Memorial Day picks at the Jersey Shore

Sunglasses? Check. Flip flops? Check. Sun tan lotion? Check.

Friday, May 22 through Monday, May 25 shore towns throughout New Jersey will open their beaches and attractions for the unofficial start of the summer season.

Here are our Memorial Day picks for the seashore.

For the Family

Historic Smithville (615 E Moss Mill Rd.) revs its engines on Friday, May 22 during a bi-weekly car show. From 5 to 8 p.m. visitors can travel back in time and check out vintage automobiles as well as bring their own vehicles to show off.

Kites galore will soar at the shore as the International Kite Festival takes place in Wildwood on Friday, May 22 through Monday, May 25. This four day convention highlights various shapes and sizes (and designs) of kites through workshops, showings, competitions, and even an auction. All events take place at the Rio Grande beach, at varying times. Click here for more information.

Ocean City's annual unlocking on the ocean gets down to business at noon on Friday, May 22 during a workers plunge. Located at the Moorlyn Terrace beach, watch as folks dressed in suits and other costumes dive right into the ocean.

For a thrilling weekend, Morey's Pier (3501 Boardwalk) in Wildwood is kicking off the weekend with the debut of their newest attraction, Kong. On Saturday, May 23 shore-goers can be the first to step on this ride and fly around the giant gorilla. The pier's Raging Waters water park opens this weekend, too.

For early birds: The annual Memorial Beach Challenge returns to the beaches of Ocean City on Saturday, May 23. Beginning at 7:30 a.m., watch or compete in an obstacle course that features a paddle board race, a strength challenge, and an adventure run. Proceeds from the event benefit the 31Heroes Project, Navy SEAL Foundation, and the Travis Manion Foundation. 

Cape May jams out on Saturday, May 24 with a summer music festival at the Rotary Bandstand (Lyle Ln.). Enjoy patriotic tunes (perfect for Memorial Day weekend) from the Atlantic City Brass Band. The concert is free and starts at 8 p.m.

On Friday, May 22 the Tropicana (2831 Boardwalk Ave.) shines up Atlantic City with the debut of their Multimedia and Light Show. Kicking the show off at 7 p.m. is the Atlantic City Marching Band, followed by Zumba performances, and radio hits by Longport Media's Kool 98.3 FM. At 8:30 p.m. watch in awe as the multimedia welcomes the Memorial Day weekend.

In honor of our Veterans, the Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 955, will host the 5th annual Parade and Memorial Day Ceremony on Saturday, May 23. Starting at 4 p.m., vets will start the march at Cresse Avenue and end the walk at Burke Avenue where the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall was placed. Following the parade, enjoy live music and entertainment by Bittersweet, Toe in the Sand, and Then There's Us.

Party Picks

For a mix of pop and hip-hop: Aaron Carter performs his latest hits at Harrah's Pool After Dark nightclub (777 Harrah's Blvd.) for #AquaFridays on Friday, May 22. Bring your bathing suit or nightlife gear and dance to Carter's selections beginning at 10 p.m.

From Saturday, May 23 to Monday, May 25, Flip Flopz (106 W. Spruce Ave.) in Wildwood celebrates the holiday weekend with pool parties. From 2 to 8 p.m., swim around and enjoy music from DJs, drink specials, and giveaways.

Dutch DJ R3hab will spin his latest house set on Saturday, May 23 at Haven Night Club in the Golden Nugget Casino (Huron & Brigantine Boulevard). Party goers be aware that nightlife photographer Kirill will be snapping pics. Doors open at 11 p.m.

For a performance full of "okaaaay!"s and "yeaaaaah"s, Lil Jon turns up at Borgata's MIXX Lounge (1 Borgata Way) on Sunday, May 24. Doors open at 10 p.m.

For more Things to Do, check out our calendar for the most up-to-date happenings.