Columbus Day Weekend in the Wildwoods
It’s Columbus Day weekend, and while it looks like we could be dealing with some of the leftover effects of the hurricane down in Florida, that doesn’t mean the fun in the Wildwoods has to stop!
In fact, this is one of those weekends that we always consider the unofficial hard stop of the shoulder season.
After this weekend, Morey’s Piers will close for the season, and many of your favorite restaurants, arcades, and stores along the Wildwoods Boardwalk will begin closing their doors until next spring.
Columbus Day Weekend in the Wildwoods
So, if you’ve been looking for one more excuse to head down to the Wildwoods, this is it!
And why not go out with one giant hurrah?
There are actually quite a few awesome events happening throughout the island this weekend, from Oktoberfest celebrations and a massive beach bonfire to a brand-new festival celebrating Wildwood’s history.
Plus, the fun doesn’t completely end after Columbus Day weekend. We still have some great fall events coming up, including a pumpkin derby and a scarecrow contest next weekend.
But before we get ahead of ourselves, let’s take a look at everything happening in the Wildwoods this Columbus Day weekend!
Morey’s Piers Oktoberfest – Final Weekend
If you haven’t made it out to Morey’s Piers Oktoberfest yet, this is your last chance!
Morey’s Piers is wrapping up its Oktoberfest celebration this weekend, bringing a little taste of Germany right to the Wildwoods Boardwalk.
The pier has been transformed with Oktoberfest decorations, traditional German food, live music, and plenty of entertainment for the entire family.
And, of course, you can still enjoy your favorite rides and games before the piers close for the season.
One of the biggest highlights is the popular Stein-Holding Competition, where guests compete to see who can hold a full stein the longest.
Competitions take place Friday and Saturday at 7:15 p.m. and Sunday at 2:45 p.m.
There’s even a Root Bier Stein-Holding Competition for the kids, featuring a fun Simon Says-style twist.
Oktoberfest officially wraps up on Sunday, October 11, making this your final opportunity to enjoy the rides and festivities before the off-season begins.
When: Friday, October 9 through Sunday, October 11
Where: Morey’s Piers, Wildwoods Boardwalk
N. Wildwood Family Holiday Beach Bonfire – 2021
16th Annual Bonfire on the Beach
There’s something special about sitting around a giant bonfire on the beach during a cool October evening.
And this Saturday, one of North Wildwood’s favorite fall traditions returns!
The 16th Annual Bonfire on the Beach will take place at 1st and Surf Avenues in North Wildwood, bringing together families and friends for a night of music, food, and fun right on the sand.
The event is hosted by the Anglesea Irish Society and the Greater Wildwood Jaycees.
Visitors are encouraged to bring their own beach chairs or blankets, find a comfortable spot, and enjoy the evening.
There will be live musical entertainment throughout the night, along with food and refreshments available for purchase.
It’s a great way to enjoy the beach one more time before the colder weather really settles in.
And if the weather doesn’t cooperate, organizers have already scheduled a rain date for Saturday, October 17.
When: Saturday, October 10, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: 1st and Surf Avenues, North Wildwood
Rain Date: Saturday, October 17
Byrne Plaza Wins 2018 Downtown NJ Excellence Award
Wildwood Days Festival – A Brand-New Celebration
Here’s something completely new for 2026!
The first-ever Wildwood Days Festival is coming to Byrne Plaza this Saturday, and it’s all about celebrating the history, music, and memories that made the Wildwoods such a special place.
Presented by The Bobby Rydell Foundation, the festival is designed to take visitors back to the golden age of the Jersey Shore.
Think classic Wildwood summers, great music, the excitement of the boardwalk, and all those memories that generations of families have made right here on the island.
The festival will feature entertainment, craft and gift vendors, and plenty of food options.
And the best part?
It’s completely FREE to attend!
Whether you grew up spending your summers in Wildwood or you’re just discovering what makes this place so special, this sounds like a fun way to spend your Saturday.
When: Saturday, October 10, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Byrne Plaza, 3400 Pacific Avenue, Wildwood
Admission: FREE
10th Anniversary Unity Day at Fox Park
Another great community event taking place this Saturday is the 10th Anniversary Unity Day celebration at Fox Park.
Presented by the Right to Unite Organization, Unity Day brings together local churches, law enforcement, community organizations, and residents for an afternoon focused on bringing people together.
And this year is especially meaningful because the event is celebrating its 10th anniversary!
The celebration will feature live entertainment, special guest artists, inflatables for children, face painting, free food, and other family-friendly activities.
It’s an opportunity for families to enjoy an afternoon outside while connecting with the organizations and people who help make our community what it is.
The event is open to all ages, and admission is completely free.
When: Saturday, October 10, from noon to 4 p.m.
Where: Fox Park, 4500 Ocean Avenue, Wildwood