SOMERS POINT — Residents of this seaside city get together after Labor Day each year to celebrate the end of the tourism season, which floods the area with traffic and people for months. It’s like a return to normalcy when old friends can get together after a busy season.
This year the city will host its 45th annual Good Old Days Festival from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6.
“It gives us an opportunity to get together just before summer closes out and re-engage with our neighbors and old friends,” Mayor Dennis Tapp.
Organized by the Good Old Days Festival Committee in partnership with the Somers Point Historical Society, the event draws thousands of residents and visitors each year to John F. Kennedy Memorial Park overlooking Great Egg Harbor Bay.
There will be antique cars on display, as well as children’s entertainment including carnival games, face painting, inflatables, a magician, ventriloquist and foot races.
In addition, there will be more than 25 vendors and community groups offering crafts, food and activities. The crowd-pleasing $1 hot dogs and hamburgers will once again be available fresh from the grill.
Free live music from local performers will liven up the atmosphere from noon to 6 p.m. This year’s lineup includes performances by The Turtle Heads, The Notion and Plaid Salmon.
“These talented, home-grown musicians are sure to have the crowd up on their feet dancing,” longtime organizer Councilman Sean McGuigan said.
There also will be a beer garden with a wide selection of beverages.
“The Good Old Days Festival brings our community together in a way that few events can,” McGuigan said. “It’s about celebrating our history, supporting our local organizations and making lasting memories with family and friends.”
Proceeds from the festival benefit the historical society’s preservation efforts, student scholarships and educational programs.
In addition to the fun and games, there will be an educational component with historical exhibits celebrating Somers Point’s unique heritage.
Since its founding in 1987, the historical society has worked to preserve Somers Point’s past, saving Old City Hall (now the Atlantic County library branch) and securing National Historic Recognition for the Bay Front Historic District.
Back this year is the 5K Run to Remember, honoring all first responders lost on 9/11. Presented by Shore Ace Hardware and Passion Vines, the run winds through the scenic golf course neighborhood of Somers Point. All ages and abilities are welcome, and participants are encouraged to carry or wear items saluting first responders and military service members.
Free shuttle service will again be available from Jordan Road School, Dawes Avenue School, Gregory’s Restaurant & Bar and Fire House #1 on Bethel Road.
Other events
— Sept. 11: 9/11 ceremony, 5:30 at Patriots Park
— Sept. 13: Art in the Park, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at JFK Park
— Sept. 19: POW/MIA ceremony, 7 p.m. at Patriots Park
— Sept. 27-28: Citywide yard sale, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
– By CRAIG D. SCHENCK/Sentinel staff