History of Medford Main Street
Historic Main Street Medford is home to a vibrant community of independent businesses working together to promote downtown through events, marketing, and collaboration. Discover the shops, restaurants, services, and experiences that make Medford unique.
Welcome to Historic Main Street in Medford, New Jersey. Dating back to 1853, our town's quaint charm and individuality have survived, adapted, and thrived through the years. Made up entirely of independently owned businesses, Main Street shines through the collective efforts of business owners working together to create a vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike.
We organize many events throughout the year and are always looking for new ways to bring people together and celebrate our community. You may have attended one of our signature events such as the Get Lucky on Main Street Chocolate Hunt, Sidewalk Sales, Dickens Festival, Haunted Ghost Walk, Farmers Market, Merry Main Street, or Chalk the Walk. Other beloved Main Street events, including the Art, Wine & Music Festival, Third Thursday Food Truck Nights, the Halloween Parade, and the Scarecrow Festival, are organized by neighboring community groups that we are proud to support and collaborate with whenever possible.
Like many downtown districts, Main Street experienced challenges in the early 2000s. At one point, there were more "For Rent" signs than business signs. In 2014, local business owners began working together under the umbrella of the Medford Business Association, and in 2023 the Main Street Merchants were re-established as an independent organization. Since then, our downtown has continued to grow and evolve, welcoming new businesses while strengthening the connections between existing ones.
Today, our Main Street family is a close-knit community of business owners who support one another and believe that everyone succeeds when we work together. As you shop, dine, and explore, we encourage you to ask business owners about their favorite neighboring shops and restaurants. You'll quickly discover that collaboration is one of Main Street's greatest strengths.
The Main Street Merchants have existed in one form or another for more than 40 years. After several years operating under the Medford Business Association, we became an independent nonprofit organization in 2021. This allows us to focus on the goals and initiatives that matter most to our members while pursuing grants, sponsorships, and partnerships that help strengthen Historic Medford Village. We remain grateful for our longstanding relationship with the Medford Business Association and look forward to continuing to work together for the benefit of our community.
