Summer Sets

The Summer season in Atlantic City, NJ was kicked off with two great events that commemorated Juneteenth on June 19, 2025, at Oscar E McClinton Park and closed out the celebration of Black Music Month with Free Concert on June 21, 2025, in Gardner's Basin.

It was beautiful day of fun, family, and celebration as the African American community of SNJ gathered for the 8th Annual Juneteenth Cookout (derived from combining June and Nineteenth as referring to June 19, 1865, the date of the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation) in McClinton Park. The first celebration of Juneteenth dates back to 1866 but was acknowledged as a federal holiday in 2021.

The free event was organized by the nonprofit UBUNTU THE COMMUNITY and sponsored in conjunction with the City of Atlantic City, CRDA, ACYS. The day included delicious food, music of all genres, creative arts, and recreation for the young and young at heart. Local vendors and entrepreneurs were available goods ranging from food and desserts, jewelry and fragrances, to urban fashion. It was great way to start summer.

One of the most highly anticipated summer events in Atlantic City is the return of the Free Summer Concerts at Gardners Basin presented by the National R&B Society INC. The line up of artists is always impressive and includes some of the best talents of the 70's disco and funk, 80 R&B and Pop, and 90s new Jack Swing. Headlining the stage included platinum and gold selling artists Melisa Morgan, First Choice, The System, Jeff Redd, Lilo Thomas, Joe Bataan, Helen Brunner & Terry Jones and Allure.

Opening acts included Judah Dorrington & Paradise, The Cason Express Show Band, and Sis Dash. Hosted by Maurice "The Voice" Watts with music by DJ Fah D, the concert is always one of the best.

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