Be Nice to Jersey Week runs from July 6-12, 2026, challenging everyone to pause the jokes and appreciate the Garden State. Founded in 1985 by Lauren Barnett, this week encourages positive interactions and a deeper look at New Jersey’s unique contributions. Join us in spreading kindness, exploring local gems, and sharing what you love about New Jersey.
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Expected Be Nice to Jersey Week Deals
For Be Nice to Jersey Week, the focus shifts from commercial deals to community spirit and local pride. Businesses across New Jersey, from small shops to major attractions, can participate by highlighting local products, offering “Jersey-friendly” discounts, or hosting events that showcase the state’s positive attributes. Restaurants might feature dishes made with local ingredients, while tourism boards could promote hidden gems. Consider supporting local charities or participating in community clean-up efforts. We encourage everyone to perform acts of kindness and share positive stories about New Jersey throughout the week.
Platform Guide for Be Nice to Jersey Week
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #BeNiceToJersey. Share photos of your favorite New Jersey spots, local businesses, or acts of kindness.
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Mention @NatlToday and use #BeNiceToJerseyWeek. Tweet positive facts, historical tidbits, or personal stories about New Jersey to counter common stereotypes.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #BeNiceToJersey. Share local events, community initiatives, or simple ways to show appreciation for New Jersey.
Be Nice to Jersey Week Hero
Lauren Barnett
Be Nice to Jersey Week FAQs
When is Be Nice to Jersey Week?
Be Nice to Jersey Week 2026 runs from Monday, July 6, through Sunday, July 12. This annual observance encourages everyone to appreciate the Garden State and its residents.
Why was Be Nice to Jersey Week created?
Be Nice to Jersey Week was created in 1985 by Lauren Barnett to combat the long-standing and often unfair negative stereotypes and jokes directed at New Jersey. It’s a lighthearted call for kindness and appreciation.
What is New Jersey known for?
New Jersey is known for its diverse landscapes, from the iconic Jersey Shore beaches and pine barrens to bustling cities and rich agricultural lands. It’s also famous for its diners, historical sites, and significant contributions to industry and innovation.
How many people live in New Jersey?
As of recent estimates, New Jersey is home to approximately 9.3 million residents, making it one of the most densely populated states in the U.S. Its diverse population contributes to a rich cultural tapestry.
Be Nice to Jersey Week Activities
Take a trip
Appreciate New Jersey in the flesh this week, even if you're just staying there for easy access to New York. Who knows, you might actually like it! And if you don't, it's more fodder for your jokes.
Apologize to a New Jersey-an
Follow the suggestion of this week's esteemed founder, Lauren Barnett, and issue an apology to friends and family living in New Jersey. If you don't have any, she suggests directing a letter to New Jersey's local government. This is your opportunity to put your Jersey feud behind you and be the bigger person.
Listen to some Bruce Springsteen
You can credit this man for singlehandedly ending Jersey's reputation as simply the punchline of a joke. With his honest depictions of Jersey life, he made the city—gasp—cool again. The least you can do to repay his efforts is listen to some tunes!
Why We Love Be Nice to Jersey Week
We get to make fun of other states
During any normal week of the year, Jersey would get all the heat. But have you thought about how Texans love Texas so much recently? Or how tiny Rhode Island is? There are lots of states to make fun of, and this week is the perfect time to do it.
It forces comedians to branch out
One of the common complaints with Saturday Night Live in 1975 was how much their comedians relied on jokes about New Jersey. Sure, New Jersey jokes are funny, but this week reminds comedians around America not to get lazy. Everyone needs a little push to innovate once in a while!
We can appreciate Jersey's merits without judgement
We understand that this is a controversial opinion, but we at National Today actually like New Jersey. From its beautiful brick edifices to its proximity to New York, there are lots of good parts of New Jersey that get lost in a sea of derogatory jokes. And this is the day we can appreciate them without judgement from our peers. Photo by The U.S. National Archives
Be Nice to Jersey Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | July 6–12 | Sunday–Saturday |
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