From beachside fireworks to high-energy tribute bands, Toms River is once again turning Shelter Cove Beach into one of the Jersey Shore’s premier summer destinations.
TOMS RIVER, N.J. — Summer at the Jersey Shore wouldn’t be complete without live music, fireworks and evenings along the water, and Toms River is bringing all three together as Mayor Daniel Rodrick and the Toms River Recreation Department launch another season of the township’s popular Summer Concert Series.
Despite efforts by Council President David Ciccozzi and councilmembers Tom Nivison, Clint Bradley, and Robert Bianchini’s failed attempts to defund the celebration, the show will go.
“We’re not in the entertainment business,” Ciccozzi said.
But it appears the township is in the entertainment business, because the funding was approved by the same township council members who say they are now against it.
Mayor Rodrick isn’t letting the grumps on the town council rain on the summer-long celebration that includes concerts and a June 30th America 250th celebration.
Held at Shelter Cove Beach, the free concert series features a lineup packed with crowd-favorite tribute acts, classic rock, country hits, Motown favorites, and family-friendly entertainment. Several performances will conclude with fireworks displays over the water, creating one of the Shore’s most anticipated summer traditions.
For residents and visitors alike, Tuesday nights at Shelter Cove have become a summertime staple.
Key Points
• Toms River’s Summer Concert Series returns to Shelter Cove Beach with free weekly performances.
• Multiple concerts will feature fireworks displays after the show.
• The lineup includes Amish Outlaws, Garden State Radio, Austin City Nights, Super 70’s Rock Show and more.
A Jersey Shore summer tradition
Set against the backdrop of the Toms River waterfront, Shelter Cove Beach has become one of Ocean County’s most popular summer gathering spots.
Families bring lawn chairs and blankets, children play along the shoreline, and thousands gather to enjoy live music as the sun sets over the bay. The addition of fireworks following select concerts has helped transform the series into a major regional attraction.
This year’s lineup offers something for virtually every musical taste.
Amish Outlaws kick off the season
The series opens June 23 with the wildly popular Amish Outlaws, a band known throughout the Northeast for blending humor, storytelling, and an eclectic mix of classic rock, country, and pop favorites.
The group has built a loyal following thanks to its unique stage show and energetic performances that often have audiences dancing from the first song to the last.
The opening-night concert will also feature fireworks following the performance.
America 250 celebration highlights June schedule
Austin City Nights takes the stage June 30 as part of a special America 250 celebration.
Known for performing modern country hits and Southern rock favorites, the band has become a favorite at festivals and outdoor concert venues across the region. Organizers expect one of the largest crowds of the summer for the patriotic celebration.
Garden State Radio brings festival energy
One of the most anticipated performances arrives July 7 when Garden State Radio returns to Shelter Cove.
The New Jersey-based group is known for its festival-style atmosphere and wide-ranging setlist covering everything from classic rock and dance hits to contemporary favorites. Their concerts often feature audience participation and high-energy performances that keep crowds engaged throughout the evening.
Fireworks are also scheduled following the show.
Classic rock, yacht rock and Motown on tap
The summer lineup continues with a variety of themed performances designed to appeal to multiple generations.
The Infernos take over July 14 with a blend of oldies, dance favorites and party classics. Super 70’s Rock Show arrives July 21, bringing iconic hits from one of music’s most celebrated decades.
Fans of smooth rock and summer vibes can look forward to Epic Yacht Rock Party on July 28, featuring the soft rock favorites that dominated radio stations during the late 1970s and early 1980s.
In August, audiences can enjoy performances by Tupelo Honey, The Benjamins, 80’s Revolution, Jukebox Legends and Mushmouth before the season concludes with Dr. K’s Motown on Sept. 1.
Several of those performances will also feature fireworks displays after the show.
Full concert schedule
• June 23 — Amish Outlaws*
• June 30 — Austin City Nights (America 250 Celebration)
• July 7 — Garden State Radio*
• July 14 — Infernos
• July 21 — Super 70’s Rock Show*
• July 28 — Epic Yacht Rock Party
• Aug. 5 — Tupelo Honey*
• Aug. 11 — The Benjamins
• Aug. 18 — 80’s Revolution*
• Aug. 20 — Jukebox Legends
• Aug. 25 — Mushmouth
• Sept. 1 — Dr. K’s Motown*
*Fireworks immediately following the performance.
The place to be this summer
With free admission, waterfront views, nationally recognized tribute acts and fireworks lighting up the sky over Shelter Cove Beach, Toms River’s Summer Concert Series continues to be one of the biggest summer attractions along the Jersey Shore.
Whether you’re a lifelong resident or visiting Ocean County for the season, Shelter Cove Beach is shaping up to be one of the hottest destinations on the Shore this summer.