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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260718T120000
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DTSTAMP:20260706T115043Z
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UID:99045-1784376000-1784413800@explorenewjersey.org
SUMMARY:2026 Jazz\, Health and Food Truck Festival
DESCRIPTION:Jazz\, Health & Food Truck Festival Returns to Orange with a Celebration of Music\, Wellness\, and Community \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEach year\, communities across New Jersey come together for festivals that reflect the state’s remarkable cultural diversity\, but few events blend live entertainment\, public health\, family engagement\, and culinary experiences as successfully as the Jazz\, Health & Food Truck Festival in the City of Orange Township. Returning in 2026\, this free outdoor event once again transforms Monte Irvin Orange Park into one of Essex County’s signature summer destinations\, offering visitors an opportunity to experience world-class jazz performances while exploring wellness resources\, community organizations\, and an outstanding selection of local food vendors. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPresented through a partnership between the City of Orange Township\, Essex County Parks\, and Gregory Burrus Productions\, the festival has grown into far more than a concert series. It has become a community tradition that reflects the city’s commitment to bringing together residents and visitors through music\, education\, culture\, and public health. The event welcomes attendees of every age\, creating an atmosphere where families\, longtime jazz enthusiasts\, first-time visitors\, and community organizations all share the same space in celebration of one of America’s most enduring musical traditions. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSet against the backdrop of Monte Irvin Orange Park\, the festival embraces the idea that public spaces can serve as vibrant cultural gathering places. Throughout the day\, visitors can move easily between live performances\, interactive exhibits\, health screenings\, community information booths\, and food truck offerings while enjoying an event designed to be accessible and welcoming to everyone. Admission is free\, reinforcing the festival’s mission of making arts and wellness programming available to the entire community. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOne of the defining elements of the festival is its commitment to combining entertainment with meaningful public engagement. Alongside an impressive schedule of musical performances\, the event once again incorporates the 3 Doctors Health Fair\, which takes place from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. The health fair connects attendees with healthcare professionals\, wellness organizations\, educational resources\, and preventive health information in an informal setting that encourages conversation and accessibility. By integrating health programming directly into a major cultural event\, the festival demonstrates how public gatherings can promote both entertainment and community well-being. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMusic remains the centerpiece of the celebration\, and the 2026 festival promises another outstanding lineup that reflects the depth and diversity of today’s jazz landscape. Festival organizers have assembled an impressive collection of accomplished performers representing traditional jazz\, contemporary interpretations\, vocal performances\, tributes to legendary artists\, and innovative collaborations that showcase the continuing evolution of the genre. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAmong the featured performances is acclaimed saxophonist Houston Person\, whose remarkable career has made him one of the most respected figures in American jazz. Joining him is guitarist Matt Chertkoff\, creating a quartet that blends sophisticated musicianship with timeless jazz traditions. Audiences will also experience the Nat Adderley Jr. Quartet\, led by the accomplished pianist\, composer\, and arranger whose distinguished career spans jazz\, Broadway\, television\, and popular music. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe festival will also celebrate the enduring influence of jazz history through thoughtfully curated tribute performances. A special homage to Ma Rainey featuring Charlie Apicella and Pat Tandy honors one of the foundational voices of American blues\, while the Barry Harris Tribute featuring Phil Bingham and the Barry Harris Choir recognizes the extraordinary legacy of one of jazz’s most influential pianists and educators. These performances connect contemporary audiences with the artists whose innovations helped shape modern American music. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAdding to the musical diversity are performances by the Alexis Morrast Quartet\, Lin Rountree\, the Bradford Hayes Quartet\, the James Gibbs Trio\, and the Geminii Dragon Duo\, each bringing their own distinctive artistic voice to the festival stage. Together\, the performers represent multiple generations of jazz musicians\, reflecting both the rich heritage and continuing vitality of the genre. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe day’s programming extends beyond traditional concerts. The Mental Health Association of New Jersey’s Mental Health Players will present a special performance that highlights the important connection between the arts and emotional well-being. The festival also includes Jesus and Jazz featuring the TUP Spirit Flags of Dance\, blending inspirational music with expressive movement in a performance that celebrates both faith and artistic expression. Organizers have also announced that an additional special event will be revealed as the festival approaches\, adding another element of anticipation to an already full schedule. \n\n\n\nFood has become another defining feature of the Jazz\, Health & Food Truck Festival. A carefully selected lineup of food trucks offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of cuisines throughout the day\, creating an experience that extends well beyond the concert stage. From classic festival favorites to internationally inspired dishes and handcrafted desserts\, the culinary offerings reflect the diversity that has become one of New Jersey’s greatest strengths. Guests are encouraged to spend the day exploring both the music and the food while enjoying one of Essex County’s premier outdoor events. \n\n\n\nThe festival’s continued success speaks to the growing importance of community-centered cultural programming throughout New Jersey. Events like this not only showcase exceptional artistic talent but also strengthen local economies\, introduce audiences to regional organizations\, support small businesses\, and encourage residents to take advantage of public parks and community spaces. They demonstrate how municipalities can successfully combine arts\, education\, wellness\, and recreation into a single event that serves thousands of residents and visitors. \n\n\n\nFor jazz lovers\, the festival offers the opportunity to experience outstanding musicians in an open-air setting that encourages discovery and appreciation. For families\, it provides a full day of free activities in a welcoming environment. For community organizations\, healthcare providers\, and local businesses\, it creates valuable opportunities to connect directly with the public. Together\, these elements have helped establish the Jazz\, Health & Food Truck Festival as one of the region’s most anticipated annual gatherings. \n\n\n\nAs anticipation builds for the 2026 edition\, the City of Orange Township once again demonstrates how thoughtfully planned community festivals can celebrate culture while serving a broader civic purpose. Through live jazz\, accessible health resources\, exceptional food\, and a spirit of inclusion\, the Jazz\, Health & Food Truck Festival continues to exemplify the best of New Jersey’s community life\, inviting residents and visitors alike to spend a summer day experiencing outstanding music\, meaningful connections\, and the vibrant energy that defines Orange and Essex County.
URL:https://explorenewjersey.org/event/2026-jazz-health-and-food-truck-festival/
LOCATION:Monte Irvin Orange Park\, S Center St & South Harrison Street\, 35 E Highland Ave\, City of Orange\, 07050\, United States
CATEGORIES:Concerts,Festivals,Music
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ORGANIZER;CN="Gregory Burrus Productions":MAILTO:burrusgregory4techoss@gmail.com
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DTSTAMP:20260622T142728Z
CREATED:20260622T142532Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260622T142728Z
UID:97097-1784404800-1784417400@explorenewjersey.org
SUMMARY:Billy Currington and Kip Moore
DESCRIPTION:Billy Currington and Kip Moore Bring a Summer Country Music Celebration to The Stone Pony Summer Stage \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSummer at the Jersey Shore has always been about more than sunshine\, boardwalks\, and ocean breezes. For generations\, it has also been defined by live music. From intimate club performances to major outdoor concerts drawing thousands of fans\, New Jersey’s coastline has evolved into one of the most vibrant seasonal music destinations on the East Coast. Every summer brings a new lineup of artists eager to perform against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean\, and few venues capture that spirit better than The Stone Pony Summer Stage in Asbury Park. \n\n\n\nOn July 18\, country music fans will have the opportunity to experience one of the season’s most anticipated concerts when Billy Currington and Kip Moore take the stage for an evening that combines chart-topping hits\, road-tested musicianship\, and the unmistakable atmosphere that has made The Stone Pony Summer Stage one of New Jersey’s premier outdoor concert destinations. Joined by special guest Kenny Whitmire\, the performance promises to deliver a memorable night of contemporary country music while continuing Asbury Park’s tradition as one of the region’s most important live entertainment hubs. \n\n\n\nThe announcement represents another significant addition to a summer concert calendar that has helped establish Asbury Park as a destination for audiences from throughout New Jersey\, New York\, Pennsylvania\, and beyond. While the city is often celebrated for its historic role in rock and roll history\, recent years have demonstrated its ability to welcome artists from every corner of the musical landscape. Country music has become an increasingly important part of that story\, attracting large audiences who appreciate both the music and the unique setting that only the Jersey Shore can provide. \n\n\n\nBilly Currington arrives in Asbury Park as one of country music’s most successful and consistent hitmakers. Throughout a career spanning more than two decades\, Currington has built a catalog that combines traditional country storytelling with contemporary production and an easygoing coastal sensibility that resonates particularly well in seaside venues. \n\n\n\nHis appeal has always rested on authenticity. Rather than chasing trends\, Currington has cultivated a sound rooted in relatable experiences\, emotional honesty\, and melodies that connect immediately with listeners. Songs such as “People Are Crazy\,” “Good Directions\,” “Must Be Doin’ Somethin’ Right\,” and “Hey Girl” helped establish him as a fixture on country radio while earning him a loyal fan base that continues to grow with each passing year. \n\n\n\nWhat separates Currington from many of his contemporaries is his ability to balance heartfelt ballads with upbeat summer anthems. His music often evokes the same sense of relaxation and escape that draws visitors to the Jersey Shore every year. It is easy to imagine songs like “Pretty Good at Drinkin’ Beer” or “Do I Make You Wanna” serving as the soundtrack to a warm summer evening along the Atlantic coast. \n\n\n\nLive\, Currington brings a laid-back confidence that reflects both his musical style and his personality. His performances rarely feel overproduced or overly choreographed. Instead\, they focus on strong musicianship\, audience connection\, and songs that have become part of the modern country music canon. \n\n\n\nSharing the bill is Kip Moore\, an artist whose reputation as a live performer has elevated him into one of country music’s most respected touring acts. While Moore has achieved significant commercial success through songs like “Somethin’ ’Bout a Truck\,” “Beer Money\,” “More Girls Like You\,” and “Hey Pretty Girl\,” his appeal extends far beyond radio charts. \n\n\n\nMoore’s music often occupies a unique space within contemporary country. Drawing inspiration from heartland rock\, Americana\, Southern rock\, and traditional country influences\, he creates songs that feel cinematic in scope while remaining deeply personal. Themes of freedom\, wanderlust\, resilience\, and self-discovery run throughout his catalog\, giving his music a depth that resonates with audiences seeking something beyond conventional radio fare. \n\n\n\nHis concerts have become legendary among fans because of their intensity and emotional authenticity. Moore approaches every performance with a level of commitment that transforms even familiar songs into powerful shared experiences. Whether performing an acoustic ballad or a full-throttle anthem\, he consistently creates moments that feel intimate despite the size of the audience. \n\n\n\nThat combination of Currington’s relaxed charm and Moore’s passionate intensity creates an especially compelling pairing. Together\, they represent two distinct but complementary approaches to modern country music\, offering fans an evening that showcases both the genre’s diversity and its enduring appeal. \n\n\n\nAdding to the evening is Kenny Whitmire\, whose appearance further strengthens a lineup already rich with talent. Opening artists play a critical role in shaping the energy of a concert\, often introducing audiences to emerging voices while setting the stage for the night’s headliners. Whitmire’s inclusion reflects the ongoing commitment to highlighting artists who represent the next generation of country and Americana performers. \n\n\n\nThe concert experience extends beyond the main Summer Stage performance. Earlier in the evening\, audiences will have the opportunity to enjoy a special indoor performance by Prodigal Suns inside The Stone Pony. Following the main event\, JD Brook will keep the music going with a late-night set inside the venue. These additional performances transform the concert into a full-night musical experience\, reinforcing the community atmosphere that has long defined Asbury Park’s live music culture. \n\n\n\nThe venue itself remains one of the evening’s biggest attractions. The Stone Pony Summer Stage has become synonymous with major outdoor concerts at the Jersey Shore. Located on Ocean Avenue\, steps from the beach and boardwalk\, the venue combines festival-sized energy with a setting that is uniquely New Jersey. \n\n\n\nFew places in the country can offer audiences the opportunity to see nationally recognized artists while surrounded by the sights\, sounds\, and atmosphere of a thriving seaside community. Concertgoers often spend the day exploring Asbury Park’s restaurants\, shops\, galleries\, and beaches before heading to the Summer Stage for an evening performance. The result is an experience that feels larger than a concert and more like a celebration of everything that makes the Jersey Shore special during the summer months. \n\n\n\nAsbury Park’s evolution into a year-round cultural destination has only strengthened the significance of events like this. While music remains central to the city’s identity\, it now exists alongside a thriving arts scene\, expanding culinary offerings\, and a renewed appreciation for the city’s rich history. Concerts at The Stone Pony Summer Stage help connect these elements\, drawing visitors who contribute to the city’s economic vitality while experiencing one of New Jersey’s most dynamic communities. \n\n\n\nCountry music’s growth in New Jersey has been particularly noteworthy over the past decade. Once viewed primarily as a regional genre\, country music now enjoys widespread popularity throughout the Northeast. Major tours consistently draw strong crowds across New Jersey\, and artists regularly include the state on national itineraries. \n\n\n\nPart of that success stems from the genre’s ability to evolve while remaining grounded in storytelling. Modern country encompasses a broad spectrum of influences\, from traditional honky-tonk and bluegrass to rock\, pop\, folk\, and Americana. Artists like Currington and Moore exemplify that evolution\, each bringing distinctive perspectives while maintaining a strong connection to the genre’s core traditions. \n\n\n\nFor New Jersey audiences\, these concerts provide opportunities to engage with artists whose music often explores themes that transcend geography. Stories of family\, perseverance\, relationships\, adventure\, and personal growth resonate regardless of where listeners call home. The emotional accessibility of country music continues to attract audiences from diverse backgrounds\, helping explain its remarkable growth throughout the region. \n\n\n\nThe July 18 concert arrives during one of the busiest periods of the summer entertainment calendar\, when visitors and residents alike are looking for memorable experiences that capture the energy of the season. Few events accomplish that goal more effectively than a major outdoor concert at the Shore. \n\n\n\nAs the sun begins to set over Asbury Park and thousands of fans gather along Ocean Avenue\, the evening will become part of a long tradition of unforgettable summer nights defined by great music and shared experiences. Billy Currington and Kip Moore bring not only impressive catalogs of hit songs but also decades of combined touring experience\, ensuring a performance that balances professionalism\, spontaneity\, and genuine audience connection. \n\n\n\nFor country music fans\, the concert represents a rare opportunity to see two accomplished headliners share the same stage in one of the region’s most celebrated venues. For Asbury Park\, it serves as another chapter in a continuing story that has made the city synonymous with live music excellence. And for Explore New Jersey readers seeking one of the standout entertainment events of the summer\, this July evening at The Stone Pony Summer Stage promises to deliver exactly the kind of unforgettable experience that keeps audiences returning to the Jersey Shore year after year.
URL:https://explorenewjersey.org/event/billy-currington-and-kip-moore/
LOCATION:The Stone Pony Summer Stage\, 909 Ocean Ave N\, Asbury Park\, New Jersey\, 07712\, United States
CATEGORIES:Concerts,Music
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