Thursday, March 28, 2024

Ever-growing Mystic Lobster Roll Company expanding to Wildwood this spring


One of the fastest-growing seafood restaurant chains on the East Coast is coming to Wildwood.

This spring, New Jersey-based Mystic Lobster Roll Company will open its 33rd location at 3115 Pacific Avenue, previously home to Krispy Krunchy Chicken (and for many years before that, Center City Video Outlet).


Owners Philip & Renee Tretola opened the first Mystic-branded location at their marketplace in Ship Bottom, Long Beach Island in 2020. An overnight sensation, its success has spurred an expansion to nearly three dozen restaurants in four states, in just four years’ time.


“It’s been an incredible ride so far, but we feel like we’re just getting started,” said Philip Tretola. “This one is extra special to me because Wildwood is so near and dear to my heart. When this opportunity arose, I couldn’t wait to take it.”


Tretola, 52, born and raised in North Jersey, noted that his family has been vacationing in Wildwood since 1974. 


“It’s like coming home again,” he explained. “I have so many incredible memories made in Wildwood over the years. I learned to swim in the pool at the Pan American [Hotel]. To be able to bring our business to town is a dream come true.”


This is shaping up to be quite the year for the Tretolas, who began franchising Mystic restaurants in 2021 (since expanding at a rate of 7 to 10 new stores each year). In addition to Wildwood, they will be opening locations in Egg Harbor Township, Key West, Florida and Las Vegas (yes - VEGAS!) in the coming weeks.


The catalyst of this growth, of course, is Mystic’s “MAINE Event” - its signature lobster rolls.

Wednesday, March 27, 2024

MudHen IPA 5K & Beer Mile: A fun-filled event for runners and beer enthusiasts


PRESS RELEASE

THE WILDWOODS - The MudHen IPA 5K & Beer Mile is set to take place beginning at 6:30 pm on Friday, April 19 in the Wildwoods. The event is expected to draw runners and beer lovers from all around, as it offers a unique combination of athleticism and refreshment.

The event is hosted by MudHen Brewing Company and organized by DelMoSports. The MudHen IPA 5K & Beer Mile is the perfect opportunity for participants to push their physical limits while enjoying some of the best craft beers the area has to offer.

The IPA 5K race is held on a scenic route through the Wildwoods, offering breathtaking views of the ocean. The course is a combination of closed roads, boardwalk and bike path, offering a flat terrain for runners of all levels.

After the race, at 7:15 pm, the overall and age group awards ceremony will take place in the MudHen Brewing Company parking lot.

The Beer Mile Island Championship will begin at 7:45 pm and start and finish at the brewery. Come watch as a select group of DelMoSports athletes take on two-time defending champion Justin Ehring in the Beer Mile Championship. This unique athletic event takes place at the spectator-friendly MudHen Track, also known as Rio Grande Avenue. Come cheer on the athletes as they compete for a permanent enshrinement at MudHen Brewery.

For course maps, registration details and additional information pertaining to the MudHen Brewing Company Race Series, please visit www.DelMoSports.com.

For additional information about the Wildwoods, visit www.WildwoodsNJ.com or call 800-992-9732,

Wednesday, March 20, 2024

The Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement & Development Authority announces record-breaking 2023 tourism season


PRESS RELEASE

THE WILDWOODS - The 2023 summer tourism season in the Wildwoods, NJ surpassed expectations and delivered outstanding results.

Fast Facts - The Wildwoods Tourism Revenue posts record gains:

1.  The Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement & Development Authority (GWTIDA) reported that tourism revenue in the key categories of lodging and prepared food & beverage was 31 percent higher in 2023 than the 5-year average tourism revenues. The 2020 pandemic season numbers were not used in this comparison.

2.  Tourism revenue in the key categories of lodging and food & beverage grew almost 5 percent in 2023 over 2022, which was previously an all-time record year for tourism revenue in the Wildwoods.

3.  Tourism revenue growth has averaged 10 percent from 2018 to 2023. In 2018, tourism revenue grew by 3 percent over 2017; in 2019, it grew by 9 percent over 2018; 2021 revenue grew by 22 percent over 2019; in 2022, revenue grew by 10 percent over 2021; and in 2023, revenue grew by 5 percent over 2022.

Throughout 2023, the launch of the new marketing and public relations campaign themed "Get Lost In The Woods... The Wildwoods," as well as increased positive awareness, hundreds of free events and festivals, award-winning free beaches and spectacular weather contributed directly to $10.509 million in tourism tax revenue generated in the Wildwoods in 2023 - a 5 percent increase over the past five-year average for both the 2 percent Tourism Tax and the 1.85 percent Tourism Assessment Tax combined.

The growth represents a $513,186 increase over the Wildwoods' 2022 performance, which was a record of $9.995 million.

Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Wildwoods Convention Center welcomes Business at the Beach Expo ~ Wednesday, April 17th


PRESS RELEASE

THE WILDWOODS - Let's get down to business! The Cape May County Chamber of Commerce's annual Business at the Beach Expo is scheduled to take place Wednesday, April 17 at the Wildwoods Convention Center.

As the premier business networking event in Cape May County, the event showcases businesses in the marketplace and allows them to meet with potential customers and established clients. Attendees are welcome to explore the free expo for all their business needs, make important contacts and also attend the informative keynote session.

Be sure to register to attend the Expo keynote session scheduled at 3 pm. Then head to the expo floor, which is open from 4 pm to 7 pm.

With quality exhibitors and attendees gathered from the business community, this is the best opportunity business representatives will have all year to showcase their products and services. The Business at the Beach Expo is known for its open, relaxed atmosphere, which is conducive to making key business contacts.

Exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities are available by visiting www.CapeMayCountyChamber.com.

This year's keynote speaker is Sherwood Taylor, the senior director of Workforce Development at Atlantic Cape Community College. His informative session will feature the topic, "Leadership and Workforce Development."

For additional information about the Business at the Beach Expo, call 609-465-7181 or visit www.CapeMayCountyChamber.com.

For additional information about the Wildwoods, visit www.WildwoodsNJ.com or call 800-992-9732.

Monday, March 18, 2024

The Wildwoods, NJ: Top Shore Destination for Dogs


Whether it's a day at the beach or a week-long vacation, the Wildwoods have dozens of businesses and accommodations that are pet friendly...

PRESS RELEASE

THE WILDWOODS - The Wildwoods, NJ are thrilled to welcome vacationers and their four-legged friends for a vacation experience that's sure to please. Whether it's a day at the beach or a week-long vacation, the Wildwoods have dog beaches, dog parks and dozens of businesses and accommodations that are pet friendly.

Dog-Friendly Beach and Recreational Attractions

From May through October, four-legged friends have a special, designated beach area to call their own at Glenwood Avenue in Wildwood. Just to be safe, all dogs must be licensed, must always be leashed, except inside the enclosed beach dog park, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their four-legged friends. North Wildwood beaches allow dogs during the summer season, anytime when lifeguards are off duty (lifeguard hours are 9:30 am to 5:30 pm).

The Wildwoods Dog Beach has been named one of the Top 10 "Best Dog Friendly Beaches in the U.S." in the 10Best Readers' Choice travel award contest sponsored by USA Today. USA Today 10Best teamed up with BringFido.com to nominate the 20 most dog-friendly beaches in the nation. The Wildwoods Dog Beach received the second highest number of votes, ranking it #2 overall in the U.S.

Tails wag as dogs make their way across the Boardwalk and onto the sand as they approach the 25-foot-tall red Fire Hydrant Sculpture at the beach Dog Park - right at the entrance to the Dog Beach. The Dog Park is completely fenced in, so there is enough room for dogs to run and stretch their legs. It is separated into two sections - one for large breed dogs and the other for small breed dogs. As with the Dog Beach, all dogs entering the Dog Park must be licensed, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their four-legged friends.

Wednesday, March 13, 2024

The Wildwoods Convention Center hosts cheerleading competitions in April and May


PRESS RELEASE

THE WILDWOODS - The Wildwoods Convention Center will host an amazing lineup of athletic and talented cheerleaders from around the country for cheer championships during the months of April and May.

For each event, teams will compete on a spring floor and perform incredible stunts in hopes of winning the judges' votes. All performances will be choreographed to music and sound effects, and the winning teams will be awarded prizes.


Cheer Tech's Spirit National Championships & World BID
Saturday & Sunday, April 6 & 7

Cheer Tech's Spirit National Championships & World BID will be held at the Wildwoods Convention Center on Saturday, April 6 from 8:30 am to 7 pm; and on Sunday, April 7 from 8:30 am to 3 pm (times are subject to change). An admission fee will be charged at the door the day of the event (price TBD). For more information, visit www.cheertech.net or call 866-52-CHEER.


Spirit Brands "The Grands" Cheer Competition
Friday, April 12

Spirit Brands "The Grands" Cheer Competition Championships will be held at the Wildwoods Convention Center on Friday, April 12 from 9 am to 4 pm (times are subject to change). An admission fee will be charged at the door the day of the event (price TBD).


Spirit Brands "Shore Showdown" Cheer Competition
Saturday, April 13

The Spirit Brands "Shore Showdown" Cheer Competition will be held at the Wildwoods Convention Center on Saturday, April 13 from 9 am to 4 pm (times are subject to change). An admission fee will be charged at the door the day of the event (price TBD).


Spirit Brands "Beast of the East" Cheer Competition
Sunday, April 14

The Spirit Brands "Beast of the East" Cheer Competition will be held at the Wildwoods Convention Center on Sunday, April 14 from 9 am to 6 pm (times are subject to change). An admission fee will be charged at the door the day of the event (price TBD).


Spirit Brands "North American Spirit Tournament" Cheer Competition
Saturday, May 11

The Spirit Brands "North American Spirit Tournament" Cheer Competition will be held at the Wildwoods Convention Center on Saturday, May 11 from 9 am to 5 pm (times are subject to change). An admission fee of $30 per person will be charged at the door the day of the event. Children under 5 years old are free.


For additional information about Spirit Brands cheerleading events, visit www.SpiritBrands.org or call 866-52-CHEER.

For additional information about Cheer Tech, visit www.CheerTech.net or call 866-52-CHEER.

For additional information about the Wildwoods, visit www.WildwoodsNJ.com or call 800-992-9732.

Tuesday, March 12, 2024

The annual North Wildwood Fallen Hero Plunge coming to Inlet Beach ~ Saturday, April 6th


PRESS RELEASE

THE WILDWOOD - Get freezin' for a reason during the 16th Annual Fallen Hero Plunge in North Wildwood on Saturday, April 6. This year's event will take place at 11 am on Inlet Beach at 1st & Surf Avenue in North Wildwood. Take a dip in the water and celebrate a great cause at participating restaurants. 

The Fallen Hero Plunge is dedicated to the memory of law enforcement heroes who lost their lives in the line of duty. Proceeds from this event will benefit the families of these fallen heroes.

Registration for plunge is open on the event's page at www.FallenHeroPlunge.com

The online registration fee is $35 per plunger and $15 for children under 15 years of age. The first 600 people to sign up will receive a commemorative t-shirt. On-site registration is available the day of the event from 8:45 am to 10:45 am. Day-of registration fee is $40 for adults and $15 for children under 15 years of age.

There will be an auction of autographed items, gift certificates and gift baskets. Prizes will be awarded for best costumes at the plunge. (Participants do not have to wear costumes to the after party.)

All registered plungers are invited to the post-plunge party taking place at 12 pm at Keenan's Irish Pub and sponsoring locations, including Anglesea Pub, Tacos and Tequila, Exit 6, North End American Grill, Curran's Irish Inn, Salty Mermaid and Surfing Pig.

Non-plungers will be able to purchase a wristband for $20 to participate in the post-plunge party at Keenan's Irish Pub. All proceeds from the wristbands will go directly to the Fallen Heroes Survivors Fund.

For additional information, visit www.FallenHeroPlunge.com or call 215-990-8689.

For additional information about the Wildwoods, visit www.WildwoodsNJ.com call 800-992-9732.

Historic Hereford Inlet Lighthouse celebrates 150th anniversary ~ Saturday, May 11th


Built in 1874, the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse is the oldest structure in the Wildwoods...

PRESS RELEASE

THE WILDWOODS - The public is invited to join the celebration of the 150th anniversary of the historic Hereford Inlet Lighthouse and English Gardens on Saturday, May 11 from 10 am to 4 pm.

On May 11, exactly 150 years ago, the historic lighthouse was first illuminated. This year's anniversary festivities will feature a presentation on Augustine Fresnel, the designer of the lighthouse's inaugural lens. Other attractions include guest speakers, a birthday cake, auctions, vendors and more. 

Admission is free, and donations are encouraged to support this significant milestone.

Built in 1874, the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse is the oldest structure in the Wildwoods. The lighthouse was constructed as a beacon of safety for ships. By marking the mouth of the inlet, it has helped to prevent shipwrecks as shipping vessel traffic increased in the inlet over the years. Functioning as a vital safety beacon for ships, the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse was strategically erected to mark the mouth of the inlet.

The lighthouse is located at 111 North Central Avenue in North Wildwood, and is open to the public from May to December. Visitors to the lighthouse will learn about the history of the building and local area. The lighthouse grounds are a great place to relax, take in the ocean air and stroll the gardens, which are densely landscaped with many varieties of plant life, including Hollyhocks, Nicotiana, Nasturtium, Snapdragons and Foxgloves.

Decorated with arbors, fences, birdbaths, urns and clay pots, the gardens extend up to the seawall at Hereford Inlet. 

For additional information please email info@herefordinletlighthouse.com or visit www.herefordinletlighthouse.com.

For additional information about the Wildwoods, visit www.WildwoodsNJ.com or call 800-992-9732.

Thursday, March 7, 2024

Pompeo’s, now under same management as Little Nicky's, to open 2024 season with traditional Easter Weekend buffet


Change is in the wind up on the north end.

No, we’re not talking about the planned start of North Wildwood’s Boardwalk renovation project - that’s set to begin after the 2024 summer season.


At the end of this month, Pompeo’s, an institution at 17th Street for over four decades, will reopen under new management, which is aiming to blend traditional aspects of the restaurant’s presentation with some out-side-the-box ideas.


“I want to let everyone know that Pompeo’s is coming back, better than ever,” said proprietor Elaina Galdo-Pagan, who has taken the reins alongside her husband, Hawk Pagan. “We’re starting with the beloved Easter Weekend buffet, then we have a number of exciting plans for the upcoming season.”


Easter Weekend Breakfast with the Easter Bunny, a full-service buffet event, is set for Saturday, March 30 and Easter Sunday, March 31. Additional details will be released soon, but those looking to make early reservations can do so by calling or texting 267-838-1354.


After that, according to Galdo-Pagan, the restaurant will reopen at the end of April for breakfast (8 am - 2 pm) on the weekends. Closer to Memorial Day, it will serve up breakfast and dinner (5 - 9 pm), eventually moving to a daily schedule for the summer season.


A new kitchen staff will oversee changes to the dinner menu, planned to include the addition of several fresh seafood options and select all-you-can-eat crab nights.


For the first time, Pompeo’s will also offer menu items from Little Nicky’s Pizza, located next door. The Galdo/Pagan family has operated the pizzeria over the past four summers. Both properties were purchased by Elaina’s father, John Galdo, in 2020. 


Little Nicky’s and Pompeo’s were owned and operated by the Klug family from 1978 until they retired and sold the businesses after the 2018 season. Rich Merlino leased Pompeo’s from 2020 to 2023,


“We’re excited to move into this new era and all the possibilities to come,” said Galdo-Pagan. “Pompeo’s holds such a special place for so many, with its long history of serving families on the Boardwalk. That’s something we intend to honor and build onto.


“Our tradition continues to grow as we operate both Little Nicky’s and Pompeo’s, keeping and expanding on the connection between these two popular businesses.”


The Wildwoods Convention Center hosts "War at the Jersey Shore" National Youth Wrestling Tournament - Thursday, March 28 to Saturday, March 30


PRESS RELEASE

THE WILDWOODS - The Atlantic Coast Wrestling Association will host the annual "War at the Jersey Shore" National Wrestling National Youth Wrestling Tournament at the Wildwoods Convention Center from Thursday, March 28 to Saturday, March 30. 

The event features National Folkstyle Wrestling Championships.

The "War" features a youth tournament with over 50 weight classes spread across 5 age divisions and a High School Division with 15 weight classes. A girls' division, K-12, will also be featured along with an open division. Weigh-ins will be on Thursday and the tournament will be held on Friday and Saturday.

Times for competitions are as follows:

Wednesday, March 6, 2024

All-you-can-eat crab legs returns to the Wildwoods at Flip Flopz


PRESS RELEASE

NORTH WILDWOOD - All-you-can-eat crab legs returns to the Wildwoods every day this summer at Flip Flopz Restaurant and Bar in North Wildwood. 

The restaurant is celebrating its 17th season with a big kick-off to summer. This year, many new offers like a $29 every day dinner menu and a kids eat free promotion will be added along with the all-you-can-eat special. 


Flip Flopz is located in the North Wildwood Entertainment District on the corner of Spruce & Olde New Jersey Avenues


The AYCE Crabs at Flip Flopz will kick off in June for $59.95 per person and will be offered every day. Owner of Flip Flopz, Joseph Mahoney, hopes the offer will bring in current and past customers.


“Last year we brought in a new chef and redid the menu,” said Mahoney. “This year we will add discounts and specials like the all-you-can-eat offer. I hope past customers return to Flip Flopz to see what’s new and I invite new customers to give us a try.”


A few rules apply for the AYCE promotion, which can be found at flipflopznw.com/ayce

Tuesday, March 5, 2024

Wildwood Crest Creative Arts Council opens its second annual art competition


PRESS RELEASE

WILDWOOD CREST - The Wildwood Crest Creative Arts Council is hosting its second annual art competition for Cape May County residents ages 6 and older.

The competition encourages artists of any age to highlight the Wildwoods Boardwalk. The competition urges participants to display what they love best about the Boardwalk. This can include a memory from the past or expressions of current themes related to the Boardwalk.

This year's art contest is inspired by the works of local artist Russ Simmons.

All media are accepted into the competition, including but not limited to watercolor, oil paint, acrylic, pen/ink, clay/ceramic, graphic art, collage, marker, colored pencil and photography.

Submitted artwork must be no larger than 18 x 24 inches.

Artwork must be submitted with a completed certificate of authenticity to the back of ready-to-hang artwork, along with a waiver of liability. Both forms are available at the top of the front page of the wildwoodcrest.org website.

2D artwork should be framed, mounted or mated with wire ready to be hung on display with the certificate of authenticity attached to the back.

Artwork must be submitted to the Crest Arts Pavilion at 6031 Ocean Avenue no later than Friday, April 12.

Judging will be done by local artist Fredi Daniel and members of the Wildwood Crest Creative Arts Council.

A reception and award ceremony this is open to all participants and the general public will be held at the new Crest Arts Pavilion at 6301 Ocean Avenue on Friday, April 26 at 6 pm.

For more information, send email to cac@wildwoodcrest.org.

The Wildwoods host Special Olympics New Jersey Basketball competitions ~ Saturday, March 23 & Sunday, March 24


PRESS RELEASE

THE WILDWOODS - Special Olympics athletes from across New Jersey will participate in Special Olympics New Jersey Spring Games Basketball on Saturday and Sunday, March 23 and 24, in the Wildwoods.

Six different locations throughout the Wildwoods will host these competitions, including the Wildwoods Convention Center, the Wildwood Crest Pier Recreation Center, Wildwood High School, Wildwood Catholic Academy, the North Wildwood Community Center and the Byrne Community Center. 

Special Olympics athletes from across the Garden State will compete for gold, silver and bronze medals.

Competitions will be held from 10 am - 6 pm on Saturday and from 9 am - 2 pm on Sunday at each venue. This event is open to the public and admission is FREE. Tournament divisions and schedules will be available at www.sonj.org/events/spring-games-basketball/ as the event date approaches.

For over 55 years, Special Olympics New Jersey has provided year-round sports training and athletic competitions to thousands of children and adults with intellectual disabilities, completely free of charge. Athletes can participate in 24 Olympic-type sports, receive free health screenings and participate in leadership opportunities. Through the joy and power of sports, athletes develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage and experience pure competitive joy.

Additionally, this inclusive community allows athletes to share their gifts, skills and friendship with their families, fellow Special Olympics athletes and the greater community. Thousands of coaches, volunteers, family members, friends and spectators dedicate their time to Special Olympics New Jersey.

For additional information, call 609-896-8000 or visit www.sonj.org.

For additional information about the Wildwoods, visit www.WildwoodsNJ.com or call 800-992-9732.

Sunday, March 3, 2024

The Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement & Development Authority announces new 2024 tourism campaign


Coming off a successful 2023 tourism season, the Wildwoods launch its new "Get Lost In The Woods... The Wildwoods!" tourism campaign...

PRESS RELEASE

THE WILDWOODS - The Wildwoods recently launched its new 2024 tourism ad campaign - "Get Lost In The Woods... The Wildwoods!"

It highlights that the Wildwoods help you lose yourself in the best possible way, with everything vacationers could ever want in a safe, fun vacation experience - all on one 5-mile island.

The campaign features two all-new TV commercials showing highlights of everything there is to do in the Wildwoods, from relaxing on the Wildwoods' spacious, clean and FREE white-sand beaches, to exploring the 38-block, world famous Wildwoods Boardwalk with three action-packed amusement piers featuring over 100 rides and attractions, three beachfront water parks, great shopping, fun carnival games and flashing arcades, plus unique dining and nightlife experiences, watersports, fishing and boating, and more.

"The campaign definitely shows the versatility of the Wildwoods as a family vacation destination with everything you could ever want all on one five-mile island, so why go anywhere else?" said Ben Rose, Director of Marketing and Public Relations for the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement & Development Authority (GWTIDA). "The 'Get Lost In The Woods' campaign is the culmination of many months of research and planning, and truly reflects the uniqueness of the Wildwoods as a family beach destination that can satisfy every member of the family."

Friday, March 1, 2024

Barefoot Country Music Fest announces lineup for 2024 event


A star-studded celebration of country music at the South Jersey Shore...

PRESS RELEASE

WILDWOOD - The countdown to summer just got hotter as Barefoot Country Music Fest unveils its complete lineup for the highly anticipated event taking place from June 20-23, 2024 in Wildwood, New Jersey!

Building upon the excitement generated by previously announced headliners Luke Bryan, Keith Urban, Kane Brown, Old Dominion, Bailey Zimmerman and Jake Owen, the festival promises an unforgettable experience with over 40+ artists across five stages.

Joining the star-studded roster are nationally known artists Scotty McCreery, Oliver Anthony, The Beach Boys, Bret Michaels, Nate Smith, Hailey Whitters, Niko Moon, Rodney Atkins and Colt Ford, ensuring a diverse musical landscape that appeals to country music enthusiasts of all tastes.

In addition to the renowned headliners and nationally recognized performers, Barefoot Country Music Fest is proud to showcase a lineup of acclaimed performers, including Conner Smith, Alana Springsteen, Avery Anna, Kylie Morgan, Mackenzie Porter, The War and Treaty, John Eddie, Davisson Brothers Band, Owen Riegling, Nolan Quinn, Graham Barham, Taylor Austin Dye, Mara Justice, Gillian Smith, Greylan James, Sadie Bass, Dillon James, Gavin Adcock, Redferrin, Bryan Martin, Aidan Canfield and The Heritage America Band.

"Our lineup for Barefoot Country Music Fest promises an exceptional blend of national, regional and local talent," said Bob Durkin of Southern Entertainment. "With our commitment to delivering a dynamic and unforgettable experience for all attendees, this year is poised to be our best yet."

BCMF 2024 is set to deliver an unforgettable experience beyond the music. Attendees can test their aim with axe throwing, saddle up for bull riding and hit the stage at Club Barefoot for some karaoke and dueling pianos. 

Stay tuned for pop-up performances from artists and so much more!

Vendors will be on-site serving up your every craving, getting you Barefoot ready as you snag some merch and explore offerings from local artisans. With so much to see and do, Barefoot Country Music Fest promises to be the ultimate summer destination for music lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

The event will be held at 3601 Boardwalk in Wildwood, located on the beach between the famous Morey's Piers.

Stay tuned for local and regional artist announcements. For the latest updates or to purchase tickets, visit www.BarefootCountryMusicFest.com.

About Barefoot Country Music Fest