The John DeBella Show

Weekdays 5:30am–9:00am

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We’ve made it out of the winter weather, the cold temps and the just downright miserable all weekend rain from 2 weeks ago. In 2 weeks, it’s one of the best weekends of the year in our area. You can feel summer rounding the bend. The New Jersey beaches open up, and you’ve probably already made your plans to get down the shore. If you don’t have any plans and you’re looking to fill out your weekend, here are 3 things to do around the Philadelphia area.

1. Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest

Each summer they turn the ice rink area into a sort of boardwalk/carnival atmosphere. The ice skating rink becomes a roller skating rink, they have a few carnival rides and games. There is a miniature golf course plus plenty of food and drinks. Bring the kids for some rides, games and funnel cake. Then get yourself a drink at The Lodge Bar. Getting in is free, then you pay separately for each thing you decide to do. Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest

2. Do Some Day Drinking Around the City

Maybe leave the kiddos with the grandparents or at home for this one. Philadelphia has a ton of great craft breweries and bars in general. Hopefully the weather for Memorial Day will allow for some outside under the sun day drinking. Visit Philly has a great guide to breweries within a 10 minute walk of the subway.

3. Find a Memorial Day Parade

There some great parades throughout the area that celebrate Memorial Day the right way. Find one near you and head over. Media, PA has one that starts Monday morning at 10a. Check out the details here.

Whatever your Memorial Day 2023 plans may be, enjoy the weekend, the weather and the time with family and friends. Summer is almost upon us!


Related:

Dog-Friendly Beaches At The Jersey Shore You Need To Visit This Summer

If you’re a dog owner you may be wondering if there are dog-friendly beaches in this area. There are, and they’re right at the Jersey Shore!

Yes, you and your pup are welcome, even during summer. Typically, dogs are not allowed on the beach during the on-season. For good reason, too. Crowded beaches with people who may or may not like dogs are probably not a god idea for your pup. In order to prevent issues, beach towns tend to only allow dogs on beaches from (roughly) October to April.

But, there is a way for you to take your dog to the beach without freezing solid. And that is the beautiful world of dog-friendly beaches. A world of sand and sun and happy doggies frolicking in the water. These beaches are close enough for a day-trip from Philadelphia, and your dog will thank you. The spring and summer get pretty dang hot. It’s only fair to let your fur-baby get in on the fun of a shore trip.

A tip, though. Be prepared for sand, and a lot of it. As long as you account for a wet and sandy puppy, it’ll be a good time. But that’s the fun of it, right? Letting your dog enjoy something you enjoy, too. It’s okay that they get a bit messy on ya!

If you’re looking to make a vacation of it, don’t fret. There are also dog-friendly rentals in every shore town. So you and your furry friend can stay and lounge in style. Make the trip to check out one of these awesome dog-friendly beaches.

  • Longport Dog Beach

    Chicago's Doggy Beach

    Photo by Tim Boyle/Getty Images

    Longport Dog Beach is an off-leash dog beach located at Malibu Beach Wildlife Management area in Egg Harbor Township, NJ. Dogs of all sizes are allowed to play in the sand and water, unrestricted. It’s open year-round for your pup to play. But of course, what makes it paw-mazing is that you can visit during the summer months. A rarity at the Jersey Shore!

  • Wildwood Dog Park & Beach

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    Photo by Matt Cardy/Getty Images

    Look for the giant fire hydrant sculpture. There you will find a doggy heaven. Wildwood Dog Park and Beach in Wildwood, NJ is a dog-friendly spot where owners can walk their dog under the boardwalk and access the beach. There is plenty of room for you and your fur-baby to bask in the sun and take a swim. Dogs must be leashed on the beach itself, but the fenced-in dog park is leash-free!

  • Eighth Avenue Dog Beach

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    Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

    The Eighth Avenue Dog Beach in Asbury Park, NJ welcomes pups all year long. From September to May, you dog is free to play all day long. In the summertime, though, you and your doggo should plan an early morning or evening visit. Dogs are prohibited between 8:30 am and 6:00 pm. But when your dog can step on the beach, an off-leash run at this popular beach will be in order.