The Ave is Downtown Vineland. But it’s much more than just a collection of buildings and businesses. It’s a vibrant and thriving community that is the heart of Vineland.
From locally-owned shops and restaurants to cultural events and natural beauty, The Ave has something for everyone.
Make The Ave Your Third Place
Third Place refers to the social surroundings that are separate from the two usual social environments of home – “first place” and the workplace – “second place”.
The Ave in Downtown Vineland wants to be your Third Place. The Ave offers a vibrant and inviting atmosphere where you can meet up, relax, and connect with friends and family. With its diverse range of local businesses, and engaging events, The Ave provides a welcoming space for people of all ages, whether you’re looking for a great lunch or dinner spot, a unique shopping experience, or just a place to meet friends, The Ave has everything you need to make it your Third Place.
Hot Topics On The Ave
Downtown Vineland came alive with classic cars, live entertainment, and community spirit as the 34th annual Cruise Down Memory Lane returned to The Ave, drawing visitors from throughout South Jersey and beyond.
Over 400 classic, antique, and specialty vehicles lined Landis Avenue as residents and car enthusiasts gathered to celebrate automotive history and enjoy a near-perfect summer day in the heart of Vineland. The event featured a high concentration of American classics, amplifying the nostalgic atmosphere and giving younger generations a glimpse into the styles of yesteryear..
“Vehicle participation fluctuates from year to year,” says Andre Rivera, associate director at Main Street Vineland/VDID. “What remains consistent is the incredible public support and tremendous love people have for this event” Over 400 cars lined both sides of Landis Ave from 8th Street to 3rd Street. Cruise Down Memory Lane remains one of the largest and longest-running automotive events in the region.
“The real story is the hundreds of volunteer and staff hours that make Cruise Night possible,” says Rivera. The Cruise Down Memory Lane Committee, led for the last 12 years by Marvin Askins and Nancy Nordberg, managed vehicle check-in, load-in, and parking while multiple crews from Vineland Police, Public Works, and OEM ensured a safe environment for participants and spectators. Main Street Vineland serves as the coordinating office and liaison between the City and the committee.
From 5 pm to 8 pm, the event maintained a very relaxed, low-key atmosphere to it as thousands of people perused the show cars and chat about what’s under the hood. The vibe started to change a little after 8 pm, when the cruising hour started. As the sun starts to set and cars start hitting the street, many older citizens are transported to a time when “Cruising The Ave” was a weekly occurrence. This is where the heart of the event lies: the generational connection between past and present.
“It’s almost like car-lovers ASMR!” joked one spectator, referring to the sounds of revving engines and the occasional burnout echoing through downtown. But beneath the rumble of V8s was something deeper: a community gathering to celebrate a tradition that has endured for decades. As the final cars rolled off Landis Avenue, they left behind more than tire tracks—they left behind another chapter in one of Vineland’s most cherished traditions.
Who’s Vineland’s Top Dog? Voting is now open to decide the ultimate title Vineland’s Top Dog.
Got a good dog? Prove it. Eligible candidates have from May 1st to 31st to register their dog (see eligibility requirements) for the competition.
The first round of voting will begin on June 1st , and the winner will be announced at the Paws on The Ave Pet Expo on July 18th at the Vineland Convention Center.
A $15 registration fee is required for all candidates and includes:
- Official contest bandana
- (1) ticket to the Paws on The Ave Pet Expo
- A shot at local fame
The winner will be crowned on July 18th at the Paws on The Ave Pet Expo and receive:
- The title of Vineland’s Top Dog for one year
- Official commendation from the mayor’s office
- Opportunities to appear at other local events as a recognized dignitary
Eligibility Requirements
- Dog must reside within Vineland city limits
- Dog must be currently licensed with the City of Vineland (licensing information can be found at vinelandcity.org/licensing)
- Owner must be 18 years or older
- One entry per dog (owners may submit multiple dogs, but each requires a separate registration)
TAP HERE TO SIGN YOUR DOG UP
Main Street Vineland will be partnering with the Vineland Convention Center to host the Paws on The Ave Pet Expo on July 18 & 19 2026
🐾 Pet Expo – Vendor & Exhibitor Interest 🐾
We’re looking for animal-focused vendors, rescues, and pet-related businesses to join an upcoming pet expo focused on education, rescue, and animal-friendly products.
Vendor focus includes:
• Pet treats, accessories & enrichment
• Animal artwork & merchandise
• Pet-safe candles/soaps
• Wildlife or nature-inspired crafts
✅ Animal/nature-related vendors only
✅ Vendor insurance required
🚫 No general craft fair items
🚫 This is not a bring-your-pet event
Only approved & insured rescues will have animals onsite.
💚 Limited rescue spaces available (501c3 only)
No breeders • No live animal sales • No same-day adoptions
🐕 Pet-focused businesses welcome for informational tables
(Sitters, groomers, trainers, photographers, vet offices & more)
📩 Interested? Contact us for details!
Email: mainstreet@vinelandcity.org
