Ventnor is Calling: Your Unforgettable Memorial Day Weekend Is Finally Here!
Ventnor City is buzzing with anticipation as Memorial Day Weekend 2025 approaches—and we’ve pulled out all the stops to make it an unforgettable celebration. From sun-soaked beaches and heartfelt tributes to exhilarating community events and mouthwatering local eats, this holiday weekend is set to be a showstopper.
Whether you’re a local who calls Ventnor home or a visitor in search of an authentic Jersey Shore escape, Memorial Day Weekend is the perfect time to experience everything our vibrant city has to offer.
🌞 Sun, Sand, and Celebrations: Your Ventnor Memorial Day Lineup
Saturday, May 24th: Beach Bliss & Live Beats
Beach Opening Ceremony
📍 Suffolk Ave Beach | 🕙 10:00 AM – 10:15 AM
Start your weekend where the land meets the sea. The official Beach Opening Ceremony invites everyone to kick off the season with community spirit and sandy toes. This symbolic start celebrates the beginning of summer, fresh air, and good vibes. Be sure to stop by Ship Shop on Dorsett for sunscreen, beach toys, chairs, and more!
Kick-off Concert at Ski Beach
📍 Ski Beach | 🕡 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
As the sun dips behind the bay, join us for an open-air concert set to the rhythm of summer. Picture live music, a soft breeze, and waterfront views—pure magic as you sway into the night with friends, family, or someone special.
Sunday, May 25th: Honor, Community & Scenic Routes
Kenny Wayland Memorial Run
📍 Newport Ave | 🕘 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Join the community in remembering a hero. The Kenny Wayland Memorial Run honors Firefighter Kenneth Wayland, who tragically lost his life in the line of duty in 1972. Organized by Ventnor City Firefighters FMBA Local 38, this annual tradition supports the Kenneth Wayland Memorial Scholarship for local students.
The event includes:
- 5K Run
- 10K Run
- 1-Mile Walk
Routes feature scenic out-and-back paths and a beautiful boardwalk stroll. Packet pickup is available the day before and on race day at the Ventnor Community Building. Winners will be celebrated afterward at a special awards ceremony—an inspiring show of community pride and gratitude.
Monday, May 26th: Reflect and Remember
Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony
📍 City Hall Flagpole | 🕘 9:00 AM – 9:20 AM
Start your Monday with gratitude and remembrance. This brief but powerful ceremony honors the men and women who gave everything for our country. A moment of unity and reflection amidst a weekend of celebration.
🏖️ Beyond the Events: Embrace the Ventnor Vibe
Memorial Day in Ventnor is more than dates on a calendar. It’s a full-sensory experience that blends coastal charm with community spirit. Here’s how to make the most of your time here:
🐚 Beach Bliss
Our pristine shoreline invites you to unplug and recharge. Whether you’re building sandcastles, diving into the Atlantic, or simply relaxing with a cold drink and the ocean breeze, the beaches of Ventnor are calling. After a sun-soaked day, be sure to cool off with a refreshing water ice or an irresistible ice-cream cone from SunDaze, a true local favorite!
🏊 Poolside Paradise
Locals and renters alike can cool off in one of the many sparkling backyard pools scattered across Ventnor. Whether it’s a raucous cannonball contest or a mellow float with your favorite playlist, this is Jersey Shore living at its best.
🍔 Backyard BBQs & Gatherings
Nothing says Memorial Day like the smell of burgers and ribs sizzling on the grill. Stock up at local markets and fire up your backyard party. Pro tip: hit up Florida Cold Cuts for gourmet groceries, select wines, and epic sandwich fixings.
🚲 Boardwalk Strolls
Cruise along the iconic boardwalk on foot or by bike. Catch stunning ocean views, meet fellow beachgoers, or indulge in a scoop from North Beach Cafe & Creamery, home to homemade water ices and ice cream sandwiches that scream summer.
🍴 Good Eats by the Beach: A Foodie’s Paradise
Ventnor offers an impressive range of eateries perfect for any time of day. Here’s where to go for your next great bite:
🌅 Breakfast & Brunch
- Agnes Cafe – A cozy local spot with unbeatable pan-made omelets, fresh muffins, and daily specials.
- Hannah G’s – A Ventnor staple offering hearty breakfasts and healthy lunch options, including gluten-free and vegan delights.
- Isabella’s Ventnor Cafe – Start your day with classic American or Mexican breakfasts like Huevos Rancheros or Chilaquiles.
- The Queen Bean – Sip your morning brew while overlooking the ocean on the boardwalk.
☀️ Lunch Vibes
- Greens and Grains – Fresh, plant-based fast-casual dining that’s tasty, healthful, and planet-conscious.
- Di’s Dogs and Burgers – Classic beach food on wheels—hot dogs, burgers, and fries served with a smile.
- Florida Cold Cuts – Sandwiches that hit the spot plus curated market finds.
🌇 Dinner Destinations
- Aroma – Sophisticated yet fun, Aroma delivers exceptional dining with flair.
- Isabella’s at Night – BYOB and dive into soulful Mexican dishes like Mole and Chiles Rellenos.
- Martina’s Trattoria – Authentic Italian cuisine, wood-fired pizzas, and handcrafted pastas in a warm, family-style setting.
- Red Room Cafe – Homemade pastas, eggplant parm, and that real Italian hospitality.
🍨 Sweets & Treats
- Jagielky’s Homemade Candy – A Jersey Shore legacy offering small-batch, hand-crafted chocolates and confections.
- Sasscer’s Cheesecake – 40+ cheesecake flavors, decadent baked goods, and cupcake-cheesecake hybrids!
- SunDaze – SunDaze offers 32 flavors of hard ice cream, along with 32 varieties of homemade water ice, soft ice cream, frozen yogurt, and even vegan soft-serve. From creamy scoops to Belgian waffles and refreshing smoothies, there’s something here to satisfy every sweet tooth.
🍸 Nightlife & Evening Fun
- Nucky’s Kitchen and Speakeasy – A dual-level experience: elegant dining upstairs, prohibition-era vibes downstairs.
- Velo Cafe – Chic, casual, and perfect for date night or group dinners.
✨ Your Summer Starts in Ventnor
This Memorial Day Weekend, let Ventnor City be your escape, your playground, and your heartwarming reminder of what community and summer truly mean. Come for the events, stay for the sunshine, savor the food, and leave with memories that will carry you all season long.
We’ll see you on the sand. Welcome to summer in Ventnor!
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