New Jersey’s unofficial kickoff to summer is here—and the weather has some thoughts of its own. Memorial Day Weekend 2025 is shaping up to be a tale of two seasons: crisp, breezy spring vibes on the front end, and warmer, more summerlike conditions sneaking in by Sunday and Monday.
If you’re planning a barbecue, a beach trip, a hike, or just some well-earned relaxation, here’s your hyper-local breakdown of what to expect—and what it means for your weekend plans across the Garden State.
And while you’re thinking about the skies above, don’t forget the conversations on the ground. New Jersey’s political landscape is also shifting as we head into summer. Stay up to speed on local policy and government updates right here.
🌤️ The Vibe: Hoodie Weather Now, Shorts Weather Coming
A high-altitude upper low is spinning just north of us, putting the brakes on any serious warmth for the start of the long weekend. But as that system finally slides away, a ridge builds in from the west—bringing sunshine and warmer days as the weekend unfolds.
Think of it as a weather sandwich: cool and cozy up front, seasonably sweet in the middle, with some possible stormy crumbs as we head into next week.
🌬️ Friday, May 23 – A Cool Start
- Highs: Low to mid 60s
- Sky: Mixed sun and clouds
- Chance of Rain: Low, but not zero. Spotty showers could pop up.
- Winds: Light-to-breezy out of the west
- Overnight Lows: 45–55° from North Jersey to the Shore
What It Means: Friday might not scream “summer,” but it’s a fantastic day for hiking, exploring small towns, or enjoying outdoor dining with a light jacket. Cooler air and low humidity make it a win for anyone allergic to sweat.
🌥️ Saturday, May 24 – Copy, Paste, and Chill
- Highs: Still stuck in the low-to-mid 60s
- Sky: Same mix of sun and clouds
- Chance of Rain: Can’t rule out isolated sprinkles or a quick boom
- Winds: Breezy out of the W/SW
- Overnight Lows: 45–55° again
What It Means: Saturday looks like a carbon copy of Friday—cool, breezy, mostly dry, but still carrying a chance of a surprise shower. Pack that hoodie, and maybe a poncho just in case. A great day for strolling a local festival or hitting a brewery with outdoor seating.
🌤️ Sunday, May 25 – Here Comes the Warm-Up
- Highs: Warming into the 65–70° range
- Sky: Partly sunny with less cloud cover
- Winds: NW breeze
- Overnight Lows: 45–55°
What It Means: Sunday is the turning point. While still not quite full beach weather, it’ll feel like we’re on the edge of summer. Great day for a backyard BBQ, farmers market, or sunset walk along the shore. The hoodie might stay in your bag this time.
☀️ Monday, May 26 – Memorial Day Magic
- Highs: Near 70°, possibly low 70s away from the water
- Sky: Sun-filled with just a few clouds
- Winds: Light N/NW
- Overnight Lows: 45–55°
What It Means: Memorial Day itself looks like the MVP of the weekend. Mild, mostly sunny, and finally flirting with the warmth we’ve all been waiting for. If you’ve been holding out for a beach trip or a park picnic, Monday’s the move.
⛈️ Early Peek at Next Week: Warmer but Wetter
- Temps: 68–75° range
- Conditions: Unsettled—meaning rain and possibly storms in the mix
What It Means: Summer energy will stick around in the air, but the skies could be moodier. Keep umbrellas nearby and watch for updates if you’re planning anything outdoors during the week.
🎯 Final Take: Best Days for What
- Outdoor Adventures: Friday & Saturday (cool but mostly dry)
- Festivals & Street Fairs: All weekend—dress in layers
- Best BBQ/Beach Day: Monday
- Most Photogenic Sunset: Sunday evening
Don’t Just Watch the Weather—Watch What’s Happening in Jersey
While we track changes in wind and weather patterns, there’s another forecast you shouldn’t ignore: the political one. From local ordinances to statehouse drama, New Jersey’s political scene is heating up alongside the weather.
Stay informed with in-depth, local-focused coverage on what’s happening in your community—visit our Politics section here.
In Jersey, Every Forecast Tells a Story
This Memorial Day Weekend may not start hot, but it’s got plenty of upside. Cool, dry air gives you space to breathe. Sunshine slowly builds in. And by Monday, it’s everything you want from the first big weekend of summer—without the sticky heat.
So get out there. Explore a new corner of the Garden State. Let the weather guide your plans, not stop them. And whatever you do, keep your eye on the sky—and your heart in Jersey.