Ocean County’s Rich Barnegat Bay Traditions Take Center Stage This September

The Ocean County Board of Commissioners, together with Ocean County Parks & Recreation, is once again bringing one of the region’s most beloved heritage events to Tuckerton: the 44th Annual Old Time Barnegat Bay Decoy & Gunning Show. This two‑day celebration honors the deep cultural, environmental, and sporting traditions of the Barnegat Bay — from decoy carving and waterfowling history to family activities, live demonstrations, and heritage exhibits.

The event takes place Saturday, Sept. 26 (7 a.m.–5 p.m.) and Sunday, Sept. 27 (7 a.m.–4 p.m.) at Stanley H. “Tip” Seaman County Park and the Tuckerton Seaport, with FREE admission and FREE shuttle buses running between locations and off‑site parking areas.

🇺🇸 A Weekend Celebrating Barnegat Bay Traditions

Visitors can explore more than 200 exhibitors, including decoy carvers, hunting and fishing gear vendors, wildlife artists, antique collectors, and outdoor organizations. The show highlights the craftsmanship and culture that shaped coastal New Jersey — from traditional duck boats to historic gunning techniques.

The uploaded event poster confirms additional highlights such as:

• Bird of the Year: Northern Pintail
• Dock Dogs competitions
• New & antique decoys
• Hunting & fishing gear
• Duck boats & guide services
• Family activities, music & food
• Creek boat rides
• Demonstrations throughout both days

It also lists shuttle stops at Pinelands Regional High School, Tuckerton Seaport, and Freedom Fields County Park, with the event held rain or shine.

🎯 Contests & Demonstrations

More than 50 contests take place across both locations, including:

• Decoy carving (traditional, contemporary, youth, miniature, shorebird categories)
• Duck & goose calling, including the New Jersey State Duck Calling Championship with a cash prize for first place
• Decorative carving, art & photo contests
• Boat building & model boat competitions
• Hunting retriever contests
• Archery & skeet shooting from a sneakbox
• Youth contests and hands‑on crafts

Demonstrations include carving, gunning techniques, retriever skills, heritage presentations, and interactive family activities such as decoy painting and scavenger hunts.

🎶 Family Fun, Food & Local Culture

Live music, food trucks, heritage films, environmental exhibits, and hands‑on activities make this event a full‑day experience for families. Visitors can enjoy scenic Tuckerton Creek boat rides, browse wildlife art, or watch puppies and adult dogs compete in retrieving contests.

📍 Event Locations

Stanley H. “Tip” Seaman County Park 120 Lakeside Dr, Tuckerton, NJ 08087

Tuckerton Seaport & Baymen’s Museum 120 W Main St, Tuckerton, NJ 08087

🔗 Helpful Links

• Ocean County Parks & Recreation: https://www.oceancountyparks.org
• Ocean County Tourism: https://www.oceancountytourism.com
• Full 2026 Decoy Show Program Guide: (from Ocean County Government) https://www.co.ocean.nj.us//WebContentFiles//2fdb34a0-f96e-46cd-983d-dc5675467fa8.pdf
• Tuckerton Seaport: https://tuckertonseaport.org

🦆 Celebrate the Heritage of Barnegat Bay

Whether you’re a lifelong waterfowler, a decoy collector, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for a great family weekend, the Old Time Barnegat Bay Decoy & Gunning Show offers something for everyone. With free admission, free shuttles, and two full days of activities, it remains one of Ocean County’s most cherished annual traditions.

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