Things To Do in New Jersey This Weekend: October 17-October 19
From classic movie tributes and retro music festivals to coastal adventures, New Jersey’s fall lineup is filled with nostalgia and discovery. Celebrate timeless tunes at the Wildwoods ’50s, ’60s &…

From classic movie tributes and retro music festivals to coastal adventures, New Jersey's fall lineup is filled with nostalgia and discovery. Celebrate timeless tunes at the Wildwoods '50s, '60s & '70s Weekend, sing along to "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," or take on the Lighthouse Challenge of New Jersey. With art, history, and music around every corner, it's the perfect weekend to experience the state's autumn magic.
A Tribute to the Music of "The Rocky Horror Picture Show": 50th Anniversary Celebration
- What: "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" interactive screening and celebration
- When: Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025, at 7 p.m.
- Where: Belmar Arts Center, 608 River Road, Belmar
- Cost: $15
Celebrate 50 years of "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" with a lively tribute featuring Kevin Spyker and members of the Belmar Arts Music Collective. This interactive screening celebrates the cult classic's iconic soundtrack, calling audiences to dance, sing, and join together again in the nutty world of Dr. Frank N. Furter. With creative costumes, infectious energy, and plenty of "Time Warp" spirit, it's a joyful nod to one of cinema's most iconic celebrations of self-expression.
Wildwoods '50s, '60s & '70s Weekend
- What: Annual celebration of the classics
- When: Friday, Oct. 17, 2025, dance party from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.; and Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025, concert at 7 p.m. (doors open at 5 p.m.)
- Where: Wildwoods Convention Center, 4501 Boardwalk, Wildwood
- Cost: Tickets start at $20
The Wildwoods '50s, '60s & '70s Weekend brings a nostalgic celebration of classic hits, vintage style, and timeless fun to the Jersey Shore. This beloved annual event features live music from legendary acts such as The Pointer Sisters and The Spinners, along with a lively dance party, a classic car show, and a retro festival atmosphere.
Lighthouse Challenge of New Jersey
- What: Annual challenge to visit up to 16 lighthouses in two days
- When: Saturday, Oct. 18 and Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025
- Where: Cape May Lighthouse, 215 Lighthouse Ave., Cape May Point
- Cost: Free to participate; various fees may apply to each lighthouse
The Lighthouse Challenge of New Jersey invites adventurers to explore the state's rich maritime heritage by visiting 16 historic lighthouses and lifesaving stations along the coast and Delaware River. Participants travel through scenic shorelines and charming seaside towns, collecting souvenirs and stories at each stop. Now in its 26th year, this beloved event celebrates the enduring beauty, history, and spirit of New Jersey's guiding lights.
Other Events
New Jersey's fall weekend offers something for every mood — from chart-topping pop nostalgia and spooky seasonal fun to peaceful moments in nature. Whether you want to sing along, get into the Halloween spirit, or enjoy the colors of autumn, it's a perfect time to explore the Garden State:
- The Wanted 2.0: Glad You Came North American Tour: Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025, at 8:30 p.m. at Celebrity Theatre at the Claridge Hotel, 123 S. Indiana Ave., Atlantic City
- Ghoul Spring Village: Friday, Oct. 17 and Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025, from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Historic Cold Spring Village, 735 Seashore Road, Cape May
- NJ Audubon: Fall Forest Stroll: Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at New Jersey Audubon's Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary, 11 Hardscrabble Road, Bernardsville




