Stock photo via Pexels<\/p>\n
Families from across the Philadelphia region and South Jersey packed Jersey Shore beaches and boardwalks this Labor Day weekend, treating the holiday as a last stand for summer before most local students return to class Tuesday, FOX 29 reported.<\/p>\n
From Ocean City to the Wildwood boardwalk, the long weekend brought multi-generational groups seeking one more stretch of sand time.<\/p>\n
Donna Taylor-Stewart and her husband Sidney, former Northeast Philadelphia residents now living in Williamstown, were among those making the most of the holiday.<\/p>\n
Taylor-Stewart told FOX 29 the beach weather Friday had been ideal, and the couple spent the day eating boardwalk food and enjoying the crowds.<\/p>\n
Sidney Stewart noted gas prices had climbed roughly 20 cents per gallon within a week. He said the family offset the cost by fueling at Sam’s Club.<\/p>\n
Families Squeeze in Birthdays and Traditions<\/p>\n
Richie Noia, 52, of Manalapan marked his birthday at the shore with his wife Pamela and their children, including son Lincoln, who described a weekend itinerary of waterpark visits, a theme park trip, and shopping for squishies.<\/p>\n
Pamela Noia told FOX 29 the plan was relaxed: some mini golf, some family time. Two of the couple’s children said they were genuinely looking forward to seeing friends at school.<\/p>\n
Eleanor Fortino, 92, of Marlton, told FOX 29 the shore has been a family fixture since her children were small. Three generations now make the trip.<\/p>\n
Her son Stephen Fortino said the tradition extends to a third generation \u2014 he has three daughters, one of whom has three children of her own, and the family recently sought a larger shore rental to accommodate everyone.<\/p>\n
Ocean City Businesses Brace for a Busy Close<\/p>\n