New Jersey is packed with energy this week as the calendar fills with music festivals, comedy shows, and cultural events that capture the Garden State’s rich and diverse entertainment spirit. From soulful jazz icons to rock legends, and from historic theatre revivals to big-name stadium shows, this week’s top 20 events bring something unforgettable to every kind of crowd.
Whether you’re looking to dance in the grass with the Dave Matthews Band, groove with jazz fusion royalty Stanley Clarke, or indulge in southern flavor at the Crawfish Fest, New Jersey’s live scene is buzzing louder than ever.
Let’s dive into the can’t-miss events lighting up stages across the state this week:
🎶 1. Dave Matthews Band at PNC Bank Arts Center – Holmdel
It’s not summer in New Jersey without Dave Matthews Band taking over PNC. The jam band kings return with their signature mix of tight grooves, fan-favorite classics, and new hits.
🦞 2. Crawfish Fest – Sussex County Fairgrounds, Augusta
Laissez les bons temps rouler! This three-day outdoor celebration brings authentic Louisiana culture to Jersey with live zydeco, blues, and Cajun bands, plus thousands of pounds of fresh crawfish.
🎸 3. Stanley Clarke at SOPAC – South Orange
The jazz bass legend hits the stage with virtuosic energy. If you’re into genre-bending fusion and world-class musicianship, this one’s essential.
🎤 4. Tony Orlando at Resorts Casino – Atlantic City
Get ready for a night of nostalgia as Tony Orlando brings his timeless voice and iconic hits to the Jersey Shore.
🎭 5. She Stoops to Conquer at Shakespeare Theatre of NJ – Madison
This revival of Oliver Goldsmith’s classic comedy offers sharp wit, mistaken identities, and a slice of 18th-century England. A must for theatre lovers craving something timeless and smart.
🎶 6. The Bongos at White Eagle Hall – Jersey City
New Jersey’s beloved post-punk pioneers reunite for a high-energy homecoming show. Expect jangly guitars, catchy choruses, and a big dose of Jersey rock nostalgia.
🎸 7. Dave Davies of The Kinks – Newton Theatre
Rock royalty rolls into town as the Kinks’ legendary guitarist brings his solo work and a few British Invasion classics to life in this intimate venue.
🎹 8. Glen Burtnik’s Summer of Love – Count Basie Center, Red Bank
A psychedelic tribute to the music that defined a generation. Think Woodstock vibes, flower power, and the ultimate ‘60s soundtrack.
😂 9. Stand-Up Comedy Night – Stress Factory, New Brunswick
Catch a stacked lineup of comedians delivering sharp sets in one of New Jersey’s top comedy venues.
🌞 10. Pier Village Summer Kickoff – Long Branch
Live music, food trucks, fireworks, and beachside fun. The unofficial start to summer in Long Branch is a full-day party worth catching.
🎻 11. New Jersey Symphony: Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto – NJPAC, Newark
A night of classical brilliance with one of the world’s most beautiful violin concertos brought to life by the state’s own symphony.
🎡 12. Wildwoods International Kite Festival – Wildwood
The sky becomes a canvas as kite flyers from around the world show off massive, colorful creations along the beach. Great for families and photographers alike.
🍻 13. Jersey City Craft Brew Fest – Harborside Atrium
Sample dozens of breweries, listen to live music, and enjoy stunning views of Manhattan while sipping local favorites and seasonal rarities.
🎨 14. Asbury Park Art Star Craft Bazaar – Convention Hall
Support indie makers, artists, and creatives at this curated market on the boardwalk. Handmade everything from ceramics to vintage finds.
🎥 15. Drive-In Movie Night – Delsea Drive-In, Vineland
Catch classic flicks and new releases under the stars at New Jersey’s only remaining drive-in theater.
🎸 16. Vintage Vinyl Record Show – Montclair Women’s Club
Dig through crates of rare records, collectible finds, and vintage music merch. A crate-digger’s paradise.
🎶 17. Live at The Stone Pony – Asbury Park
Asbury’s legendary venue is never quiet for long. This week’s lineup includes rising indie acts, Jersey locals, and surprise guest appearances.
🧘 18. Yoga on the Pier – Hoboken
Start your morning right with a scenic yoga session overlooking the Manhattan skyline. Bring your mat and breathe it all in.
🐟 19. Red Bank RiverFest – Marine Park
Live music, fresh seafood, and craft vendors bring this waterfront celebration to life. Great food meets good vibes.
🪕 20. Bluegrass and BBQ at Waterloo Village – Stanhope
Grab a plate of ribs, tap your foot to some down-home tunes, and enjoy this family-friendly blend of music and mouthwatering BBQ.
From rock legends and jazz masters to food festivals and beachfront parties, this week’s top events prove that New Jersey knows how to celebrate life — loud, local, and full of heart.
🎟️ Want more local events? Check out the full calendar at Explore New Jersey Events and start planning your week with the best concerts, shows, and gatherings around the Garden State.
Let the music play, the crawfish boil, and the memories begin.