SEASIDE HEIGHTS, N.J. – The boardwalk will be bursting with Italian pride, live music, and family fun this weekend as the Ocean County Columbus Day Parade Committee hosts its annual Italian Festival and Columbus Day Parade in Seaside Heights.
The three-day celebration kicks off Friday, October 10, with opening ceremonies and entertainment stretching from Grant Avenue to Ocean Terrace. Festivalgoers can expect a mix of traditional Italian performances, local favorites, and international acts — including I Canterini delle Riviera Jonica Melino Romolo from Roccalumera, Messina, Italy.
Crowds will also enjoy performances by The Cameos, Juke Box Legends, Patsy Palma, Bob Kulik, and Jimmy Bono Geany, who will perform throughout the weekend in the entertainment and dining tent.
Parade and performances highlight Sunday finale
The 34th Annual Ocean County Columbus Day Parade steps off at 1:00 p.m. Sunday, October 12, along The Boulevard, featuring marching bands, floats, cultural groups, and vintage cars. This year’s parade once again honors Italian-American heritage and the local community’s long-standing ties to the Jersey Shore.
The Sunday lineup also features Mia & Frank, Rancho Folclorico “Dança Na Eira”, and the ever-popular Strolling Metropolitan Festival Band. The festivities will close with a final performance by the Juke Box Legends at 5:30 p.m. on the Main Stage.
Tradition and community return to the Shore
The Ocean County Columbus Day Parade Committee has hosted the festival for more than three decades, combining cultural pride with seaside tradition. Organizers encourage visitors to arrive early for parking and to check local listings for potential schedule changes.
From Italian folk songs to classic cars and boardwalk fare, Seaside Heights will once again transform into a vibrant slice of Italy — a celebration of culture, community, and Jersey Shore spirit.