Heading to Pennsville’s Septemberfest 2026? Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Pennsville’s longest-running community day is back at Riverview Beach Park. The parade hits Broadway in the morning. The park fills all afternoon. Fireworks close the night over the river. Here’s everything you need to know to attend.

When is Pennsville Septemberfest, and how long does it run?

Saturday, Sept. 12 — the Saturday after Labor Day, the same slot the town has used since 1977. The parade steps off at 11 a.m. The festival runs through dusk, with a fireworks show to end the night.

Where exactly is it happening?

Riverview Beach Park (5 N Broadway, Pennsville, NJ), along the Delaware.

The parade travels North Broadway / Route 49 and funnels people toward the park. The Shipyard at 60 Main St. sits next door on the old Riverview Inn site.

Is there parking — and where should I actually park?

Park in the open field in Riverview Beach Park. Note that the usual park entrance is frequently used as an exit on this day. Plan accordingly and follow police for traffic flow.

Campers are a separate system (see below). After fireworks, everyone leaves at once. Build in extra time.

Will any roads be closed?

Yes. Route 49 / North Broadway shuts for the parade around 10:30 a.m. Saturday. The parade starts at 11 a.m.

The line of march starts at the Acme / Pennsville Shopping Center on North Broadway and heads south down Broadway toward the park, from the shopping center toward Ferry Road. Town Hall is the commentary and judging spot.

Police block the route and side streets while the parade is moving. Historically the march runs about 90 minutes to two hours. The road reopens after the last unit clears and officers drop the barricades — wait for police, not the last float.

Get off Route 49 before 10:30 if you are coming from out of town.

Is it free to get in?

Yes. Admission to the parade and park is free. You pay for food, crafts, glow gear and ride tickets.

You can also participate in a 50/50 with the drawing at 8 p.m. You do not have to be present to win.

What’s actually there?

Rides: Carnival midway at the park.

Food: Fair food, drinks, treats and the committee barbecue. Vendors spread through the park.

Crafts and exhibits: 10-by-10 craft booths. Handmade goods, jewelry, wood, candles, church and rec fundraisers, exhibit tables. Carla Barnhart is still on the art contest. Glow merch sells during the day so people light up before fireworks.

Music: Live sets at the gazebo / bandstand all afternoon and night.

Pageant court: Miss Septemberfest 2026 is Phoebe, crowned Friday night. Jr. Miss was also crowned. Both should be in the parade. Jennifer Rowand handles Miss Septemberfest for the committee.

Fireworks: Over the river at dusk. Committee chair Ann Lake has said the show stays on the schedule even after tight years.

What’s the schedule?

~2 a.m.: Camper line starts forming (regulars).
5 a.m.: Campers may enter the park. Not before.
10:30 a.m.: Route 49 / North Broadway slated to close.
11 a.m.: Parade steps off. Five high school marching bands this year, plus fire companies, floats, community groups and local organizations. 2026 parade marshal is Dan.
12–2 p.m.: Shayds of Gray
2:30–4:30 p.m.: Collin Bunch Band
5–7 p.m.: Civil Holdup
7:30–9:30 p.m.: Legal Limit
8 p.m.: 50/50 drawing
Dusk: Fireworks

Confirm band times on the committee page if a set shifts.

Can I bring a camper?

Yes. You cannot roll into Riverview Beach Park until 5 a.m. Saturday. Most regulars start lining up around 2 a.m. for that gate.

Bring coffee, a flashlight and patience. Do not block Broadway or side streets while you wait. Follow rec-department and staff directions once rigs are allowed in. This is overnight staging for festival day, not a full-hookup campground. No dump station. Long walk to the midway.

Enter at 5 a.m., get set before the parade crowd hits, walk to Broadway for 11 a.m., then back to the park. After fireworks, expect a slow exit. Quiet hours and generator courtesy matter. You are in a neighborhood park, not a rally field.

Can I bring my dog? My kids? A cooler? A chair?

Kids, strollers, coolers and folding chairs are standard along Broadway and in the park.

Check the committee page for any posted rule. The Shipyard allows leashed, well-behaved dogs in most outdoor areas.

What should I wear, and what’s the weather play?

Opt for comfortable shoes and sunscreen as must-haves. Try to have a light outer layer for the river breeze after dark since South Jersey September can flip.

Pack water, cash plus a card, a small bag for parade candy and vendor finds, and ear protection for little kids at fireworks. Buy glow gear on site if you want the night look without packing it.

Weather

Morning: 79° and humidity with increasing cloudiness

Afternoon: 81° and mostly cloudy and humid with a shower in spots

Night: 71° and warm and humid with chances of rain

Is The Shipyard open?

Yes. Located on 60 Main St., a short walk from the park.

Music will be by the Collin Bunch Band at 6 p.m. with Carolina Blue supplying the food truck goodies.

What if I need help, get separated, or have an emergency?

Call 911 for an emergency. Pennsville Township Police will be easily accessible at this event.

Why does this festival matter here?

Pennsville’s Septemberfest started in 1977 as a continuation of a Bicentennial celebration held in Riverview Beach. Park. The event is held on the first Saturday of September after Labor Day and is a town-wide celebration with a parade, live music, amusement rides, and fireworks.

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