PHILADELPHIA, PA — The summer season is getting a celebratory start as Chickie’s & Pete’s teams up with the South Jersey Transportation Authority (SJTA) for their annual Free Toll Friday and 100 Days of Summer kickoff event. This much-anticipated Memorial Day weekend tradition is set to brighten the commute to the Jersey Shore with free tolls, complimentary Crabfries, family-friendly activities, and a heartfelt tribute to veterans.
On Friday, May 23, from 4 PM to 5 PM, Chickie’s & Pete’s will pay tolls for all eastbound travelers at the Egg Harbor Toll Plaza on the Atlantic City Expressway. Before this toll-free hour, summer festivities will take over the Frank S. Farley Plaza from 10 AM to 3 PM, complete with live entertainment, giveaways, and activities for all ages.
“Free Toll Friday is one of my favorite summertime traditions,” said Pete Ciarrocchi, Chairman and CEO of Chickie’s & Pete’s. “We love sending everyone off to the shore in good spirits before a big holiday weekend.”
Travelers stopping at Farley Plaza can indulge in complimentary Crabfries from Chickie’s & Pete’s food truck and explore over 70 vendors, exhibitions, and family-friendly attractions. Highlights include live radio broadcasts, a car show, a petting zoo with Funny Farm ambassadors, sidewalk chalk zones, and exhibits from local organizations like the Atlantic City International Airport Fire Department and The Hero Campaign.
“We’re excited to kick off our annual 100 Days of Summer celebration and welcome travelers passing through Hammonton on their way to their favorite Jersey Shore destination,” said SJTA Executive Director Stephen F. Dougherty. “This year’s festivities offer something for everyone, whether you’re enjoying our diverse food truck lineup, checking out classic cars, or browsing unique handmade goods. It’s a great way to enhance your summer travel experience.”
The day also marks the start of Chickie’s & Pete’s “Summer of Shellfish,” featuring a specialized seafood menu at their restaurants throughout the season. Guests can further support a meaningful cause by ordering the Patriot Punch cocktail, with proceeds benefiting The Patriot Fund, a local nonprofit that helps veterans reintegrate into civilian life.
Ciarrocchi’s personal connection to veterans inspires this annual initiative. “My dad and uncles were all in the military,” he shared. “My Uncle George, who was my restaurant mentor, won the Silver Star for bravery. Honoring them with Free Toll Friday feels like the right thing to do.”
Family fun and philanthropy will meet during the 100 Days of Summer celebration, which has become a Jersey Shore tradition. Visitors can explore attractions like the Farley Plaza’s 9/11 memorial and a scale replica of the Battleship New Jersey while enjoying the festive atmosphere. With an event designed to uplift spirits and celebrate community, Free Toll Friday is more than just a trip to the shore. It’s a reminder of shared values and the joy of kicking off summer together.
Mark your calendars, pack your bags, and head to the Atlantic City Expressway for an unforgettable start to summer.
To learn more about Chickie’s and Pete’s, visit www.ChickiesandPetes.com. For information on The Patriot Fund or to donate, visit patriotfundinc.org. To learn about the South Jersey Transportation Authority, visit www.sjta.com.
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