🎶 A Free, Funky, Feel-Good Weekend of Music, Art, Food & Community
Maplewoodstock is the heart and soul of summer in Maplewood, New Jersey. What started back in 2004 as a casual jam session among a group of local neighbors and musicians has grown into one of the region’s most beloved free music and arts festivals.
Held every July in Memorial Park, this two-day celebration features an eclectic lineup of live music, local art, mouthwatering food vendors, and family-friendly fun—all produced entirely by volunteers and fueled by community support.
This is not your average town event. Maplewoodstock is completely independent, run by a small team of passionate locals who volunteer nearly year-round (except for a well-deserved break in August) to make this unforgettable weekend happen. It’s funded solely through sponsorships, merchandise sales, ad revenue, and community contributions—not your taxes.
Each year, local, regional, and national acts take the professional stage, with genres ranging from indie rock and funk to jazz, soul, and global beats. Whether you’re coming to catch a headliner or discover the next rising star, the music is the heartbeat of Maplewoodstock.
Bring a blanket or chair, sprawl out on the grass, and get ready to dance, sway, or just soak in the sound.
In between sets, stroll through rows of local artists, craftspeople, and makers showcasing their work—from handmade jewelry and custom tees to photography, pottery, and more. It’s the perfect place to support small businesses and find a one-of-a-kind treasure.
You won’t go hungry at Maplewoodstock. The park transforms into a global kitchen with local vendors offering everything from BBQ and vegan wraps to frozen treats and festival favorites. Grab a drink at the Beer Garden, a favorite hangout for adults looking to cool down and kick back.
This festival isn’t just for grownups. The Kids Zone is packed with activities to keep little ones entertained—face painting, crafts, rides, games, and more. It’s a safe and welcoming space where families can relax and enjoy the day together.
Maplewoodstock’s core mission is simple:
To bring people together through music, art, and community.
We’re committed to showcasing local talent, fostering creative expression, and keeping the event accessible and free of politics, advertising gimmicks, and outside agendas. Just good music, great art, and even better people.
Maplewoodstock is proudly produced by the Music & Arts Education Project (MAEP), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to expanding music and arts education in schools across New Jersey. Through events like Maplewoodstock, MAEP advocates for access, equity, and creativity in public education—and your support helps fuel that mission.
Want to help keep the arts alive in NJ?
Donate to MAEP or become a sponsor.
A tribute to Jim Buchanan, one of Maplewoodstock’s original founders and a longtime champion of arts and culture in the Maplewood-South Orange community. Jim passed in January 2023 at the age of 80. His passion, leadership, and joy live on in every note played and every smile shared at the festival.
Maplewoodstock is more than a festival—it’s a vibe, a tradition, and a celebration of everything that makes our community shine. Whether you’re here to groove, shop, snack, sip, or just smile with neighbors, this is the weekend you’ll talk about all year.
Mark your calendar. Bring your friends. Be part of the tradition.
We’ll see you on the lawn.
Explore More New Jersey Festivals Here
Want to feature your event in our directory? Contact us to be listed.