The North to Shore Festival will return for its fourth consecutive year in June 2026, officially marking the start of the summer season in New Jersey. Now recognized as the Garden State’s largest arts and music festival, the 2026 edition promises two full weeks of world-class music, comedy, and cultural performances in the state’s most iconic cities.
Produced by the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), the festival will take place from June 13 through June 28, 2026.
“This is a festival that celebrates New Jersey as a destination for innovation and artistic expression, through the performing arts, the visual arts, film and more,” said David Rodriguez, NJPAC’s Executive Producer.
Key Dates and Locations
The 2026 festival focuses its live performance schedule on Newark and Asbury Park, utilizing a blend of legendary arenas and intimate local venues:
- Newark Venues: Prudential Center, NJPAC’s Prudential Hall, Victoria Theater, and Chambers Plaza.
- Asbury Park Venues: Stone Pony Summer Stage, Wonder Bar, and various spaces across the boardwalk district.
- Atlantic City: While the concentrated festival weeks are in June, Atlantic City continues its year-round community programming through July 1, 2026, following its successful year-long launch in 2025.
Supporting Local Creatives and Communities
A core mission of North to Shore is highlighting homegrown talent. In Newark, the festival partners with Newark Arts and the Newark Alliance to administer regranting funds to local creatives. In Asbury Park, collaborations with Asbury Underground and the Carousel Art House will showcase the city’s unique artistic spirit. As in previous years, all community events in both cities will be free or affordably priced.
Social Impact: Growing Healthy Pantries
The 2026 festival continues its commitment to social justice by partnering with Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey for the Growing Healthy Pantries initiative. This project enhances access to nutritious food at distribution centers across the state, including the Community FoodBank of New Jersey and Fulfill.
Tickets and Lineup Announcements
Headlining artists for the North to Shore Festival 2026 are expected to be announced soon. Fans can stay updated by visiting NorthtoShore.com or downloading the official festival app. The 2026 season is made possible through sponsorships from Prudential Financial, NJM Insurance Group, United Airlines, and NJ Advance Media.
