Wind and rain swept across the Jersey Shore on Memorial Day Saturday, but the dreary weather did little to deter crowds from visiting the Wildwood boardwalk for the unofficial start of summer.
Sunday, May 24, 2026 3:01AMWind and rain swept across the Jersey Shore on Memorial Day Saturday, but the dreary weather did little to deter crowds from visiting the Wildwood boardwalk for the unofficial start of summer.
Strong gusts greeted beachgoers in North Wildwood, where foam-topped waves rolled in and sand blew for blocks. The conditions were noisy and blustery, with the sound of wind carrying across the shoreline.
"Nothing could keep us away," said Jessica Reigner of Collegeville, who spent the day at the shore with her daughter, Trinity. Reigner said indoor attractions offered an alternative to the weather.
"The arcade is the place to be, Sam's is the place to be, the crowds are still down," she said. Sam's Pizza Palace, a boardwalk staple since 1957, drew steady business despite the rain. A line stretched out the door as customers waited for slices, keeping staff busy on a day that typically marks the beginning of the summer season.
"I heard some people were leaving because of the weather, but everybody has to eat and get gas, I guess," said owner Anthony Zuccarello. "I've been doing this a long time and people still come up here, we have a tradition here, people come Memorial Day and we're busy because of the tradition," he said. Visitors from across the region made the trip regardless of conditions.
Gina D'Alterio of South Philadelphia said her family drove from Ocean City to grab their favorite boardwalk food.
"We wanted to get our famous fries that we love so much and Sam's," D'Alterio said. "Might as well, instead of being in Philly, be down here enjoying ourselves. " Along the boardwalk, groups in sweatshirts and rain jackets strolled between shops and eateries, embracing the holiday weekend despite the weather. Some events were affected by the stormy conditions.
Organizers postponed the start of the Saturday Wildwood Farmer's Market and weather impacted activities at the Wildwoods International Kite Festival. Even so, younger visitors appeared unfazed. Nine-year-old Trinity Reigner said she planned to stick with her usual favorites. American flags marking the upcoming 250th anniversary of the nation lined sections of the boardwalk, signaling a busy season ahead as Wildwood prepares for summer events and celebrations.
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