Sailfest NJ Returns to Island Heights — A Full Day of Waterfront Fun, Food & Family Festivities
Labor Day Weekend Brings Food, Music and Festivities to Ocean County
September 4, 2026
Sip, Sun & Shore: Wine on the Beach Returns to Seaside Heights!
September 4, 2026Sailfest NJ Returns to Island Heights — A Full Day of Waterfront Fun, Food & Family Festivities
ISLAND HEIGHTS, NJ — The Rotary of Toms River is bringing back one of Ocean County’s most anticipated waterfront events — Sailfest New Jersey — on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 10 AM to 10 PM at the Island Heights Pavilion & Bayfront.
This free, all‑day festival celebrates community spirit with live music, sailing races, 130+ vendors, food trucks, artists, crafters, and family activities — all set against the stunning backdrop of the Toms River bayfront.
⚓ Event Highlights
- ⛵ Sailing Races on the river
- 🛍️ 130+ Vendors featuring crafts, goods, and local businesses
- 🎨 Artists & Crafters showcasing handmade creations
- 🧒 Kids Zone for family fun
- 🎶 Live Music all day and evening
- 🎟️ Cash 50/50 supporting Rotary community programs
🍴 Don’t Miss These Fantastic Food Vendors
Sailfest NJ is a foodie’s paradise — with flavors from across the Shore and beyond. Here’s a taste of what’s cooking:
| Vendor | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Simply Sofrito | Empanadas (meat, vegetarian, vegan) and more |
| Palleschi’s Neapolitan Pizza | Authentic wood‑fired pizza perfection |
| Umberto’s | Clams, salads, eggplant parm, kabobs, meatball sandwiches, corn, cannoli’s & more |
| House of Fudge | Shrimp, calamari, crab, fish & chips, kabobs, waffles, ice cream, desserts |
| Frezys | Fried ravioli, pickles, churros, cheese sticks, fries, kettle corn & more |
| J&J | Teriyaki BBQ skewers, sandwiches, shakes, lemonade & more |
| Carni Bros | Hot dogs, burgers, cheesesteaks, fries, funnel cake, fried Oreos, lemonade & more |
| Fit Chicks | Sandwiches, salads, quesadillas, nachos |
| Cuphead Coffee | Fresh brews and specialty drinks |
| We So Korny Kettle Korn | Sweet and salty kettle corn |
| Island Heights Fire Dept | Classic sausage sandwiches |
| JG Desserts | Donuts, cookies, cupcakes & pastries |
| Toms River Rotary | Water, beer, wine* (*Beer/Wine purchase requires ID check at either gate for wristband compliance with NJ law) |
| Sweet Carolina Barbecue | Brisket, pulled pork, chicken, smoked ribs |
📍 Event Details
- Date: Saturday, September 12, 2026
- Time: 10 AM – 10 PM
- Location: Island Heights Pavilion & Bayfront, Island Heights, NJ
- Admission: Free
🔗 Helpful Links
- Official Website: https://sailfestnj.com/
- About Sailfest: https://sailfestnj.com/about/
- Full Schedule: https://sailfestnj.com/schedule/
🌅 A Waterfront Tradition
Hosted by the Rotary of Toms River, Sailfest NJ is one of the largest charity events in Ocean County, raising funds for scholarships and local community programs. Each year, thousands gather to enjoy the waterfront atmosphere, support local vendors, and celebrate the best of the Jersey Shore.
