JACKSON – Jackson Day 2026 is coming up soon and it will mark the event’s half century anniversary of fun, food and township history.
The big community celebration isn’t waiting for autumn this year; it will run from 12:30 to 8:30 p.m. on August 23, with a rain date of August 30 at John F. Johnson Jr. Memorial Park, 260 Kierych Memorial Drive.
There will be free admission, free parking and free events along with entertainment. A variety of food trucks will be on hand. Expect vendors to be local businesses, houses of worship, and other organizations.
Township Recreation Department and Special Event Coordinator Fred Meabe told The Jackson Times, that there would be some changes in the lineup from years past. “There will be no doves, motorcycle show, or petting zoo this year but we have done so much more. We have modernized this event from years past.”
“I have gotten Six Flags to have a much larger footprint in this year’s event,” Meabe added.
The Fright Fest feature will provide an exclusive behind-the-scenes look as the Fright Fest zombies who transform into the terrifying ghouls that roam the walkways of Six Flags each autumn. “Watch the make-up artists work their magic and see these iconic characters come to life right before your eyes plus Six Flags Wild Safari is coming too. Meet some incredible animal ambassadors during the Wild Safari Critter Interaction, a fun, hands-on experience the whole family will love.”
“Here’s the biggest news of all: every child 12 years old and under who attends Jackson Day will receive a free Great Adventure admission ticket, courtesy of Six Flags,” Meabe added.
He noted that “radio station, 94.3 The Point will be on location broadcasting live with Matt Ryan and will have some giveaways. This year we have a gift auction run by Jackson Township High School Football to strengthen that relationship with the town and the schools and to keep adults more engaged.”
“We have an all-day basketball tournament hosted and organized by the Porter Family Scholarship Foundation. Through our time and efforts, we have raised the most money and gathered the most sponsors Jackson Day has ever had, which is fitting as its the 50th Celebration of this amazing event! It is my belief that hard work will pay off on event day,” Meabe said.
Three live bands will perform at set times. “It’s going to be an amazing day,” Meabe added. He previously ran the Township Police Department’s PBA 168 Pig Roast for years and that experience helped him to prepare for this larger scale event. “I couldn’t have done it without the amazing team I have.” Meabe serves as the chairman of this year’s Jackson Day Committee
He provided a list of activities for the day. Musical performances include Kickin’ Wing from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., Face 2 Face from 4 to 5:30 p.m., Suit & Mai Tai, an extremely popular shore area Yacht Rock band, will be from 6 to 7:30 p.m. DJ JPro will be providing music throughout the day.
A Beer Garden sponsored by Jackson PBA 168 will be back and there will also be a 3-on-3 basketball tournament and the Bloodline Cornhole Tournament will also return.
Meabe said there would be over 100 vendors and plenty of family fun, attractions, food, entertainment, and much more.
Mayor Jennifer Kuhn and the Township Council are inviting the whole community to enjoy this annual township tradition and gather in the park that day. They want you to enjoy a day filled with local vendors, crafters, civic organizations, delicious food and much more.
