BERKELEY – After a year of cancelled events, a glimmer of hope is shining.
Plans are being made for a variety of recreational events this spring and summer. During a recent Township Council meeting, officials agreed to certain events. The township doesn’t run all of the following events, but they have to approve the use of the township’s facilities.
The word “tentative” was used a lot. These events were all approved with the understanding that the coronavirus pandemic could spike and cause the state to shut down large, outdoor gatherings again.
State safety precautions will be followed at all these events.
Ocean County Fair
The Ocean County Fair was cancelled last year as state regulations prevented the large annual event.
It is currently scheduled for July 14-18, at its usual location: the Robert J. Miller Airpark in Berkeley.
The fair will have a ride vendor, concert schedule, food, entertainment, and more. Details about the line-up will be published as the event draws closer.
Sounds of Summer
The Sounds of Summer free concert series is scheduled throughout the summer. While normally the concerts are open to anyone, this year it will likely only be open to Berkeley residents unless limits on outside gatherings are relaxed. As of right now, the schedule includes:
On June 23, the township will host Jukebox Legends at 6 p.m. and AM Gold at 7:30 p.m. The location is Veterans Park.
On July 7, there will be Gerard Esposito and Independence Day fireworks. The location is Veterans Park.
On July 17, the beach party will be held on 23rd Avenue in South Seaside Park featuring Verdict.
On August 4, Rock N Rhythm and Super Trans Am will perform. The location is Veterans Park.
September 11 will be the township’s 20th annual Community Pride Day. Stiletto and the Sax Man will perform, as will New Power Soul. The location is Veterans Park. The township always holds a remembrance ceremony on that day for the attacks on September 11, 2001.
The concert series is free entertainment paid for by sponsors and the Mayor’s Golf Outing. They also provide an opportunity for local nonprofits, like scouts or emergency services, to sell food as a fundraiser.
More information will be published as these events draw closer.
Soulsational
The annual Soulsational Festival is returning to Veterans Park on July 31. The free event opens at 11 a.m. and is known for promoting a variety of health, wellness, and fitness options.
People of all ages can find something they’re looking for, including arts, crafts, yoga, demonstrations, healthy food options, food trucks, vendors, workshops, silent auctions, paint party, poets, a kids village, and free classes.
The organizers state that this will be a smaller event, like last year, which stays true to the mission of “commUNITY” while still keeping people safe. The open-air market is designed with a 6-feet space between vendors. Activities will be following state guidelines.
More information will be made available as the date approaches.
