Atlantic County, NJ — Drivers heading to the Jersey Shore for Memorial Day weekend will get a free ride Friday afternoon as Chickie’s & Pete’s once again covers tolls on the Atlantic City Expressway during its annual “Free Toll Friday” kickoff event.
The South Jersey Transportation Authority and Chickie’s & Pete’s announced that all eastbound tolls at the Egg Harbor Toll Plaza will be paid from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, May 22, offering a break to thousands of travelers expected to flood shore routes ahead of the holiday weekend.
The annual promotion marks the unofficial start of the summer season on one of New Jersey’s busiest shore corridors.
Crabfries, Car Show and Summer Celebration Planned at Farley Plaza
Before tolls go free, Chickie’s & Pete’s and the SJTA will host a daylong “100 Days of Summer” celebration from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Frank S. Farley Service Plaza along the Atlantic City Expressway in Hammonton.
Visitors can grab complimentary orders of Chickie’s & Pete’s signature Crabfries while browsing an outdoor car show and more than 70 participating organizations, vendors, artists, and exhibitors.
The event also features appearances from the Funny Farm animal rescue sanctuary, the New Jersey State Police K9 team, Atlantic City International Airport fire and rescue crews, and local businesses including Johnson’s Popcorn and Lucy the Elephant.
“Free Toll Friday is one of my favorite summertime traditions,” Chickie’s & Pete’s Chairman and CEO Pete Ciarrocchi said in a statement. “We’re excited to be back at Farley Plaza hosting one of our favorite annual events this year. We love to send everyone off to the shore in good spirits before a big holiday weekend.”
Key Points
• Chickie’s & Pete’s will pay eastbound Atlantic City Expressway tolls Friday from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• The free toll event takes place at the Egg Harbor Toll Plaza during Memorial Day weekend travel.
• A summer kickoff festival at Farley Plaza includes free Crabfries, live attractions, and family activities.
Heavy Jersey Shore Travel Expected for Holiday Weekend
Memorial Day weekend traditionally signals the start of the busy summer tourism season across the Jersey Shore, with major increases in traffic along the Atlantic City Expressway, Garden State Parkway, and coastal routes.
South Jersey Transportation Authority Executive Director Stephen F. Dougherty said the annual event is designed to create a festive atmosphere for travelers making their way toward shore destinations.
“We’re excited to kick off our annual 100 Days of Summer celebration and welcome travelers passing through Hammonton on their way to their favorite Jersey Shore destination,” Dougherty said. “This year’s festivities offer something for everyone.”
Families attending the event can also visit a Sidewalk Chalk Fun Zone, pet rescue displays, and emergency vehicle exhibits from local agencies.
Memorial Day Event Also Supports Veterans Charity
Chickie’s & Pete’s said the event also highlights its partnership with The Patriot Fund, a nonprofit organization supporting military veterans and their families transitioning to civilian life.
The restaurant chain announced that a portion of proceeds from its “Patriot Punch” cocktail throughout the summer will benefit the organization.
Ciarrocchi said the timing of the event during Memorial Day weekend carries personal significance because of his family’s military background.
“My Dad and my Uncles were all in the military,” he said. “In fact, my Uncle George, who was my restaurant mentor, won the Silver Star for bravery.”
Officials expect heavy traffic volumes throughout Friday afternoon as shore-bound travelers begin arriving for the long holiday weekend.
