NJ Weekend Events: Major Air Show, BBQ + Bacon, Vegan Food Fest

NEW JERSEY — Looking for something to do this weekend in New Jersey? Hear the roar of fighter jets, grab some beer and BBQ, or celebrate local history at one of these local events.

Power in the Pines air show and exhibition (Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst)

A major air show is returning to the Joint Base for the first time since 2018. “Power in the Pines” is free and the general public is invited to attend on Saturday and Sunday, May 20 and 21. The show has a full lineup of air performers, static ground displays of aircraft and equipment, and an array of activities and demonstrations. (Read more on Patch)

Address: Three gates will be open to the public. Visitors can enter at the main gate at McGuire Boulevard, and the Lang Lois Gate at the McGuire RV storage lot, both of which are accessible from Route 616 ( Wrightstown-Cookstown Road/East Main Street). The third gate that will be open to the public is on the Pemberton side at Route 68, off Fort Dix Road.

Beer BBQ Bacon Showdown (Morris Co.)

Sample beer from 30 New Jersey breweries and try mouthwatering BBQ and bacon creations in this festival featuring only Garden State beer. This event benefits the Chester First Aid Squad. A panel of “celebrity judges” will choose the best of the best, along with People’s Choice awards for Best Dish and Best Beer.

VIP admission begins at noon Saturday, and general admission is from 1-5 p.m. Tickets begin at $70, or $20 if you are not drinking.

Address: 161 Hanover Ave., Morris Plains NJ (Mennen Arena Field)

Vegan Food Festival (Monmouth Co.)

If vegan food is more your thing, check out the 2023 Asbury Park Vegan Food Festival on Saturday and Sunday. More than 90 vendors are signed up, from vegan chefs to plant-based fashion and products. Tickets are available here, and kids under 13 get in for free. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days.

Address: Bradley Park (Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park NJ)

Basking Ridge Charter Day (Somerset Co.)

This event celebrates the 263rd anniversary of the Charter of Bernards Township and showcases community groups, businesses and talent. Historical shows and student art projects will commemorate the township's long history. The event will also feature a street fair, rides and amusements, entertainment, and food.(Read more on Patch.)

Address: Downtown Basking Ridge: Street fair is on Finley Avenue and Henry Street; student art show and historical display are at Westminster Hall. Rides and amusements will be held on the Oak Street School Field.

Great Cleanup, Jersey City

Want to help clean up the community? For the first time since the pandemic, the Great Jersey City Cleanup returns this Saturday, May 20, 2023. (Read more on Patch.)

The 2023 cleanup event takes place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at six locations. To participate, visit the Serve Jersey City website at jcnj.org/ServeJC.