As summer winds down and the crowds thin out, September in Wildwood transforms into a magical time filled with festivals, fishing competitions, and cultural celebrations. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or looking for unique things to do in Wildwood September 2025, these seven events offer the perfect blend of local tradition and seaside fun that’ll have you booking your stay faster than you can say “shore thing!”
From the largest Irish festival on the East Coast to spectacular beachfront fireworks displays, September brings some of Wildwood’s most beloved annual events. And here’s the best part – many of these festivals are completely FREE, making them perfect for families, couples, and groups looking to experience authentic Jersey Shore culture without breaking the bank.
1. North Wildwood Rec. Dept. Surf Fishing Competition (September 5-7)
Kick off your September adventure at the 56th Annual Surf Fishing Competition, where anglers of all ages cast their lines for glory along North Wildwood’s pristine beaches. Registration happens at the Gazebo at 3rd & JFK Blvd., with a modest $15 participation fee that gets you access to three days of competitive fishing fun.
Event Details:
- When: Friday & Saturday: 7 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sunday: 7 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
- Where: North Wildwood beaches
- Cost: $15 participation fee
- Info: NorthWildwood.com
The tournament features both adult and youth divisions, making it a fantastic family activity. Pro tip: Book a morning boat tour with Sand Bar Joe’s to scout the best fishing spots from the water before the competition begins!
2. Downtown Wildwood Farmers Market (Every Saturday Through September 28)
While technically running all summer, the September farmers markets offer a special charm with late-season produce and fewer crowds. Located at Byrne Plaza (3400-3501 Pacific Avenue), this vibrant market features over 70 weekly vendors offering everything from fresh Jersey tomatoes to handmade soaps and local honey.
What You’ll Find:
- Fresh produce from local farms
- Artisan breads and baked goods
- Specialty foods like pickles, hot sauce, and craft spirits
- Handmade jewelry, candles, and gifts
- Live entertainment for kids
- FREE parking and admission
Hours: Saturdays 8 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Location: Downtown Wildwood
Perfect for stocking up on snacks before your afternoon cruise or finding unique souvenirs that actually support local artisans!
3. Sean Cullen Memorial: USA vs. Ireland Boxing (September 18)
Get ready for an electrifying night of international amateur boxing at Wildwood Catholic Academy! This high-energy event pits talented boxers from New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New York against Ireland’s renowned Crumlin Boxing Club – the same gym that trained UFC legend Conor McGregor.
Fight Night Details:
- Date: September 18, 2025
- Doors Open: 5:30 p.m.
- Venue: Wildwood Catholic Academy Gymnasium
- Features: 10 amateur boxing bouts
- Tickets: Available here
This event kicks off the Irish Fall Festival weekend and brings together boxing enthusiasts, Irish culture lovers, and sports fans for an unforgettable night of athletic competition and international camaraderie.
4. North Wildwood Irish Fall Festival (September 19-21)
The granddaddy of all Wildwood fall festivals, this three-day extravaganza transforms North Wildwood into a sea of green! As the largest Irish festival on the East Coast, it’s a non-stop celebration of Irish heritage featuring live music, traditional dancing, authentic food, and enough Guinness to make any leprechaun jealous.
Festival Highlights:
- Golf Tournament: Thursday at Cape May National Golf Club
- Street Festival: Friday-Sunday along Olde New Jersey Avenue
- Live Music: Multiple stages with bands from Ireland and the US
- Brian Riley Pipe Exhibition: Saturday at Bill Henfey Park
- Grand Parade: Sunday at 12:30 p.m. on Surf Avenue
- FREE Irish Dance Lessons: Saturday 10 a.m. – noon at Elks Lodge
- Catholic Mass: Sunday 10:30 a.m. at St. Ann’s Church
Info: CMCAOH.com
The festival features over 100 vendors, multiple beer gardens, and restaurants along Olde New Jersey Avenue staying open late. Book a sunset cruise with Sand Bar Joe’s on Friday evening to see the festival lights from the water!
5. Wildwood Crest Seafarers Celebration (September 20)
Saturday brings one of Wildwood Crest’s signature events – a full-day maritime celebration that honors the area’s rich seafaring heritage. Starting at 9 a.m. along Sunset Lake, this FREE festival offers something for everyone in the family.
Festival Features:
- Daytime (9 a.m. – 5 p.m.): Street festival along New Jersey Avenue from Rambler Road to Miami Avenue
- Evening (7 p.m.): Live music at Centennial Park
- Grand Finale (8:30 p.m.): Spectacular beachfront fireworks display
- Activities: Craft vendors, food trucks, children’s entertainment, live music
- Cost: FREE admission!
Location: Sunset Lake & Centennial Park
The Seafarers Celebration perfectly captures Wildwood’s maritime spirit. Consider booking an afternoon sandbar cruise to work up an appetite for all that delicious seafood!
6. Fall Restaurant Week August 24-28th
This year restaurant week is at the end of August where participating restaurants offer special prix fixe menus showcasing the best of Jersey Shore cuisine. This is the perfect opportunity to sample waterfront dining without the summer crowds.
What to Expect:
- Three-course prix fixe menus
- Special pricing (typically around $40 per person)
- Participating waterfront restaurants
- Fresh, local seafood specials
- Craft cocktail pairings
Check WildwoodsRestaurantWeek.com for the full list of participating restaurants.
7. Sand Bar Joe’s Irish Festival Weekend Sunset Cruises
Cap off your Irish Fall Festival experience with a special themed sunset cruise aboard Sand Bar Joe’s pontoon boats! During festival weekend (September 19-21), these 90-minute scenic cruises offer a unique perspective of the festivities while you enjoy the golden hour on Wildwood’s tranquil back bays.
Cruise Highlights:
- Departure Times: 5:30 p.m. daily during Irish Festival weekend
- Duration: 90 minutes of scenic cruising
- Route: Back bays with views of festival lights along the shoreline
- BYOB Policy: Bring your favorite Irish beverages aboard
- Capacity: Up to 6 passengers per boat (add 2 more for small fee)
- Special Touch: Green decorations and Irish music playlist
- Price: Standard 90-minute cruise rates
Book at: SandBarJoes.com
Captain Joe often shares stories about Wildwood’s Irish heritage while navigating past Sunset Lake and the festival areas. It’s the perfect way to experience the festival atmosphere without the crowds – imagine sipping a Guinness while watching the sunset paint the sky in shades of orange and green! Plus, September’s earlier sunsets (around 7 p.m.) mean you’ll be back in time to catch the evening festivities on land.
Make the Most of Your September Visit
Transportation Tips:
The Wildwoods Island Shuttle typically runs during major festivals, especially Irish Fall Festival weekend. The shuttle operates between festival areas and various points in North Wildwood for just $3 per person each way.
Where to Stay:
September offers some of the best hotel rates of the year. Book accommodations in North Wildwood to be walking distance from the Irish Festival, or choose Wildwood Crest for easy access to the Seafarers Celebration.
Insider Tip:
Book a private boat charter with Sand Bar Joe’s during festival weekends to escape the crowds while still enjoying views of the festivities from the water. Their 4-hour customizable tours can include stops at waterfront restaurants, giving you the best of both worlds!
Plan Your Perfect September Getaway
September in Wildwood offers the perfect combination of ideal weather, exciting events, and smaller crowds. Whether you’re drawn to the cultural celebrations of the Irish Fall Festival, the maritime charm of the Seafarers Celebration, or simply want to enjoy some of the year’s best beach days, these events showcase why Wildwood remains a beloved destination long after Labor Day.
Ready to experience these amazing September events from a unique perspective? Consider booking a scenic boat tour or sunset cruise to add an unforgettable element to your Wildwood adventure. After all, the best views of any festival are always from the water!
What’s your favorite Wildwood fall festival? Have you experienced any of these September events? Share your stories and tips in the comments below!
