The Annual Boardwalk Basketball Classic Tournament returns to the Wildwoods Convention Center ~ December 22-23 & 26-31

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THE WILDWOODS - Enjoy more than a week of hardcourt excitement and friendly team competition at one of the largest holiday coed high school basketball tournaments in the country.

The annual Boardwalk Basketball Classic returns to the Wildwoods Convention Center - Sunday and Monday, December 22-23, and Thursday, December 26 through Tuesday, December 31, for eight days of non-stop action!

The tournament will feature an impressive lineup of high school boys and girls basketball teams from South Jersey, the Delaware Valley and beyond, totaling approximately 1,000 competitors.

The tournament kicks off with a special Battle of the Boards high school basketball showcase event on Sunday and Monday, December 22-23. 

The Spirit Brands Holiday Cheer Festival takes place at the Wildwoods Convention Center ~ Saturday, December 14th

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THE WILDWOODS - The Spirit Brands Holiday Cheerleading Competition will be held at the Wildwoods Convention Center on Saturday, December 14 from 10 am to 5 pm. Be amazed by the feats of these young athletes as they perform incredible stunts and entertainment cheer routines!

The competition takes place during the Family Holiday Celebration in the Wildwoods Convention Center. This offers teams the opportunity to enjoy a unique and festive weekend competing and enjoying holiday fun. In the spirit of the holiday season, the Spirit Brands Festival will include awards for the Best Themed Teams, Most Festive Fans and Ugliest Christmas Sweaters on coaches.

This entertaining and exciting event will feature teams from all ages, divisions and types: Rec Star, All Star, Prep, Novice, Traditional Rec, School, Club, College and Dance.

All performances will be choreographed to music and sound effects, and the winning teams will be awarded prizes. Teams will compete on a spring floor and will perform incredible stunts in hopes of winning the judges' votes.

Times are subject to change. An admission fee will be charged at the door the day of the event.

For more information, visit www.SpiritBrands.org or call 866-522-4337.

For additional information about the Wildwoods, visit www.WildwoodsNJ.com or call 800-992-9732.

Wildwood Beach Patrol Junior Lifeguard saves classmate from choking

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WILDWOOD - In a heartwarming display of bravery, 13-year-old Billy Carberry, an 8th grader at Our Lady of Calvary School in Northeast Philadelphia, rushed to the aid of his Pre-K classmate, Christopher, who was choking during lunchtime on Thursday, October 23.

Billy noticed Christopher was waving his hands in distress and his face was red. Billy knew he was choking and leapt into action, performing the Heimlich maneuver on Christopher, and a piece of fruit leather dislodged enabling the boy to breathe again.

When asked about the experience, Billy admitted he felt scared but was determined not to show it.

“I didn’t want Christopher to be scared,” he said. His quick thinking and composure under pressure undoubtedly made a significant difference during a frightening moment.

Billy's knowledge of the life-saving technique comes from his training as a Junior Lifeguard with the Wildwood Beach Patrol, a program he has participated in for several summers as a summer resident of Wildwood, NJ.

“I learned a lot about safety and how to help others,” he explained. 

The incident has drawn praise from teachers and parents alike, who commend Billy's courage and readiness to act. Wildwood Beach Patrol Captain Ed Schneider commended Billy's heroic efforts with an award recognizing his bravery and quick-thinking assistance to the boy.

"A great deal of credit goes to Junior Lifeguard Instructor Jack Rauchut and his team for teaching junior lifeguards how to recognize situations," said Schneider. "Billy is a kid who paid attention and prevented a critical incident."

East Lynne Theater Co. awards scholarship to Wildwood High student

Wildwood High School student Eric Miranda was presented with the East Lynne Theater Young Artist Scholarship by East Lynne Theater Company's Artistic Director Craig Fols. Miranda, an actor, singer and role model, will play the Grinch in the school's winter show.

Freshmen Eric Miranda presented with $500 East Lynne Theater Young Artist Scholarship

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CAPE MAY, NJ - East Lynne Theater Company recently presented the East Lynne Young Artist Scholarship to Eric Miranda, a freshman at Wildwood High School. The $500 scholarship was awarded to Miranda at a special event where Wildwood High School students attended a matinee/workshop performance of "Tales of Mystery and Suspense."

Incepted in 2006 and formerly called the Historic Jackson Street Neighborhood Scholarship Fund, the East Lynne Theater Young Artist Scholarship is awarded annually by East Lynne Theater Co. to a student with a passion for theater, either on stage or backstage, who wishes to pursue some aspect of the entertainment industry as a carrer.

This includes those in high school, college and recent graduates.

Miranda, who lives in Wildwood, is an actor, singer and musician, and has been an integral part of the Wildwood Waqve after-school theater program since he was in grade school. He is a beloved and acclaimed performer who has received accolades for being innovative and always willing to help, as well as being a trusted role model.

Miranda's roles include: Shrek (and other various roles) in "Shrek, The Musical Jr. (film); Maui in "Moana Jr.;" Genie in "Aladdin Jr.;" and Grandpa in "Willy Wonka Jr." He continues to pursue acting and music now that his is in high school and will appear as the Grinch in the high school's upcoming winter play. 

"We were really thrilled to be able to present Eric with the East Lynne Artist Scholarship this year," said Sally Bingham, education director at East Lynne. "He 100 percent epitomizes what this scholarship is all about: a student with a real appetite for theater as a career and a role model to others. We're looking forward to seeing what Eric accomplishes in the future."

East Lynne also provides scholarships to Cape May Cares, a non-profit "creating and funding educational and community programs to help improve the everyday lives and enhance future opportunities for children," to attend the theater company's Student Workshops that are run by Bingham each summer.

East Lynne Theater Co. is located at 500 Hughes Street in Cape May. More information can be found at EastLynneTheater.org.

About East Lynne Theater Company

Founded in 1980, East Lynne Theater Company (ELTC) was the first theater in the country with the unique mission of presenting and preserving America's theatrical heritage. The New York Times listed ELTC as one of the 75 top summer theaters in North America. In 2018, the New Jersey Senate and General Assembly passed a joint legislative resolution recognizing ELTC as "one of the state's most important cultural treasures."

Crest Arts Pavilion to host presentation on Female Pioneers of STEM

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WILDWOOD CREST - The Crest Arts Pavilion will host a free presentation of "Nevertheless, She Persisted," a program that will highlight female pioneers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), on Friday, November 1 at 10 am.

The presentation will focus on the underrepresentation of women in STEM, many of whom could not find employment in their desired field after obtaining a STEM education. Many of these women took positions in colleges and universities, where their research and discoveries were often attributed to their male counterparts.

The presentation will discuss how these women persisted and paved the way for those who followed.

Jason Aldean announced as second headliner for Barefoot Country Music Fest 2025

Country superstar joins Lainey Wilson for 5-Year Anniversary event!

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WILDWOOD - Barefoot Country Music Fest (BCMF) announces Jason Aldean as the second headliner for the 2025 festival, joining Lainey Wilson in what is shaping up to be the biggest BCMF to date. 

Set for June 19-22, 2025, on the scenic beaches of Wildwood, NJ, BCMF will celebrate its 5-year anniversary with over 40 artists across five stages. 

After nearly 15 years at the top of the country music world, reigning ACM “Artist of the Decade” Jason Aldean continues to dominate the charts and arenas across the country. Known for his signature blend of country and rock, Aldean has become a trailblazer, helping bring hard rock (“Hicktown”), hip-hop (“Dirt Road Anthem”), and R&B (“Burnin’ It Down”) to the country mainstream. 

Run the scenic Wildwoods Boardwalk at sunrise for the 5 Mile Beach Half Marathon, 10K & 5K on Saturday, November 2nd

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THE WILDWOODS - The 5 Mile Beach Half Marathon, 10K & 5K is set to take place just after sunrise on Saturday, November 2 in the Wildwoods. Runners will enjoy a flat and scenic route as races are on the Boardwalk from Wildwood Crest to North Wildwood, and back!

This event is open to all ages and offers a variety of race options for any level of runner to enjoy. The Half Marathon begins at 8 am, followed by the 5K at 8:15 am and the 10K at 9:15 am. 

For those looking for a challenge, the Combo 5K & 10K is available.

Runners will complete the 5K race and then jump back to the starting line for the 10K race. Walkers and families are welcome to participate. An inflatable finish line arch will be waiting for all runners, along with food and drinks post-race.

Lainey Wilson to headline 2025 Barefoot Country Music Fest

ACM's 2024 Entertainer of the Year set to perform at BCMF's 5-Year Anniversary

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WILDWOOD - The Barefoot Country Music Fest (BCMF) is excited to announce Lainey Wilson as a headliner for the 2025 festival, scheduled for June 19-22, 2025.

Wilson, who recently took home Female Artist of the Year and top prize of Entertainer of the Year at the 2024 Academy of Country Music Awards, is set to deliver a show-stopping performance on Wildwood's iconic beach.

Wilson has rapidly gained recognition in the country music world, becoming one of Nashville's most celebrated talents. Known for her unique "Bell Bottom Country" sound, which blends traditional country with modern influences, Wilson has captivated audiences worldwide. 

Her platinum PLATINUM Certified ACM Song of the Year, "Things A Man Oughta Know," and the chart-topping "Never Say Never" collaboration with Cole Swindell, and her hit single "Heart Like a Truck" are just a few highlights from her growing catalog.

On August 23, 2024, Wilson released her fifth studio album, Whirlwind, featuring the lead single "Hang Tight Honey." The album further solidifies her status as one of the genre's most dynamic and innovative artists. 

BCMF 2025: A Milestone Celebration

Relive the music and magic of the 50's, 60's & 70's in the Wildwoods - October 18 & 19

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THE WILDWOODS - Get ready to travel back in time with a night of unforgettable music at the Oceanfront Arena inside the Wildwoods Convention Center!

The Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce presents the 20th Annual 50's, 60's & 70's Weekend on Friday, October 18 and Saturday, October 19 in the Wildwoods, New Jersey. This two-day extravaganza celebrates the iconic eras of the 1950's and beyond, while also honoring the pivotal role the Wildwoods playing in the birth of Rock 'n Roll music.

The weekend kicks off on Friday night, October 18 inside the Wildwoods Convention Center with a 50's Dance Party featuring The Cameos, who will have you dancing the night away to classic oldies. The Dance Party, reminiscent of the Sock Hops of the 50's and 60's, takes place 6:30 - 10:30 pm and admission is $20 per person. 

Saturday, October 19 will feature a full day of outdoor fun and music during the FREE Street Fair at Fox Park, located across from the Wildwoods Convention Center on Ocean Avenue, from 11 am to 5 pm. The Street Fair will include live entertainment throughout the day featuring the great sounds of the 50's, 60's and 70's with Animal House, Living Proof and The Deck Band performing.

Enjoy a variety of vendors offering memorabilia, merchandise, many delicious food options and much more. A classic car show will be held at the circle in front of the Wildwoods Convention Center across from Fox Park from 9 am to 3 pm.

The highlight of the weekend is the 50's, 60's and 70's Concert taking center stage at the Oceanfront Arena in the Wildwoods Convention Center on Saturday, October 19 at 7 pm. This star-studded musical lineup features Mr. Frankie Avalon performing hits like "Venus," "Why," "I'll Wait for You" and "Beauty School Drop Out."

Phase VI of Wildwood Boardwalk Renovation Project scheduled to begin in early October

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WILDWOOD – The City of Wildwood is pleased to announce the award for Phase VI of the Boardwalk Renovation Project, which encompasses the area from Spicer Avenue to Montgomery Avenue. The bid was awarded to Fred M. Schiavone in the amount of $4,173,387.01.

Over the past four years, the Wildwood Boardwalk has undergone significant renovations, primarily focusing on restoring the aging wooden sections and improving its structural integrity.

Beginning in 2020, the multi-phase project aimed to replace worn-out decking and concrete tram pads, addressing decades of wear and tear. By 2024, Phase V of the project had been completed, revitalizing large stretches of the iconic 2-mile-long promenade.

The renovations also include improved amenities like lighting, bike racks and railings.

The Wildwoods celebrate American racing heritage during "The Race of Gentlemen" Vintage Car & Motorcycle Beach Drag Races ~ October 4-6

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THE WILDWOODS - Experience the exciting thrill of drag racing on the beach during "The Race of Gentlemen" (TROG) Vintage Car & Motorcycle Beach Drag Races, an automotive spectacle that celebrates American racing heritage and is an homage to automobile and motorcycle history - Friday, October 4 through Sunday, October 6.

Shultz & Son Productions presents "The Race of Gentlemen," which features pre-1934 cars and pre-1947 motorcycles racing along the water's edge on the Wildwoods' spacious beaches.

"The Race of Gentlemen," or TROG for short, is a one-of-a-kind event that brings together the finest vintage vehicles and their fearless drivers for a thrilling display of speed, skill and style. Feel the rumble of the engines and the excitement in the air as participants push their classic machines to the limit.

The popular event pays tribute to a style of racing that evokes a bygone era, when hand-built, pre-WWII cars and motorcycles were pieced together in backyards and garages, then tested and proven in races on the flat stretches of hard sand of the beach, closest to the water's edge.

The return of TROG in the Wildwoods will feature thrilling, non-stop, exhibition-style beach racing, live music, a kids' area, food and beer vendors, and much more. 

The Wildwoods host 18th Annual Olde Time Italian Festival - September 27-28

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THE WILDWOODS - The vibrant and flavorful traditions of Italy will once again come alive at the Olde Italian Festival - Friday, September 27 and Saturday, September 28 at Fox Park in Wildwood.

Hosted by the Sons of Italy Wildwood, this 18th annual celebration promises to transport attendees to the heart of Italy with a weekend full of mouthwatering cuisine, lively entertainment and cultural experiences.

The event will be held at Fox Park, located on Ocean Avenue between Burk and Montgomery Avenues, across from the Wildwoods Convention Center. The festival begins on Friday from 5 to 11 pm and continues on Saturday from noon to 11 pm.

The FREE two-day festival celebrates Italian culture and heritage with Italian crafts, authentic Italian cuisine, kids' games, contests and continuous FREE live entertainment!

Wildwood Crest hosts Run the Crest - "Come to run and stay for the fun" on Saturday, October 5th

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THE WILDWOODS - Run the Crest is a day filled with races and fun, outdoor festivities in Wildwood Crest on Saturday, October 5.

The event features a variety of races for all levels of runners seeking the best of what Wildwood Crest has to offer!

Runners will pass bayside lakes, causeways, fishing ports, wildlife reserves, ocean views and bike paths for a one-of-a-kind experience. Post-race festivities include merchandise vendors, food trucks, live entertainment and family fun in Centennial Park, located at E. Fern Road & Ocean Avenue.

Experience different cultures at the Hispanic Heritage Celebration in the Wildwoods ~ Saturday, September 28th

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THE WILDWOODS - The 2nd Annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration - "La Fiesta Hispana" - will be held on Saturday, September 28 from 3 pm to 8 pm at Byrne Plaza (3400 Pacific Avenue) in Downtown Wildwood.

The Hispanic Heritage Celebration gives visitors and locals a chance to experience different cultures and build positive relationships. Enjoy live entertainment by DJ Chino, a live band and a student showcase. Taste Hispanic cuisine and desserts made by chefs from local restaurants. Be sure to explore the unique vendors offering Latin crafts, creations and specialty items.

The Hispanic Heritage Celebration is presented by the Right to Unite Organization, established to plan and promote more opportunities for people in the community to unite and get to know each other, both personally and through the sharing of cultures.

For more information about the Hispanic Heritage Celebration, call 609-374-0872.

For additional information about the Wildwoods, visit www.WildwoodsNJ.com or call 800-992-9732.

Monster Truck Races rumble onto the Wildwoods Beaches ~ September 27-28

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THE WILDWOODS – Brace yourselves for a spine-tingling, earth-shaking weekend as the Monsters on the Beach Monster Truck Races rev their engines and return to the Wildwood’s Beach on Friday, September 27 and Saturday, September 28. 

Presented by Renegade Monster Truck Tour, this adrenaline-pumping spectacle promises a thrilling experience for monster truck enthusiasts and families alike. The “Monsterous” weekend begins on Friday with Monsters on Main Street. Each of the 8 Renegade Monster Trucks will be on display in Wildwood Crest from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. before they fire up and parade through Wildwood Crest. 

Saturday consists of two shows – the afternoon performance begins at 12:30 p.m. and the evening performance begins at 7 p.m. Both take place on the beach at Schellenger Avenue in Wildwood. Admission starts at $25 for adults and $12 for children 12 and younger. Gates open 2-1/2 hours before each performance.