Margate Magic: Lucy, Local Fun, and Laid-Back Beach Living!
Hey Shore connoisseurs! If you're looking for a beach town with a personality all its own, then welcome to Margate City! Famous for our beloved Lucy the Elephant (she's a National Historic Landmark, you know!), Margate offers a delightful mix of beautiful beaches, unique local shops, fantastic dining, and a more relaxed, residential vibe that I've always adored. It's not just a summer fling; Margate has a special charm in the fall and winter too. Imagine crisp walks to see Lucy, cozy dinners, and the kind of peace that only the off-season Shore can bring. Let's explore some of the great reasons to visit from September 2025 through January 2026!
Friendly reminder: Event schedules are often based on previous years. Always a good idea to check official sources for the most up-to-date information as event dates draw nearer!
September 2025 in Margate
- Margate Beachstock (If scheduled for Fall - usually early summer)
Event Description: While typically a June event, it's worth checking if any "end-of-season" version or similar beach festival is planned for September. Beachstock is Margate's biggest beach party with live music, food, kids' activities, and more. If not, September offers perfect, less crowded beach days!
Address: Along the beach at Huntington Avenue, Margate City, NJ 08402 (for Beachstock). Otherwise, all Margate beaches.
Cost: Beachstock is usually free to attend. Beach tags are generally not required after Labor Day, but verify.
Children/Pets: Beachstock is very child-friendly. For general beach days, kids love it! Leashed pets are typically allowed on beaches during the off-season (check local ordinances for specific dates/times).
Parking: Street parking can be tight during big events. For regular beach days in September, parking is easier.
More Info: Check the Margate Has More events page for any fall beach events.
- Le Tour de Downbeach (Annual Bike Ride)
Event Description: Usually held in September or October, this fun, family-friendly bicycle tour typically rides through the "Downbeach" communities of Ventnor, Margate, and Longport. It's a great way to see the sights and enjoy the beautiful fall weather.
Address: Route varies, often starting/ending at a community center or park in one of the Downbeach towns.
Cost: Registration fee for participants.
Children/Pets: Very child-friendly for those who can bike the distance or ride along. Pets aren't suited for the ride itself but can cheer from the sidelines in permitted areas.
Parking: Available near the start/finish points; details provided upon registration.
More Info: Look for "Le Tour de Downbeach" on local community event calendars or the Margate Has More website.
October 2025 in Margate
- Margate Fall Funfest by the Bay
Event Description: This is a HUGE one for Margate, folks! Typically held the last weekend of September or first in October along the bayfront, Fall Funfest is packed with entertainment: dozens of craft vendors, delicious food, live music, kids' activities, character parades, and so much more. It's a beloved community tradition.
Address: Amherst Avenue, along the bay, Margate City, NJ 08402.
Cost: Free to attend; pay for food, crafts, and some activities.
Children/Pets: Extremely child-friendly with tons for them to do! Leashed, well-behaved pets are generally welcome in the outdoor festival area.
Parking: Street parking in the surrounding residential areas. It gets very crowded, so arrive early or consider walking/biking if staying nearby.
More Info: This is a flagship event; check Margate Has More for confirmed dates and details.
- Halloween with Lucy the Elephant
Event Description: Lucy the Elephant often gets into the spooky spirit! Look for special Halloween-themed tours or small events at Lucy. It's a unique way to celebrate with the world's most famous elephant.
Address: Lucy the Elephant, 9200 Atlantic Ave, Margate City, NJ 08402.
Cost: Regular tour fees might apply, or special event pricing.
Children/Pets: Great for kids! Pets are not allowed inside Lucy but can view her from the outside park area.
Parking: Limited street parking around Lucy; some dedicated spots may be available.
More Info: Visit the official Lucy the Elephant events page.
November 2025 in Margate
- Margate City Wide Tag Sale (Often Fall)
Event Description: Keep an eye out for community-wide tag sales, sometimes organized in the fall. It's a fantastic way to find treasures and experience local life in Margate. The Margate Community Church also often holds seasonal markets/sales.
Address: Various homes throughout Margate; maps may be provided by organizers. Margate Community Church: 8900 Ventnor Ave.
Cost: Free to browse; great bargains to be found!
Children/Pets: Children welcome. Pets might be best left at home or in the car when Browse private properties unless an event is specifically outdoors and pet-friendly.
Parking: Street parking in residential areas.
More Info: Check local papers, community bulletin boards, or the Margate Community Church website for announcements.
- Thanksgiving Weekend at the Shore
Event Description: While Margate itself might be quieter for specific large events on Thanksgiving weekend compared to some other towns, it’s a wonderful time for a peaceful family getaway. Enjoy crisp beach walks, cozy dinners at local restaurants (check for reservations!), and the beautiful, calm atmosphere.
Address: All throughout Margate City, NJ 08402.
Cost: Varies based on activities.
Children/Pets: Perfect for family time. Leashed pets will love the empty beaches (check local off-season rules).
Parking: Generally easy street parking.
More Info: Many local restaurants will offer Thanksgiving specials; check their websites.
December 2025 in Margate
- Christmas at Lucy the Elephant / Tree Lighting
Event Description: Lucy the Elephant usually gets decked out for the holidays! There might be a tree lighting event by Lucy, special holiday tours, or chances to see Santa. It's a truly unique Margate Christmas experience.
Address: Lucy the Elephant, 9200 Atlantic Ave, Margate City, NJ 08402.
Cost: Tour fees or special event pricing may apply. Outdoor viewing is free.
Children/Pets: Magical for children! Pets are not allowed inside Lucy but can enjoy the festive atmosphere outside.
Parking: Limited street parking; look for spots on Atlantic or side streets.
More Info: Keep an eye on Lucy the Elephant's event page.
- Margate menorah Lighting (if scheduled)
Event Description: The Margate community often comes together for a public Menorah lighting ceremony during Hanukkah, celebrating the festival of lights with songs and camaraderie.
Address: Often held at a central public location, possibly near the JCC or a local park. Specifics TBD.
Cost: Free.
Children/Pets: A wonderful family-friendly community event. Leashed pets welcome if held outdoors.
Parking: Street parking near the event location.
More Info: Check with the Margate JCC or local community groups for Hanukkah event schedules.
January 2026 in Margate
- New Year’s Day Beach Stroll to Lucy
Event Description: Start the year with a refreshing walk on Margate’s beautiful beaches. Make Lucy the Elephant your destination! It’s a great way to embrace the quiet beauty of the Shore in winter.
Address: Any beach access in Margate, walking towards Lucy the Elephant at 9200 Atlantic Ave.
Cost: Free.
Children/Pets: Great for all ages. Leashed pets will enjoy the romp on the beach (confirm off-season pet rules).
Parking: Easy street parking along the beach in January.
More Info: Just pick your favorite beach entrance and go!
- Cozy Dinners and Local Shopping
Event Description: January in Margate is perfect for enjoying its excellent restaurants without the summer crowds. Many local boutiques and shops also remain open, offering a more relaxed shopping experience. Look for off-season specials!
Address: Various restaurants and shops along Ventnor and Amherst Avenues, and throughout Margate.
Cost: Varies.
Children/Pets: Restaurants are child-friendly. Some shops may allow well-behaved, leashed pets.
Parking: Generally easy street parking.
More Info: Explore the business directory on Margate Has More.
Margate offers a unique blend of iconic landmarks, community fun, and peaceful beach living, especially in the wonderful fall and winter months. Come see what makes it so special!
Search for vacation rentals here and discover your Margate escape!
Can't quite find what you're looking for, or need help securing a rental around these event times? Our dedicated team is here to assist! Please check our office locations and contact information here.
One more amazing Shore spot to cover! Stay tuned!