park for Movies Under the Stars, featuring How To Train Your Dragon (2025). It is set on the rugged isle of Berk, where a Viking boy named Hiccup forms a bond with a dragon and must help face an ancient threat. The movie starts at dusk, so bring your beach chairs or blankets and settle in for an outdoor screening.

Country Karaoke is back for the summer. Wear a cowboy hat and sing your favorite country classics. Hosted by Kelli Glover.

Pure Petty performs at MudHen Brewing Company with a tribute to the music of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, along with the music of Stevie Nicks. The set highlights well-known songs from both artists.

Get moving with an outdoor bootcamp led by Shore Fitness at Byrne Plaza. Part of Downtown Wildwood’s Fitness in the Plaza series, this workout welcomes every fitness level. The cost is $10 per class.

Cape May’s original walking food tour is a guided experience through the historic streets, with stops at iconic local eateries. Along the way, you’ll hear stories about the city’s food past, present, and future, and sample specialty items at each location. Some partner stops may include off-menu treats and guest-only discounts, plus fun photo opportunities during the tour.

Enjoy live entertainment by the water.

Thirsty Thursdays at Dogtooth Bar & Grill offers a weekly summer lineup of tastings, prize giveaways, and raffles for baskets, with rotating brands keeping the energy high. Each edition highlights a different brand with tasting samples and branded swag, along with opportunities to win additional prizes. Admission is free, creating an easy way to explore new flavors throughout the season.

Family Night at Carney’s pairs dinner with character appearances. This evening centers on a Frozen themed visit from Elsa and Anna. Each week brings a new theme, including a patriotic twist with Mickey and Minnie, a superhero pairing of Captain America and Spiderman, a princess themed evening with Cinderella and Belle, the Minions, Mickey with Tinkerbelle, Ariel with Moana, a Toy Story theme with Woody and Buzz, and a princess gathering with Cinderella, the Fairy Godmother, and Snow White.

Catch Chris Janson for an evening show at Ocean City Music Pier. Expect an upbeat mix of country rock and acoustic country sounds, with the performance starting at 7:00 PM.

Part of Music in the Plaza at Byrne Plaza, Winslow presents an evening dedicated to the Eagles. This ensemble aims to recreate the spirit and sound of an Eagles concert with multiple lead vocalists, tight five-part harmonies, polished instrumentation, and engaging stage presence. The set spans fan favorites and deeper cuts, along with select solo material by Don Henley and Joe Walsh. Highlights often include the shimmering a cappella blend of Seven Bridges Road and the intertwined guitar leads of Hotel California. This is a free concert. Attendees typically bring dancing shoes along with a blanket or beach chair, enjoy dinner from nearby Downtown Wildwood eateries or picnic in the plaza, and finish the night with ice cream. Free parking is available for Byrne Plaza events. The series is supported by the Downtown Wildwood business community.