Despite a dreary and rainy Memorial Day weekend, one of the Jersey Shore’s most popular seasonal events is still serving up food.
The Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival is back in Monmouth Park this weekend, with around 30 food trucks rolling in despite the forecast.
“We get a great crowd out here for racing and the trucks. Obviously, the weather is keeping everybody away this Memorial Day weekend,” said Mike Lazur with the Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival. “Some people still braved the elements yesterday, the cold, the windy day. Today, the rain is definitely keeping some people away right now. We’re hoping the weather turns and gets a little better.”
The annual event has long been a Memorial Day weekend favorite, combining horse racing with a wide range of food trucks. But for many businesses, Sunday’s steady rain meant fewer people than usual in attendance.
Still, for those who did make the trip, the weather had at least one upside: shorter lines and easier access to the food.
“The rain isn’t stopping us. We heard there were food trucks here, so we’re like, all right, we’re going to be here regardless,” said Patrick of Bayville.
“Especially Memorial Day weekend,” added Jason, also from Bayville. “It’s a bummer no one else is really able to go out of their house today, but we’re making the most of it.”
Vendors are hoping clearer skies will bring a stronger turnout for the final day.
“It’s my first time at the Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival, and I was really, really looking forward to it,” said Giovanna Russo of Bella Ciao Pizza. “But unfortunately, the weather had to take a little beating on us. But it’s all good.”
In the meantime, Russo said they are staying ready and keeping the food hot.
“Hopefully tomorrow will be our saving day.”
Gates are set to reopen Monday at 11 a.m. at Monmouth Park.