Most people don't realize that Atlantic City is much like Las Vegas in that it really does have fun things for kids to do. In fact, besides the Atlantic City kids attractions the city has some of the most original and entertaining festivals and citywide events around. If you consider that all those casinos employ tens of thousands of people, who have families of their own, then it's easy to understand why there absolutely must be fun things for kids to do in Atlantic City!
Most will, unfortunately, not have enough time to visit the many Atlantic City kids attractions and sights and also fit in a citywide event or festival--or even be in town during one. But for those who are fortunate enough, there's a long laundry list of kid-appropriate events in Atlantic City, so if possible treat yourself and the kids to one. Please forgive me for the lack of exact dates but the 2008 dates have yet to be announced for some of these events.
Kids Can! Expo
Location: Cape May Convention Hall
Date: February
The Kids Can! Expo is back again for another day of fun-filled affirmation that yes, kids can do many things when they set their minds to something. The 11th annual version promises loads of fun for kids and plenty of activities to keep them engaged and happy for the day. Parents can attend if they wish, but are not required to do so—so while the little ones are having a ball, mom and dad can have some free time, or can sit in and participate in the craft sessions or the puppet theatre. Featuring the Brownstone Puppet Theatre this year, Kids Can! also includes such fun things to do as the ever-popular ocean touch-tanks, dance exhibitions and hands-on environmental science displays. As if that’s not enough, you can also meander along and choose from lots of fun food, get your face painted, see some live animals and make a craft to take home. This is truly a day of discovery for kids, building their self-esteem and teaching them valuable lessons at the same time. A relaxed, kid-friendly environment just makes it all the more fun for everyone who attends. If your kid is ready for a day of fun, then Kids Can! is the perfect choice for your family. Have fun.
The Great Egg Hunt
Location: 58th Street Beach, Ocean City
Date: March
Imagine the excitement and the feeling of anticipation of children of all ages when they come to the 58th Street Beach in Ocean City to look for eggs. This tradition has been recreated every year for the last 21 years and it ushers in Easter. Over 4,000 kids will dig for 10,000 eggs filled with candy which have been previously buried in the sand. Prior to the hunt, the kids are separated in three different groups by age to facilitate the hunt. Pictures with the Easter Bunny on the beach and refreshments will also be available. Come to the only Egg Hunt on the beach in the world!
Atlantic City Doo Dah Parade
Location: Asbury Ave. between 6th and 12th Sts, Ocean City
Date: April
The Doo Dah Parade is the wackiest parade in the world and, for the 21st year in a row, folks will flock to Ocean City’s pristine streets to view one of the nation’s most unusual processions…the Doo Dah Parade. Originally organized to help celebrate the end of tax season, the Doo Dah Parade draws participants from far and wide including a number of unusual contingents such as beach chair drill teams, alphabet soup brigades, and hobo bands. This year’s event, marking the 21st anniversary of the Doo Dah doings, will start a week early with the celebration of the 3rd Annual Doo Dah Pie-asco. Legendary pie-tosser Soupy Sales will help kick off the festivities with a mass pie plastering, reminiscent of his TV show of the 1950s and 60s. After a week full of special events, the parade kicks off at noon on the 16th. This year’s grand marshal, Carol Channing, will lead a host of comic impersonators, dragons, mechanical ketchup bottles, self-named aliens, and other bizarre musical groups and unidentified objects. The piece de resistance will be a league of 500 basset hounds, all waddling through town to help raise money for the Basset Hound Rescue League. It’s a sight not to be missed!
Atlantic City Press Kid's Fair
Location: Sandcastle Stadium
Date: April
The Kids Fair in Atlantic City promises a full day of fun, excitement and education for children of all ages. Start your day with a performance by Huckapoo, the popular girl group from New York City. Featured on many Disney soundtracks including Pixel Perfect and an opening act for Jesse McCartney and Aaron Carter, Huckapoo is sure to entertain the whole family with their musical hits. Keep the dance party moving and grooving as Radio Disney keeps the crown entertained with DJ Stylin. And don’t miss a performance by everyone’s favorite, Ronald McDonald. This is a show that creates memories for both children and adults. In the afternoon, put on your thinking caps as you make new discoveries during the Franklin Institute Hold and Cold Show. Children and adults will be fascinated to learn what can happen to common items when mixed with liquid nitrogen. And if you didn’t get enough dancing and music, don’t miss the afternoon shows for Radio Disney and Huckapoo. This Kids Fair is sure to see everyone having a good time. From petting areas to sports figures and learning centers, this interactive festival is one of a kind.
Cape May Music Festival
Location: Cape May Convention Hall (Beach Drive), Episcopal Church of the Advent (Washington & Franklin St.), Cape May Regional High School Auditorium (Route 9)
Date: May
The Cape May Music Festival, celebrating it’s 18th anniversary, features music from all walks of life to suite everyone’s taste. For lovers of classical music, you will enjoy the New York Chamber Ensemble and the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra Chamber Players. And for fans of cultural music, you won’t be missing out when you tap to the beats of Irish, Tango and Jazz music. With 13 concerts during this four-week festival, you and the kids are sure to fall in love with music all over again. But this is not your traditional concert-like music festival. Take in a mini-concert by the Bay Atlantic Symphony while sipping tea at the Twinings Tea Room. Seating is limited at these four events, so be sure to make your reservations early. Or, if that is not your cup of tea, be sure to check out the three-course dinner on the festival’s last day at Mad Batter Restaurant with Maestro Jed Gaylin. Kids and adults will both enjoy the energetic sounds of the Prodigals, an upbeat Irish band, who will keep your head bopping to the beat. And keep the groove going with a concert by Metropolitan Klezmer, a vibrant Yiddish band. Or, slow things down a bit to the smooth sounds of the piano, violin and harpsichord during more traditional performances. No matter your taste in music, you are sure to have a good time at the Cape May Music Festival.
Atlantic City Mayfest
Location: The Towne of Historic Smithville
Date: May
Bring out the May pole and get ready to twirl the colorful streamers at lovely Smithville, New Jersey's MayFest! This charming Southern New Jersey town becomes in full bloom in May when the entire town opens its doors for their annual Mayfest. Boasting live entertainment, colorful performers, lovely dancers, and family-friendly activities, Smithville should be on everyone’s must-see list! The tiny historic hamlet on the shores of Lake Meone hosts this event that will have the whole family talking. In addition to exploring the town’s many antique stores, gift shops, and crafty boutiques, the excitement and fun of Mayfest will add to the family’s enjoyment. Crafters will be delighted when over 100 local artisans, craftsmen, and artists visit the town for Mayfest. This phenomenal arts and crafts show is a Southern New Jersey tradition and an excellent way to support local artists. After a strenuous day of shopping and perusing the stalls filled with hand-created wares, relax with a scrumptious snack, tantalizing treat, or magnificent meal from one of the many area food vendors. Annually turning Mayfest into a stomach-pleasing spectacular, many of these restaurants are located directly in town so you can visit them for more substantial fare. Whatever your wish, Mayfest will exceed your every expectation and prove to be a fun destination for the entire family.
Atlantic City Victorian Fair
Location: Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, Cape May
Date: June
The Victorian Fair will be presented for the 35th year in a row this year. Lovers of all things Victorian will flock to picturesque Cape May, NJ, well-known for its pristine Victorian architecture and beautiful homes. Each year, residents and guests gather at the Emlen Physick house, the town's Victorian house museum, to celebrate Cape May's wonderful heritage at the Victorian Fair, and to gather together for some good old-fashioned fun. Historical characters will come alive during the fair and traverse the fairgrounds to chat with visitors young and old. Everyone can enjoy games from a by-gone era including croquet and ring toss. The music will be rather old-fashioned as well and will include local dancers as well as a Dixieland band. Crafts are always a part of any good street fair and the Victorian Fair in Cape May will be no exception. Additional children's activities will also be plentiful and there will be enough food to feed the hungry crowds who gather at this quaint seaside town.
Atlantic City Fresh Seafood Festival
Location: Historic Gardner’s Basin
Date: June
The Atlantic City Fresh Seafood Festival was created in 1990 to promote public awareness of the ocean, its sea life, seafood and related ecological and environmental concerns. Those attending the festival will reap the benefits of a day full of fine food, fun, and entertainment. Local celebrity chefs will be on hand to prepare the best in seafood that New Jersey has to offer and guests at the event will also have the opportunity to try their hand at some seafood preparation as well. Taste crab cakes, lobster burgers, jambalaya and lots of other wonderful seafood specialties. Guests can also cruise the backbays of Atlantic City onboard Cruisin' 1 and children will enjoy a huge selection of kiddie rides. Bands will be on hand all weekend to entertain the masses. Crafters will be plentiful as well so attendees will be able to purchase t-shirts, jewelry, lighthouses, and a variety of nautical craft items. The non-profit New Jersey Fresh Seafood Festival exists to support South Jersey's two most important resources, its ocean and its children. The festival gives 100% of its income to charity and, to date, has donated nearly half-a-million dollars to worthwhile organizations in the Atlantic City area.
New Jersey Fresh Seafood Festival
Location: Historic Gardener’s Basin, New Hampshire Ave. and the Bay
Date: June
The New Jersey Fresh Seafood Festival is back and it is better than ever. Bring the entire family out to Historic Gardener’s Basin for two days of fun, fun, fun! Even the educational exhibits are fun. Focused around seafood, the big goal of this festival is to make people more aware of the marine environment. No, you don’t have to sit in a desk and listen to a lecture. Instead, you can participate in interactive, hands-on demonstrations. Now this is definitely something your children will love. Head over to the Marine Science Pavilion and check out the aquariums and touch tanks, as well as the many cool marine animals. And that’s not all. Be sure to hop aboard Cruisin ‘1 for an unforgettable boat ride. Your kids may want to stay at the education exhibit all day, but be sure you don’t miss the arts and crafts and kiddy amusement rides. There will be exhibitors from all over showcasing pottery, wooden sculptures, art and much more. And while you parents may want to leave with a craft or two, be sure to have your child’s face painted as their festival souvenir. You can help support local preservation efforts of the New Jersey shore and it’s habitat as well.
Atlantic City Cold Spring Village Independence Day Celebration
Location: Historic Cold Spring Village, 720 Route 9, Cape May
Date: July
Atlantic City and Cape May are celebrating the 4th of July in grand style, so make plans to be at one of several celebrations to choose from for your Atlantic City family fun. The Cape May celebration offers a different twist, with a vintage baseball game played using vintage baseball clubs, equipment and uniforms. No gloves will be used! The rules will follow those of the game as it was played in 1873. Families can bring chairs or blankets to sit on and take in the national pastime as it was back in the day. To continue the celebration, attend Sunday’s musical presentation by the Hackettstown Junior Ancient Fife and Drums Corps. All musicians will be wearing their Revolutionary War-inspired uniforms. This is a great chance to educate your kids on the importance of the holiday, while having a good time doing it. The celebration offers a unique opportunity to travel back in time and watch history unfold. Other celebrations throughout the area offer barbecue, fireworks and parades.
Chicken Bone Beach
Location: Chicken Bone Beach, Missouri Avenue, Atlantic City
Date: July and August
Chicken Bone Beach in Atlantic City is the venue for the seventh annual Jazz on the Beach series that brings greats like drummer Chico Hamilton and saxophonist Greg Osby to an historic section of Atlantic City beach. Sponsored by the Chicken Bone Beach Historic Foundation, the shows also spotlight up-and-coming local musicians. Chicken Bone Beach was a powerful symbol of African-American unity during a period of segregation that lasted until the early 1950s. African-American's were restricted to that section of Boardwalk beach, which got its name from the fact that visitors often arrived with fried-chicken lunches in their baskets – and left the bones behind. Times have changed, but the beach remains as a reminder of how things once were. In 1997, Atlantic City's City Council passed an ordinance declaring Chicken Bone Beach to be an historic site. The jazz shows are aimed at creating pride in black heritage and promoting family values and unity in the community.
New Jersey Sandcastle Contest
Location: 18th Avenue Beach, Belmar
Date: July
The New Jersey Sandcastle Contest in Atlantic City is entering its 20th year, and it keeps breaking its own records. This time, more than 10,000 participants and spectators are expected to participate. New Jersey sand is said to be excellent for constructing elaborate concoctions, and on the day of the contest, don’t be surprised to see the beach covered with alligators, cakes and cars – even octopus. Besides the contest itself, the festivities also include food and entertainment provided by sponsors like Six Flags and Captain Jack’s Restaurant. Trophies and prizes will be awarded to first, second and third-place winners in five categories: ages 7 and under, 8-11, 12-15 and 16 and older. There’s also a category for day-camp groups. Judges rate the entries on creativity, resourcefulness, originality and accessorizing. If it rains, the event will be held the next day. Last year, prizes worth more than $3,500 were handed out. The winner in the coveted “Best of the Beach” category was John Klein, 21, who, with a group of friends, used sand and dry Jell-O to fashion an enormous lobster.
Miss Crustacean Hermit Crab Beauty Contest
Location: 6th Street Beach, Ocean City
Date: August
Miss Crustacean Hermit Crab Beauty Contest is a yearly loved "beauty" contest. The contestants may not have aspirations for stardom, but candidates are, without a doubt, some of the best-dressed Hermit Crabs this side of Seventh Avenue as they claw their way to the coveted title of “Miss Crustacean Hermit Crab.” Kids and their families compete with homemade displays fit for a Hermit Crab and the contestants, beautifully attired for the event, promenade toward claiming the winner’s Cucumber Rind Cup (cucumbers being the preferred food of Hermit Crabs), following in the tradition of an impressive line-up of past winners, including “Old Salt,” “Crabzilla” and “Cleopatra Crab.” The annual competition, a gentle satire on the famed “Miss America Pageant,” is all about fun, and is presided over by Master of Ceremonies Martin J. Mollusk. Once the winner is crowned, the strains of “There she is, Miss Crustacean,” an event covered over its 30-year existence by members of the foreign press as well as the domestic media. It’s all about the beach, the Boardwalk, vacations and hysterical family fun for all ages.
Atlantic City Baby Parade
Location: Boardwalk, Ocean City
Date: August
The 97th Annual Atlantic City Baby Parade, billed as the oldest parade of its kind, will attract a field of more than 300 delightful contestants - - infants to 10 year olds -- in baby buggie bumper-to-bumper traffic on the Boardwalk. But the Boardwalk won’t witness the only traffic jam, as more than 15,000 spectators regularly turn out to see this spectacular line up of little ones, presented on mini-floats, decorated carriages and wagons. Enjoy all of the festivities around the famed Boardwalk and expect to spend about two and one-half hours viewing the parade, themed “Babes in Shoreland.” Then go off to the beach and the Boardwalk in this city that was recently named “Number One Family Beach Resort in the Nation” by the Travel Channel.”
Cape May Wine and Food Festival
Location: Various venues in Cape May
Date: September
Cape May Wine and Food Festival is just around the corner. It is an annual event bursting with good food and great wines for you to tickle your taste buds and sample some of the best from the best of Cape May’s restaurant community during this annual celebration. Dubbed “the Restaurant Capital of New Jersey,” Cape May’s top eateries will swing wide their doors during this four-day event. They will be participating in such interesting events as the Great Restaurant Race, the Lobster Bake-off and many others. Trolley shuttles will be available for the Chef’s Dine-Around and make plenty of room on your schedule to attend the winery tours and wine tastings, as well as the gourmet lunch and the Harvest Marketplace.
Harvest Grape Stomping Festival
Location: 72 North Bremen Ave., Egg Harbor City,
Date: September
Pull off your shoes, wash your feet, roll up your trousers and get ready for a grape stomping good time when The Renault Winery Resort hosts its annual Harvest Grape Stomping event. During the festival, local artisans and craftspeople will exhibit a variety of wine-related crafts. And Renault Winery Resort’s chefs and staff will prepare fabulous seafood fare. What could be better than spending a fall afternoon with the family, enjoying the outdoors, strolling through the exhibit booths, stomping grapes … and for the adults, sipping some Renault Winery wines?
Cape May Lima Bean Festival
Location: Cape May
Date: October
Whoever heard of a Lima Bean Festival? Well, in Cape May, it’s been raised to an art form! The mighty lima is celebrated and feted in a day-long celebration that harkens back to earlier times when this crop was king for the area. While limas are no longer the bumper crop in these parts, the beautiful bean is now prevalent on all sorts of merchandise promoting Cape May. At this kid-friendly Atlantic City festival, you can sample luscious lima bean soup, lima bean chili and barbecued limas, among other delicious menu items. It’s lima beans done all sorts of ways, just waiting to be enjoyed by an adoring public. If the food is not enough to keep you entertained, then surely the crowning of the honorary King and Queen of all things lima will give you a chuckle or two. This festival tradition entitles the royalty to a crown and who knows, probably a bowl of lima beans too. You can browse among a wealth of souvenirs, both lima and non-lima related, and enjoy a little music, a little fellowship, and a little old-fashioned fun reminiscent of a not-so-distant past.
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