Summer in New Jersey isn’t just about boardwalks, beaches, fresh lemonade and ice cream. It's also about spending quality time with the ones we love most, and that includes our dogs.

Across the state, from Cape May to Jersey City, families are making their summer memories even more special by including their four-legged companions at outdoor festivals and events.

Why New Jersey Is the Perfect Place for Dog-Loving Families

New Jersey towns are creating dog-friendly experiences for pet-loving families and for everyone that attends these.

Dogs aren’t just pets, they're my kids in my family.

Read More: Sue's Dog Taffy Doing Funny-Human Things

There’s something truly heartwarming about seeing pup wagging its tail to a New Jersey band in the park or a cutie doggie licking an ice cream cone or "Pup Cup".

Spotlight on 4 Must-See Dog-Friendly Events This Summer

June 20th, 2025 - 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm - Barking Lots Sips & Brews - Food trucks, cocktails, live music, cornhole, games and so much more. It's a FREE event and is a fundraiser for Animal Welfare Association and its mission to save homeless animals. 509 Centennial Blvd., Voorhees, NJ

June 26th, 2025Batdog Celebration - Trenton Thunder Ballpark, Trenton - Bring your dogs! It doesn't stop there at Trenton Thunder - August 18th, 2025 is Bark in the Park.

June 28th, 2025 - Live bands, vendors, drink specials for dogs and their owners and so much more. There's a yappy hour, also. FREE tickets are available by checking out their website Barkchella Dog & Human Party - Newark Brewery, Newark

August 23rd, 2025 - Pupstock - Dog activities, puppy foam party, splash zone, and more. Pet adoptions, live music and Yappy Hour. This sounds like a lot of fun with our four-legged friend. Sussex County Fairgrounds, Augusta, NJ

Because Our Dogs Deserve to Be Part of Every Memory

Thanks to njfamily.com for these dog-friendly events. These moments remind us why we love our dogs so much. They just love to be with us at every moment.

Local towns are making it easier than ever to bring our dogs along with leash-friendly setups, shaded areas, and even dog-themed events.

So this summer, pack a water bottle, grab some treats, and hit up a festival with your best friend. Because in New Jersey, dogs make everything better.

LOOK: The most popular dog breeds in America

Using the American Kennel Club's 2023 rankings, released on April 9, 2024, Stacker compiled a ranking of the 100 most popular dog breeds in the U.S.

Gallery Credit: Stacker

WOW: 19 Exotic-Looking Animals Surprisingly Found in America

While some are native and others arrived by accident, there are animals living quite happily in the U.S. that will make you say, “No way!” From seriously big cats to the pinkest bird you’ve ever seen, here are some of the most exotic creatures calling America home.

Gallery Credit: Stephen Lenz

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