TINTON FALLS, N.J. - s4story -- With the Atlantic Ocean as its backdrop, the Jersey Shore Partnership welcomed hundreds of guests to Sandy Hook on May 18 for Summer Celebration 2026, an annual event honoring the leadership, partnerships, and shared commitment behind protecting New Jersey's coastline.

Held at Gateway National Recreation Area and inspired by this year's theme, "America's Shore: 250 Years of Coastal Legacy," the evening celebrated the history, resilience, and stewardship that continue shaping the Jersey Shore as the nation approaches America's 250th anniversary.

Widely regarded as the unofficial kickoff to summer at the Jersey Shore, the event brought together business leaders, elected officials, environmental advocates, tourism professionals, nonprofit organizations, and community partners committed to strengthening New Jersey's coastal future.

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"Summer Celebration is a reminder of what makes the Jersey Shore so special and why protecting it matters," said Grace Hanlon, executive director of the Jersey Shore Partnership. "Our beaches support local communities, strengthen the economy, and serve as a vital line of defense for our coastal region."

The evening featured live entertainment by Brian Kirk and the Jirks, patriotic performances by the New Jersey Fifes and Drums, a presentation by the Naval Weapons Station Earle Color Guard, and a showcase of classic American automobiles reflecting the Americana-inspired theme.

Guests also enjoyed culinary tastings and beverages from more than 40 restaurants, chefs, caterers, and beverage partners from across New Jersey.

Summer Celebration 2026 honored the New Jersey Food Council with the Business and Industry Award; New Jersey State Senators Vin Gopal and Declan J. O'Scanlon Jr. with Legislative Leadership Awards; and Tony MacDonald, former director of the Monmouth University Urban Coast Institute and current senior ocean policy fellow, with The Hon. S. Thomas Gagliano Founder Award.

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The Honorable Joe and Susan Kyrillos served as honorary dinner chairs. Frank and Valerie Montecalvo of the Montecalvo/Bayshore Family of Companies served as dinner chairs. Jeanette Hoffman, president of Marathon Public Affairs, and Sharon Franz, sales and marketing director of Steel Pier, served as event chairs.

Proceeds from Summer Celebration support the Jersey Shore Partnership Foundation's educational and advocacy initiatives focused on coastal protection, beach replenishment, restoration, and long-term shoreline resilience throughout New Jersey.

About The Jersey Shore Partnership Foundation: The Jersey Shore Partnership Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to securing consistent state and federal funding for New Jersey coastal protection, beach replenishment, and restoration while advancing long-term shoreline resilience through education, advocacy, and bipartisan collaboration.

Please use the Google Drive photo link below for media use. Additional photos are available upon request. Photo credit: All is Sharp Photography: https://tinyurl.com/2026JSPSC