Avalon Events Coming in the Shoulder Season

Posted August 29th 2022

The summer season gets all the attention, but there are some on the island who prefer the endless summer – for good reason. The shoulder season into September and October boasts quiet streets, beautiful beach weather, great dining and shopping without long lines. And on top of that, some really fun events.

The annual End-of-Summer Shop Hop returns Sept. 9 to 11, with more than 30 stores participating throughout Avalon featuring end-of-season discounts, sales, and promotions. Shop and enjoy summer merchandise, fall and winter previews, home décor, and accessories. And then take a lunch break with a refreshing cocktail, taking advantage of Shop Hop specials provided by Bobby Dee’s Rock’n Chair Restaurant.

Back after a two-year COVID hiatus, the Avalon Wine & Spirits Festival returns to kick off Columbus Day weekend on Friday, Oct. 7. Guests can purchase tickets in advance by going to visitavalonnj.com.

Enjoy a tasting of more than 100 high-end wines, spirits, and beers, plus passed hors d’oeuvres featuring local cuisine. There also will be live music by Five Times Famous, and an extensive silent auction.

And moving into the weekend, Avalon’s Arts & Seafood Festival returns on Saturday, Oct. 8, boasting a new name thanks to a renewed focus on local art and artisan vendors. Of course, it also still feature lots of fresh, local seafood. Attendees will enjoy shopping, plus live music from Hickstown Road, children’s activities, and the return of the popular Sound Advice lounge serving beer and wine, and livestreaming the college football games.

“These shoulder season events are a great way to keep the summer fun going, and encourage an extended visitation to Avalon,” said Avalon Chamber of Commerce President John O’Dea. “We’re excited to invite residents and vacationers to shop, dine, and enjoy Avalon throughout the fall.”

And be sure to save the date for the return of the popular Thanksgiving weekend events including the Festival of Trees, the Helen L. Diller Vacation Home for Blind Children Turkey Trot, Festive Friday, Santa Lights Dune Drive parade, and Snowfest Saturday.

Farewell to summer, and welcome to an endless summer!

Photo caption: The Avalon Wine & Spirits Festival returns after a two-year hiatus on Friday, Oct. 7, followed by the Avalon Arts & Seafood Festival on Saturday, Oct. 8.