North Bergen’s Summer on the River returns Wednesday with free music, food, and ferries

Picture this: a warm evening along the Hudson River, the stage lights coming up, a bounce house filling with kids’ laughter, and neighbors you haven’t seen since last summer handing you a plate of complimentary food.

That’s what North Bergen’s Summer on the River is promising again this Wednesday, July 26, from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Waterfront Park.

The free event includes a live performance by The Jersey Boys, children’s activities, bounce houses, giveaways, raffles, and prizes. And because parking is tight near the park, the township is running free shuttle buses from several neighborhoods and senior buildings.

“Summer on the River is just one more special evening that reminds us what makes North Bergen such a wonderful place to call home,” Mayor Nick Sacco said in a statement. “There’s nothing better than seeing families, neighbors, and friends enjoying our beautiful waterfront together, and I hope everyone will join us for a fun-filled evening of great music, food, and community.”

A tradition that started small

Summer on the River began a few years ago as a simple idea: get people down to the waterfront they pay taxes for. The park itself, opened in 2016 after decades of industrial use, was a community win. Now it’s the backdrop for an event that has become a summer staple.

The pandemic canceled the 2020 edition. But since 2021, the township has brought it back, expanding the shuttle service after hearing from seniors and families who couldn’t easily get there by car.

What it means for North Bergen families

For many residents, this is the easiest night out all summer. No tickets. No parking headaches. Just show up at one of the shuttle stops and ride free.

The shuttle schedule is designed to hit the biggest residential pockets. Stops at 13th Street, McKinley School, Franklin School, 8811 Bergenline Avenue, and 9060 Palisade Avenue all start at 5 p.m. or 5:45 p.m. Senior buildings — 6121 Grand Avenue, 6299 Grand Avenue, 6800 Columbia Avenue, and the Stonehenge complex — have their own earlier pickups starting at 5 p.m.

Park and Public Property Commissioner Hugo Cabrera put it plainly: “This event is all about bringing our community together and making the most of North Bergen’s incredible waterfront, so whether you’re coming for the live entertainment, the activities for the kids, or simply to spend time with family and friends, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”

Voices from the community

The Jersey Boys — a tribute group covering Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons — will take the stage around 7 p.m. Last year, hundreds of people spread blankets and chairs across the grass. Some danced. Some just watched the river and the Manhattan skyline light up.

No official word yet on whether the event will return next year, but the mayor’s office says it has been a consistent crowd-pleaser. The shuttle service alone costs the township several thousand dollars, but officials say it’s worth it to make sure everyone can come.

What to do if you want to go

Just show up at a shuttle stop by the listed time. The last shuttle back from the park leaves at 8:45 p.m. Bring a blanket or a lawn chair. No coolers or outside alcohol, but food is free while it lasts.

Rain date is Thursday, July 27.

For updates, check the township’s website or call the North Bergen Recreation Department at 201-392-2103.

Wednesday night, the river will be filled with boats, and the park will be filled with neighbors. That’s the kind of summer evening that makes a town feel like a home.