Here we are, at the end of the summer season. Kids are back in school, and long summer evenings grow short. On such a weekend, the answer I’m choosing is to go down the shore for the last of the beach days of the year. If you’re like me, and plan to go to the New Jersey beaches, I’m including some fun things to do, besides soaking in the sun and the sound of the ocean. If you’re staying in Bucks this weekend, I am also including some things to do in and around Bucks.
Friday, September 2: In Bucks tonight, head out to the Great Barn Taphouse for live music from Paradise Rose, a Guns ‘N Roses tribute band. They go on at 8 p.m., but John Brennan Duo starts playing blues at 4 p.m., for a more low-key vibe early in the evening. Great Barn Taphouse is located at 1500 Main St. in Warrington.
Down the Shore, head to Long Beach for Fire Pit Friday Concert from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The band tonight is called Sneak Attack and they play covers from Taylor Swift to Weezer. The music seems like a good way to get pumped up for the long weekend. The concert is free, and is located at 6805 Long Beach Blvd.
Saturday, September 3: In Bucks County, head out to the 56th Annual Polish-American Family Festival. The festival runs this weekend and next in Doylestown at the The National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa (654 Ferry Road). It’s the region’s largest Polish festival, attracting over 25,000 guests a year. While you’re there, enjoy amusement rides and a “Little Circus,” along with live entertainment on two stages. Entertainment includes polka and disco polo dancing, along with polish folk dancing. Of course, beyond all the entertainment, clearly go for the Polish food. They will be serving favorites like kielbasa, perogi, placki (potato pancakes), gołąbki (stuffed cabbage rolls), pastries and polish beer. There is also a Polish vodka tasting, if you so desire. Tickets are $12 per person. There is also a festival sweepstakes with a $10,000 grand prize. Tickets to enter are $5.
If you’re at the shore, why not head out for an air show at Naval Airstation Wildwood Aviation Museum. Their 26th annual Airfest is going on all weekend. There will be plenty to see and do there – lectures, helicopters, F-14’s, food trucks, a beer garden, live music and more. The Airfest is located at 500 Forrestal Road, Cape May Airport. 
Sunday, September 4: In Bucks, the last Sunday Stroll of the season is happening Bristol Borough from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. There will be 8 food trucks, live entertainment and lots of vendors. While you’re there, you can also stop in to any of the local shops or restaurants on Mill Street.
If you’re in New Jersey, head to Wildwood for their annual End of Summer Block party. The event goes from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. in Fox Park. There will be live music from multiple bands, food vendors, craft vendors, a bounce house and more. Admission is free.
Monday, September 5: Enjoy the fruits of your labor and relax. Have a barbeque. While nothing says backyard barbeque like hot dogs, hamburgers, and BBQ chicken, perhaps try something a little different on the grill. Last weekend, I made Caprese Baked Brie on the grill. It was a winner, and it looks really impressive if you’re having guests over. It’s also a great appetizer while you’re prepping the rest of the food. Also, try out some grilled mini peppers. You can stuff them, or just grill them on a stick, and top with tzatziki. Here is a recipe. But what about dessert? If you’ve never grilled fruit, you’re missing out. Grilling fruit brings out all the sugar and sweetens up the fruit. Eat it like that, or top with ice cream, and you’re in for a treat. You can grill watermelon, peaches, pineapple, or even bananas. Get creative and enjoy the unofficial end of summer.
Happy Labor Day!
