TOMS RIVER, NJ – Very little good came out of the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns enforced by New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy. One of the few positives of the two-year-long assault on private businesses and restaurants by the state was outdoor dining.
While many towns have ceased outdoor dining as the pandemic restrictions have been lifted, business owners in Toms River are embracing it and hoping it is the key to boosting local businesses this summer.
Starting on Cinco De Mayo, May 6, Washington Street in Downtown Toms River will be closed to through traffic on Friday and Saturday nights as the outdoor area is transformed into an outdoor dining experience for local restaurants and breweries.
Each Friday and Saturday, the road will be closed between Main Street and Robbins Parkway from 5 pm to 9pm.
This weekend, a live Mariachi band will play from 12 pm to 5 pm.
The event is hosted by Downtown Toms River and sponsored by local businesses.