TOMS RIVER, NJ – There’s great news for music lovers in Toms River and the surrounding region. Toms River Mayor Dan Rodrick today announced the township has doubled the number of free beachfront concerts and fireworks this summer, with one free concert on the beach in Ortley Beach.
“Last year’s concert series was extremely popular with residents and we had some great crowds, everyone loved it,” the mayor said. “This year, we were able to cut out the middlemen and book bands directly, allowing us to provide more free concerts and to include a kids’ concert series for all of the young families in Toms River.”
Rodrick said last year’s events were enjoyed by all ages as seniors were joined young families, teens, and young adults alike, noting that during the concerts many people docked their boats offshore, watching the concerts from a unique offshore perspective. In fact, he encourages boaters to pull up a spot this year and watch from the bay.
“It’s great to see the community coming together, and we’re hoping to break our attendance records this year,” the mayor added.
The Township Department of Recreation is preparing for another great season of live music as Mayor Rodrick and Toms River Recreation have announced the 2025 Summer Concert Series lineup, featuring free family-friendly performances at Shelter Cove and Ortley Beach throughout the summer.
The concerts kick off on June 24 at Shelter Cove (1390 Bay Avenue) with Mr. Ray, a children’s entertainer known for interactive performances that blend pop and rock styles, encouraging families to sing along. “Bring a blanket, bring a chair, and bring your family to enjoy food and live music,” officials said.
On July 1, also at Shelter Cove, Tupelo Honey, a Van Morrison tribute band, will take the stage. The performance coincides with a free fireworks show. Concertgoers can take advantage of alternate parking and complimentary shuttles from Toms River High School East from 6 to 10 p.m.
July performances feature local and tribute favorites
The summer continues with the Cigar Box Stompers on July 6. Known for their unique homemade instruments and blend of blues and Americana, the band is set to entertain with their distinct sound during the Sunday Summer Concert Series.
On July 15, The Amish Outlaws will perform as part of the Summer Tuesdays series, also featuring free fireworks. The group is recognized for their diverse covers and high-energy performances, often blending rock, pop, and country hits while dressed in their signature Amish attire.
Parrot Beach, a Jimmy Buffett tribute band, brings island vibes to Shelter Cove on July 27 as part of the Sunday Summer Concerts. Their tropical tunes are expected to draw a large crowd for a beach-inspired evening.
August closes the season with more fireworks and performances
August begins with Austin City Nights on August 5. This group delivers classic and modern country hits, promising a lively atmosphere for the Tuesday night show and fireworks.
British Invasion follows on August 10, delivering hits from legendary UK rock bands of the 1960s and ‘70s, recreating the sound and feel of the original British Invasion era for the Sunday crowd.
Wrapping up the Tuesday series on August 19 is The Benjamins, a modern rock and pop cover band known for their energetic stage presence and wide-ranging song list that appeals to all ages.
The series concludes on August 24 at Ortley Beach with The Infernos Band, billed as “America’s #1 Show Band.” Known for their polished performances and broad musical repertoire, The Infernos will close out the summer with a high-energy show.
All concerts begin at 7 p.m. Admission is free. Alcohol, pets, and smoking are prohibited. No parking is permitted on Bay Avenue and drones are not allowed. Weather-related cancellations will be posted on the Toms River Township Facebook page by noon on the day of the event
Toms River’s Summer Concert Series offers a full season of diverse music and entertainment for the community to enjoy at no cost.
