There’s an argument in New Jersey that will never truly be settled: is it Taylor Ham or is it Pork Roll?
This weekend, New Jerseyans finally have a chance to defend their side—with food, music and plenty of Jersey attitude.
The Jersey’s Pork Roll vs. Taylor Ham Food & Music Fest takes over Iron Peak Sports & Events in Hillsborough on Saturday, September 12, from noon to 7 p.m.
And yes, you’ll actually get to cast a vote.
Pick a Side
Festival vendors will be serving creative takes on New Jersey’s favorite breakfast meat, going well beyond the traditional egg-and-cheese sandwich. Guests can sample the creations and then cast their vote for Team Pork Roll or Team Taylor Ham. Of course, we all know this probably won’t settle anything.
North Jersey will continue ordering Taylor Ham, egg and cheese without hesitation, while much of the rest of the state will insist the package clearly says pork roll.
More Than Breakfast Sandwiches
Come hungry, because the festival isn’t limiting itself to the star of the show. Food vendors will also be serving BBQ, seafood, international dishes, desserts and other festival favorites.
There will also be live music throughout the day, a beer garden with beer and cocktails, craft and artisan vendors, and a Kids Adventure Zone featuring inflatables and games.
And because apparently pork roll versus Taylor Ham wasn’t enough of a battle for one afternoon, the festival is also bringing in ISPW Pro Wrestling for live matches throughout the day.
Bring the Dog, Too
Before the main festival begins, there’s a Pup Strut and 1-Mile Fun Walk at 11 a.m. Participants receive a commemorative event T-shirt, a treat for their dog and early access to the festival.
The Details
When: Saturday, September 12, 2026, 12 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Where: Iron Peak Sports & Events, 137 Mountain View Road, Hillsborough, NJ
Admission is $3.85 in advance or $5 at the door, and children 5 and under are free. Advance tickets can be purchased here
For just a few dollars, you get food vendors, live music, family activities, shopping, a beer garden and professional wrestling… all wrapped around an argument that may be more New Jersey than jughandles and arguing about whether Central Jersey exists.
So grab your friends, bring your appetite and prepare to defend your territory.
Antonietta LaVecchia has been a small business advocate for over two decades and has made it a mission to get communities to shop small and support local.