Jersey City buzzes with summer energy in July, and honestly, there’s no shortage of ways to dive into the city’s culture. Outdoor markets, waterfront concerts, quirky pop-ups—if you’re looking for something to do, you’ll find it, whether you’re downtown, in the Heights, or by the river.
This week, July 6-12, the city’s calendar is packed. The summer programming is rolling along with festivals, exhibits, and events that make it a pretty great time to get out and explore. There’s a little bit of everything, from family-friendly outings to nighttime fun.
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1) Attend the Jersey City Latin Jazz Festival
The 2nd annual Jersey City Latin Jazz Festival is coming up on September 5-6, 2025. Okay, it’s not this week, but it’s a big deal in the city’s cultural calendar, so it’s worth flagging now.
Exchange Place Plaza and J. Owen Grundy Pier get totally transformed for the festival, with three stages pumping out world-class Latin jazz. You’ll catch salsa dance lessons, kids’ activities, and a bunch of food trucks parked all over.
Riverview Jazz organizes the whole thing—they’re a local nonprofit that just wants to throw a good party with amazing musicians, and honestly, they nail it. The music runs from 1:00pm to 8:00pm both days, and the views of Manhattan from the pier are hard to beat. It’s free, so there’s really no excuse not to check it out.
2) Explore the Grove St PATH Plaza summer market
The Historic Downtown Farmers Market pops up every Monday and Thursday from 3-7PM at the Grove Street PATH Plaza. It’s your go-to spot for fresh produce, local goodies, and whatever seasonal treats the vendors are offering.
This week, expect a little Fourth of July flair—red, white, and blue everywhere, and plenty of summer fruit. The vibe downtown is lively, and you’ll probably run into neighbors or friends while you’re there.
The Handmade Market joins in on Wednesdays (3-8PM) and Saturdays (12-6PM) through September 17th, with local artists selling unique stuff you won’t find anywhere else.
It’s all happening at 325 Grove Street, super easy to get to by PATH, bus, or Citi Bike. Whether you’re stocking up for dinner or just looking for a cool gift, it’s a fun stop.
There’s usually live music, cooking demos, and the chance to actually talk to the people growing or making what you buy. Feels like a real community hub, not just a market.
3) Visit the Bergen Square Day celebrations
Bergen Square Day is back, and it’s all about celebrating Jersey City’s roots. The event happens at Bergen Avenue and Academy Street, which locals know as the historic heart of the city.
You can hop on guided history tours from 12-6 PM. They dive into what makes this neighborhood tick, and honestly, you might learn something surprising.
There’s live music, food, and cultural displays from all corners of Jersey City. It’s a great way to meet people and get a sense of how the city’s changed over time.
Don’t skip the special exhibit tent on Bergen Avenue—”Jersey City Across the Centuries“—put together by the Museum of Jersey City History and the Jersey City Public Library.
At 6:30 PM, check out Speranza Theatre Company’s performance of “Mary & Eleanor,” which shines a light on the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. There’s a lot packed into the day, whether you’re into history or just want to hang out.
4) Enjoy live music at JC Fridays
JC Fridays is a staple in Jersey City’s arts scene. Free arts events all over the city happen four times a year, and July’s edition is loaded with live music.
You’ll find performances in all sorts of venues—some inside, some spilling out onto the street. Jazz, rock, world music, you name it.
Most sets kick off late afternoon and go into the evening. The Grove Street PATH Plaza usually hosts outdoor shows, and you can browse artisan vendors while you listen.
Everything is free and open to everyone, which makes it an easy way to dip into the city’s arts scene without worrying about spending cash.
Schedules change and events are scattered, so check the JC Fridays website for details. Some places serve food and drinks, so you can make a night of it if you want.
5) Experience the Ukrainian Fall Festival
It’s only July, but you might want to jot down the Ukrainian Fall Festival for September 14, 2024, at the Ukrainian National Home.
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This one draws a crowd—almost 1,000 people are already interested. You’ll get a real taste of Ukrainian culture, from homemade food to folk music and crafts.
The Ukrainian National Home puts this on every year, and there’s always traditional dance, cultural exhibits, and plenty of pierogies and cabbage rolls. The homemade dishes are a highlight.
Tickets tend to sell out, so if you’re thinking about it, grab yours on Eventbrite sooner rather than later.
The location’s easy to reach, and the festival atmosphere feels warm and genuine. It’s a cool way to experience Ukrainian heritage without leaving Jersey City.
6) Join the Back to School Picnic
The Back to School Picnic at Lincoln Park happens July 12, running from 11 AM to 3 PM. It’s both a fun day out and a chance to get ready for the new school year.
Local vendors sell school supplies at good prices, so you can stock up while the kids play. The picnic area near the west entrance has lots of shade, which is a blessing in July.
Lincoln Park is a favorite for picnics, thanks to big trees and plenty of space. Even when it gets busy, it doesn’t feel cramped.
You can pack your own food or hit up the food trucks from local spots. There’s face painting, three-legged races, and some educational games to help kids get back in the school mindset.
At 1 PM, they give out free backpacks—no registration needed, but showing up early helps if you want one. Plus, you’ll snag a good spot on the grass.
7) Browse the outdoor cultural arts exhibits
Jersey City’s outdoor art scene really pops in July. All over parks and public spaces, you’ll spot sculptures and interactive pieces that reflect the city’s diversity.
The Office of Cultural Affairs works with local artists to set up these temporary exhibits downtown, and they’re open every day from 9am until sunset. All free.
Liberty State Park is showing off environmental art this week, with everything made from recycled stuff. It’s a neat way to think about sustainability while wandering the park.
The waterfront path along the Hudson features glass art installations that really catch the light. The walk is easy, with great skyline views thrown in.
On Saturday, local artists will be around from 1-4pm to chat about their work. Bring comfy shoes and maybe a water bottle—it’s a lot of ground to cover.
You can download a free map of all the exhibits from the Jersey City Office of Cultural Affairs site. The city’s arts and entertainment scene just keeps getting better.
8) Sample local food at Jersey City food festivals
July is a food lover’s dream in Jersey City. The food scene is always buzzing, but this week, there are several festivals to check out.
The Hamilton Park BBQ Festival kicks off Saturday. Local pitmasters serve up everything from ribs to inventive vegetarian BBQ. It smells amazing.
Marketplace JC is also running its weekend food market with 30+ vendors serving cuisine from around the world. It’s downtown and easy to get to.
If you’re craving Italian, La Festa Italiana is still going through Sunday. Expect classic pasta, cannoli, and street food.
Beer fans, the Craft Beer & Food Festival is on Sunday at Liberty State Park. Sample local brews and enjoy the harbor views.
Entry fees vary—some are free, others ask $10-15. Most festivals run 11am-7pm. If you hate lines, show up early.
9) Take a family hike in Liberty State Park
Liberty State Park is perfect for a family hike this weekend. The views of Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island are just the start—the park covers over 1,200 acres along the river.
There are plenty of trails and walks for all ages and fitness levels. The Liberty Walk connects the park’s main highlights and is a favorite.
For something quieter, head to the Nature Center area. You can spot local wildlife and get a break from the city noise.
Bring snacks and water—trust me, you’ll want to stop and take in the views along the way. Early mornings or late afternoons are best for photos.
Don’t skip the riverside walkway. It’s stroller-friendly, easy to walk, and the scenery is unbeatable.
10) Discover pop-up comedy shows downtown
Jersey City’s comedy scene is really taking off, with pop-up shows downtown just about every week. The Laugh Tour Comedy Club hosts regular stand-up with top NYC metro talent and some international acts.
The club’s got a ton of five-star reviews and has packed out shows more than 80 times. Shows happen in a private room at Dorrian’s restaurant, so you can grab dinner before you laugh.
If you want more variety, check out Monty Hall or Art House Productions—two popular comedy spots. They bring in both big names and up-and-comers.
You’ll see comics who’ve been on Netflix, HBO, and Comedy Central. The rooms are small, so the energy is always high.
Find upcoming shows on Eventbrite’s Jersey City listings. Most start around 7-8pm, and tickets usually run $15-25.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Week in Jersey City
Getting around Jersey City can be a breeze if you plan ahead, especially once the summer crowds show up. A little thought about transportation and the weather can make your trip a lot smoother.
Transportation and Parking Information
You’ve got plenty of ways to get around here. The PATH train zips you into Manhattan and back for $2.75 a ride. If you’re sticking around for a few days, a SmartLink card saves some cash and hassle.
The Light Rail is handy for cruising up and down the waterfront—nice views, $2.25 a ride, and you’ll avoid the worst of the traffic. CitiBike stations are scattered all over downtown, so renting a bike is easy and surprisingly fun.
Driving? Good luck with street parking, especially anywhere popular. You might want to look at these instead:
- Liberty State Park: $7 for the day
- Newport Mall Garage: $24 if you’re there 8+ hours
- Exchange Place garages: Usually $18-25 for the day
There’s also the Via Jersey City rideshare—it’s free inside city limits and works well for quick hops between sights.
Weather Considerations and What to Bring
July here gets steamy. Expect it to hover around 82-88°F, plus humidity, and storms can roll in out of nowhere. If you’re not a fan of sweating buckets, stick to mornings for your big walks or sightseeing—afternoons get sticky, and thunderstorms can pop up.
Here’s what you’ll want to pack:
- A refillable water bottle (there are fountains in most parks)
- Clothes that breathe—light, loose, easy
- Good walking shoes
- An umbrella or a light raincoat (just in case)
- Sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher
- Sunglasses and a hat
Indoor spots crank the AC, so bringing a light layer is a good idea—you’ll thank yourself when you step inside shivering. Down by the waterfront, the breeze off the Hudson can cool things off by 5-10 degrees, which honestly feels amazing on a hot day. Weather can flip fast, so check the forecast before you head out.
Local Dining and Nightlife Recommendations
Jersey City’s food scene? Honestly, it’s on par with Manhattan—maybe even a bit more relaxed. You’ll find everything from fancy tasting menus to late-night neighborhood joints, all with their own vibe.
Popular Neighborhoods for Foodies
Downtown Jersey City is packed with great eats. Midnight Market throws lively food festivals with local vendors. Talde serves up Asian-American fusion that’s bold, while Razza’s wood-fired pizza draws folks from both sides of the river.
In The Heights, you’ll stumble on Latin American spots run by families—big portions, fair prices—and some new cafés with outdoor tables if you want to linger.
Journal Square is a go-to for Indian food. The flavors are legit, and you won’t pay Manhattan prices.
Grove Street has a cluster of top-rated restaurants with all kinds of menus. Most places do happy hour from 4-7pm, so you can grab a deal before heading out for the night.
Nightlife Hotspots Near Popular Attractions
Exchange Place bars serve up some of the best Manhattan skyline views you’ll find. After dark, the district buzzes with rooftop lounges—grab a craft cocktail, lean on the rail, and just soak in the Hudson. If you’re into something a little different, Rooftop Films hosts evening movie screenings with a pretty unbeatable backdrop.
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Newark Avenue Pedestrian Plaza is kind of the unofficial nightlife hub in Jersey City. Since it’s car-free, you can wander from bar to bar without dodging traffic, and honestly, that’s half the fun. Most weekends, you’ll catch local bands playing in the area’s live music venues.
Liberty State Park has a handful of waterfront spots that are just right for sunset drinks. You’ll usually find outdoor seating and a clear shot of the Statue of Liberty—hard to beat that vibe.
Hamilton Park leans quieter, with cozy wine bars and pubs pouring craft beers. These places feel more laid-back than downtown, and they often bring in local entertainment if you’re in the mood for something mellow.
Getting Around Jersey City, NJ
Plan Your Stay in Jersey City, NJ
Things to Do in Jersey City, NJ
