The Monmouth Park food truck festival rain challenge has not stopped one of the Jersey Shore’s Memorial Day weekend traditions from serving visitors in Oceanport, New Jersey.
The Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival continued at Monmouth Park through wet and chilly weekend conditions, with around 30 food trucks taking part despite lower-than-usual crowds. The annual event combines food vendors, live entertainment and horse racing during the holiday weekend.
Rain Slows Crowds at Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival
Festival organizers said the weather affected turnout during the weekend, especially as steady rain made it harder for families and racing fans to spend time outdoors.
Mike Lazur with the Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival said the event usually draws strong crowds for both racing and food trucks, but the Memorial Day weekend weather kept many visitors away. He said some guests still came out during cold and windy conditions, while Sunday’s rain made attendance more difficult.
For visitors who braved the weather, the smaller crowd created shorter lines and quicker access to food. Patrick of Bayville said the rain was not enough to stop the trip after hearing food trucks were at the venue. Jason, also from Bayville, said the weather was disappointing for Memorial Day weekend, but they were still trying to enjoy the outing.
Vendors Hope for Stronger Monday Turnout
The lower turnout also affected food vendors, many of whom depend on busy holiday crowds. Giovanna Russo of Bella Ciao Pizza said it was her first time at the Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival and that the weather made the weekend more difficult, but the team continued keeping food ready for visitors.
Monmouth Park’s official event listing says the Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival runs from Saturday, May 23, 2026, through Monday, May 25, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The venue also lists live music from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM during the festival.
The final day could still matter for vendors and organizers if clearer weather brings more holiday visitors to Monmouth Park. For local families, the event remains one of the Jersey Shore’s notable Memorial Day weekend food and racing stops.
