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To mark National Farmers Market Week, the New Jersey Department of Agriculture will distribute free Jersey Fresh grape tomatoes to beachgoers at the Jersey Shore.

As part of a move to highlight the state’s tomato season, NJDA’s marketing team will be out Aug. 5 in Wildwood, Atlantic City and Seaside Heights to give away produce.

Tomatoes will be available beginning at 11:30 a.m. until supplies last at the following locations:

• Wildwood: at the end of East Schellenger Avenue at the boardwalk near Morey’s Piers
• Atlantic City: at the end of New York Avenue near Rita’s Water Ice
• Seaside Heights: near the end of Grant Avenue in Seaside Heights

New Jersey is annually among the top 10 producers of tomatoes in the U.S. In 2023, the state harvested 60 million pounds of tomatoes on 2,400 acres for a production value of $36.2 million, according to the United States Department of Agriculture. 

NJDA Secretary Ed Wengryn said, “New Jersey’s reputation for its great tasting tomatoes is well-earned and they have a flavor that is unmatched.”

“The grape tomatoes we will be distributing can be eaten immediately as a snack or used in a variety of recipes and dishes. We encourage everyone to purchase Jersey Fresh tomatoes and other Jersey Fresh produce throughout the growing season,” he said.

New Jersey’s tomato season begins in early July and lasts through the end of October. Visit FindJerseyFresh.com to see where tomatoes are available locally and to find recipe ideas.