Margate’s JCC Arts, Books & Culture Festival Celebrates Community Through Creativity

Each November, Margate’s Katz Jewish Community Center (JCC) transforms into a vibrant hub of art, music, and conversation for its annual Arts, Books & Culture Festival. Running from November 1 through November 25, 2025, this beloved month-long tradition brings together authors, performers, and neighbors to celebrate South Jersey’s creative spirit.

Explore Margate’s JCC Arts, Books & Culture Festival this November, featuring local authors, art exhibits, and live performances.

A Month of Culture and Connection

The festival, hosted at the Katz JCC located at 501 N. Jerome Avenue, offers more than 25 events ranging from book discussions and art exhibits to live music and film screenings. Many programs are free, while others require modest ticket fees to support the JCC’s community outreach.

Organizers describe the event as a way to connect generations through storytelling. This year’s schedule includes documentary viewings, artist meet-and-greets, and author lectures that highlight topics from Jewish heritage to contemporary social issues.

According to the JCC’s Village by the Shore program, which co-sponsors the festival, the lineup was designed to foster dialogue between students, seniors, and families.

Highlights to Expect

  • Local Authors on Stage: Several South Jersey writers will debut new books, followed by Q&A sessions.

  • Student Art Exhibition: Margate school students will display artwork inspired by community and belonging.

  • Film Nights: Screenings of independent documentaries, with discussions moderated by local educators.

  • Music Evenings: Performances featuring classical, jazz, and folk musicians from across the region.

The diversity of programming ensures something for everyone — from families seeking weekend entertainment to retirees exploring cultural enrichment.

Why It Resonates With Residents

Margate’s arts festival isn’t just about events; it’s about identity. Residents take pride in supporting local talent and welcoming artists who bring new perspectives to the Jersey Shore. For many attendees, the JCC represents a safe, inclusive space where creativity bridges generations.

A JCC program coordinator explained, “The festival brings art to life right here in our neighborhood — you don’t have to travel to Philadelphia to experience world-class culture.”

Local Collaboration at Its Best

Partnerships with schools, senior centers, and nearby towns amplify the festival’s impact. The involvement of Village by the Shore, a senior outreach initiative, ensures that older adults can easily access performances and discussions, fostering intergenerational connection.

The JCC also collaborates with local businesses that sponsor refreshments, supplies, and promotional materials, keeping the event locally rooted.

Margate Moments

There’s something timeless about hearing live music drift from the JCC auditorium on a crisp November evening. Couples linger in the lobby discussing a documentary; kids tug parents toward the art gallery where student paintings brighten the walls. It’s a reminder that Margate’s sense of community extends far beyond summer — art, literature, and laughter fill the off-season too.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a JCC member to attend? No — events are open to the public.

Are tickets required? Some events are free; others require small fees listed on the JCC website.

Is parking available? Yes, the JCC lot on Jerome Avenue provides free parking for all festival events.

Sources: Katz JCC official calendar; Downbeach Buzz; Shore Local News; Village by the Shore program information (Nov. 2025)

Ocean City, NJ