9 ways to celebrate National New Jersey Day

New Jerseyans are pretty much born with bragging rights. 

Despite our small state being the punchline for jokes and stereotyped a million different ways, anyone from the Garden State knows that New Jersey is truly one of a kind. 

The state isn’t simply Springsteen and the Sopranos, or beaches and Pine Barrens — although those are pretty amazing things we get to represent with pride. 

In fact, our state’s achievements date back to the very beginnings of this country. 

As July 27 rolls around, National New Jersey Day honors being the third state to ratify the U.S. Constitution, the rich and illustrious culture of the nation’s most densely populated state welcomes countless ways to celebrate, wherever your exit may be. 

Get a pork roll egg and & cheese for breakfast

Starting National New Jersey day with this beloved salty breakfast staple just makes sense. Whether it’s pork roll or Taylor Ham to you, the beauty of this sandwich is it’s simplicity as well as it’s customization — most stick to tried and true trio of salt, pepper and ketchup, (but New Jersey rock legend Bon Jovi said prefers his with mustard). If salty breakfast meat isn’t your cup of tea, get a bagel instead. Many even say New Jersey bagels are better than New York’s.

Visit a local farmer’s market/buy local produce

It’s not called the Garden State for no reason — New Jersey is home to vast stretches of farmland abundant with fruits and vegetables that feed not only locals, but the rest of the country as well. Support farmers in your area and stop by your local farmer’s market for some Jersey corn and fresh blueberries (the state fruit). Don’t forget to stock up on a few iconic Jersey tomatoes in their peak growing season. 

Head to the Jersey Shore

People from all over the world vacation at the Jersey Shore. It’s not just the soft sands for sunbathing that attracts them, but the endless miles of boardwalks that overlook the Atlantic shoreline as well. New Jersey is home to the first boardwalk in the country, so taking a stroll on the nearest boardwalk and breathing in the ocean air is a quintessential activity for celebrating the state. The vibrant colors of a Jersey Shore sunrise or sunset bring peace to any viewer. 

Eat at a local diner

Nothing says Americana like a diner — the chrome exteriors, neon signs and the enticing cake display upon arrival practically scream U.S.A. Despite their decline over the years, New Jersey still has over 400 diners where you can grab a quick meal at nearly any hour of the day. The state’s impressive amount of laid-back eateries even give it the nickname of “the diner capital of the world.” When you’re hungry after driving for long stretches of time on the highway or simply want chocolate chip pancakes at midnight, a diner can always be found in the Garden State. 

Take a stroll at a historic park, forest or site

As one of the original Thirteen Colonies, historic sites from the Revolutionary War era can be found all across New Jersey — from pristinely preserved pre-war homes, historic parks in full bloom with scenic overlooks, and monuments that honor New Jersey’s significant role in the birth of the nation. Slip back into time on an old battlefield or merely bask in the state’s natural charm of the past. 

Stream New Jersey artists

Lana Del Rey once said, “Springsteen is the king, don’t you think?” and pretty much any New Jerseyan will agree. Aside from ‘The Boss,’ household names like Whitney Houston, Jon Bon Jovi, Queen Latifah, Frank Sinatra, Dionne Warwick, SZA and Lauryn Hill all hail from The Garden State. On National New Jersey Day, fill your ears with the melodic raps of Paterson’s Fetty Wap or the powerful lyrics of Belleville’s My Chemical Romance — There’s an NJ musician out there for everyone. 

Eat international cuisine

New Jersey is recognized as a major cultural hub for Italian Americans, so it’s no secret that we have the best pizza and pasta in the country. But New Jersey’s incredibly diverse population ushers in eateries offering culinary dishes from cultures all over the globe. Restaurants offering Latin, Caribbean, African and Asian cuisines can be found statewide, with something new to try for every foodie. 

Drive through a jughandle

This isn’t necessarily a way to celebrate the state, but something you’ll probably end up doing anyways. Missed your turn somewhere? Don’t worry, there’s likely a jughandle you can turn onto. 

Get gas 

After driving all day, pull up to your nearest gas station and let the gas attendant know your preferred amount for filling up your tank. Even with higher gas prices, “Twenty regular cash,” still rolls off the tongues of many New Jerseyans with ease. Appreciate the fact that you can sit comfortably in your car while doing so.