Summer Begins: 5 Fun Weekend Events In Ocean County

OCEAN COUNTY, NJ — The first weekend of summer is packed with festivals, family fun, live music and outdoor experiences across Ocean County.

Whether you're looking to unwind with yoga on the beach, sample food truck favorites, browse local artwork or celebrate America's 250th anniversary, there's something for everyone June 19-20.

Summer Solstice Celebration At Island Beach State Park

Welcome the official start of summer with an evening of relaxation and nature during the Summer Solstice Celebration at Island Beach State Park on Friday, June 19.

Hosted by Friends of Island Beach State Park, the event runs from 4 to 9:30 p.m. at Swimming Area 2 and features yoga and meditation led by IBSP naturalists and volunteers from Sanctuary Yoga & Meditation. Guests can also enjoy live music by local band Fish & Whistle while taking in sunset views along the Jersey Shore.

The event is weather dependent.

Food Trucks, Live Music Highlight Lavallette Kickoff To Summer

Enjoy Lavallette will officially welcome the season with its Kickoff to Summer Food Truck Festival on Saturday, June 20.

The festival runs from 3 to 9 p.m. along the Lavallette Bayfront at Philadelphia Avenue and features a variety of food trucks, live bands, children's activities and beautiful waterfront views. Admission is $5 for adults, while children are admitted free.

Early risers can also participate in the Kickoff to Summer 5K earlier that morning.

Arts & Crafts By The Sea Returns To Seaside Heights

Shoppers can browse handcrafted artwork, jewelry, home décor, gifts and more during Arts & Crafts by the Sea on the Seaside Heights Boardwalk.

The outdoor artisan market will be open Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event is weather permitting, with a rain date scheduled for Sunday, June 21.

Seaside Park Fire Company Hosts Summer Kickoff Party

Families are invited to celebrate the start of summer at the Seaside Park Station 45 Volunteer Fire Company Summer Kickoff Party on Saturday.

The event takes place from 4 to 9 p.m. at 1 Municipal Plaza and features food trucks, DJ entertainment, a beer truck, children's games and activities, plus an opportunity to meet local firefighters.

Celebrate America's 250th During Beach Haven Bar Crawl

The Beach Haven Volunteer Fire Company is hosting its Red, White & Bar Crawl on Saturday in celebration of America's 250th anniversary.

Check-in begins at 10 a.m. at the firehouse, 100 S. Bay Ave., before participants head out from noon to 7 p.m. to visit 10 participating bars throughout Beach Haven.

Pre-registration includes a commemorative 250th anniversary T-shirt, stadium cup, raffle ticket and donation-based rides provided by volunteers. The day concludes with a gift basket raffle back at the firehouse.