Food Festivals & Events in Monmouth County, NJ
Monmouth County's dining scene extends far beyond restaurants. Throughout the year, communities across the county host food festivals, culinary celebrations, restaurant showcases, food truck gatherings, and seasonal events that bring together local chefs, small businesses, breweries, wineries, and artisan food makers.
Whether you're spending a summer weekend along the Jersey Shore, exploring one of Monmouth County's walkable downtowns, or planning a family outing, these annual food-focused events offer a great way to experience the area's local flavor.
Spring Food Festivals
Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival
Held annually at Monmouth Park in Oceanport over Memorial Day Weekend, the Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival brings together dozens of food trucks representing cuisines from across New Jersey. Live entertainment, family activities, and horse racing make it one of the county's signature culinary weekends.
New Jersey Seafood Festival
Each May, the New Jersey Seafood Festival transforms downtown Belmar into a celebration of coastal cuisine. Visitors can sample fresh seafood from regional vendors while enjoying live entertainment, local artisans, and family-friendly activities just blocks from the beach.
Asbury Park Vegan Food Festival
Plant-based dining takes center stage during this annual festival featuring vegan restaurants, specialty vendors, cooking demonstrations, desserts, and lifestyle exhibitors. It has become one of New Jersey's largest events dedicated to plant-based cuisine.
asburyparkveganfoodfestival.com
Summer Culinary Events
Italian Festival & Wine Tasting at Monmouth Park
Hosted during the summer racing season, this annual event combines Italian food vendors, wine tastings, live entertainment, and horse racing in Oceanport. Visitors should confirm participating vendors and ticket information before attending.
Surf & Turf Seafood Festival
Another Monmouth Park favorite, this late-summer event features seafood, barbecue, and specialty food vendors, along with live music and family activities.
Red Bank Mac & Cheese Festival
Downtown Red Bank becomes a walkable tasting experience during this annual event, where participating restaurants serve creative macaroni and cheese dishes while visitors explore local shops and businesses throughout the downtown district. Tickets typically sell out in advance.
Cultural Festivals Featuring Food
Jersey Shore Greek Festival
Local Greek churches host annual festivals featuring authentic Greek cuisine, pastries, music, dancing, and family traditions. These events have become popular seasonal gatherings for both residents and visitors.
Ocean Township Italian Festival
Typically held during late summer, this community festival showcases Italian food vendors, live entertainment, local businesses, and family activities. Event details may vary each year.
Shore Events Worth Watching
Many Monmouth County festivals include outstanding food even when they're not exclusively culinary events. Keep an eye on annual celebrations such as:
- Long Branch Oceanfest
- Sea.Hear.Now Festival in Asbury Park
- Long Branch Jazz & Blues Festival
- Downtown Red Bank seasonal street fairs
- Atlantic Highlands Fireman's Fair
These events frequently feature local restaurants, food vendors, breweries, dessert makers, and specialty food businesses.
Share Your Favorite
Have a favorite Monmouth County food festival or annual culinary event? Tell us where you go each year, what you never miss eating, and why fellow locals should add it to their calendar.